Refrigerator (Potato) Rolls
Refrigerator potato rolls are soft, fluffy bread rolls infused with mashed potatoes, perfect for breakfast, dinner, or special occasions, offering a tender crumb and subtle flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the Crisco, sugar, and mashed potatoes together until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the cooled potato water from the cooking process.
- Add the dissolved yeast mixture and stir well to combine.
- Cover the mixture with a damp cloth and let stand for one hour to ferment.
- After fermentation, add 5 to 7 cups of all-purpose flour and salt, stirring well, adding flour gradually until the dough is stiff.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead thoroughly until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a covered container and refrigerate.
- When ready to bake, shape the dough into rolls as needed.
- Place the shaped rolls in a well-greased pan and let rise until doubled in size.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half all-purpose flour and half bread flour. If you don't have Crisco, butter or margarine can be used as a substitute. Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising. For an extra flavor boost, try adding herbs or garlic powder to the dough. Always keep your dough covered to prevent it from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls make an excellent side for hearty meals and pair beautifully with Artichoke, Green Chile Dip. Serve them warm with butter, or use them for sandwiches. They can also be enjoyed with soups and stews, making them a versatile addition to your meal. For a sweet twist, try serving with honey or jam.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in aluminum foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 10-15 seconds, but this may alter their texture slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Refrigerator (Potato) Rolls contains roughly 540 calories, with 8g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and potassium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1033mg per serving (45% 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 freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after kneading. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to rise before shaping.
What if my rolls don’t rise?
If your rolls do not rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the water used for dissolving it is not too hot or too cold. If the dough is too cold, allow it to sit in a warm place to encourage rising.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices such as garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the flavor of your rolls. Start with a teaspoon of your chosen herb or spice and adjust to your taste.
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).