Refrigerated Dinner Rolls
Soft, fluffy refrigerated dinner rolls with a hint of sweetness and buttery flavor, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, offering convenience and homemade taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in lukewarm water; set aside.
- Cream shortening and sugar until slightly creamy.
- Pour boiling water into a cup to dissolve all the shortening and add to the creamed mixture.
- Add lightly beaten eggs and stir, then add dissolved yeast.
- Add flour, 3 cups at a time.
- Stir until all flour is wet; do not try to remove the lumps.
- Cover with waxed paper and aluminum foil and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use room temperature ingredients, especially the eggs and water. If you don't have Crisco, you can substitute with butter or margarine for a richer flavor. Ensure the yeast is fresh for optimal rise. If you prefer a slightly sweeter roll, consider adding a touch more sugar, but be cautious not to overpower the dough's natural flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are perfect for any meal, especially alongside Hearty Holiday Soup or as a base for sandwiches. For a festive touch, serve them warm with Maple Butter Creams as a delightful butter alternative. They also pair wonderfully with a variety of spreads, from simple butter to flavored options like garlic herb or honey.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they remain soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Refrigerated Dinner Rolls contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 539mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, simply shape and let them rise before baking for fresh rolls at mealtime.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that the water used to dissolve it is warm (not hot). You can also try placing the dough in a warmer environment, like a turned-off oven with the light on, to encourage rising.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser rolls. To maintain a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. This will add some nutritional benefits while still keeping the rolls soft and fluffy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).