Refrigerator Rolls
Refrigerator rolls are a delightful and convenient bread option that offers a soft, buttery texture and a slightly sweet flavor. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals, these rolls can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when needed, making them an ideal choice for busy cooks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over shortening, sugar, and salt.
- Blend and cool the mixture.
- Add beaten eggs to the cooled mixture.
- Dissolve yeast in warm water and add to the mixture.
- Add flour and blend well.
- Cover the dough and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
- About 3 hours before using, roll out the dough and cut into shapes.
- Brush the rolls with melted butter.
- Place on a greased pan and allow to rise for 3 hours.
- Bake at 425°F for 12 to 14 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your refrigerator rolls, consider adding herbs or garlic powder to the dough. If you don’t have shortening, you can substitute with equal amounts of unsalted butter or margarine. For a slightly sweeter version, increase the sugar to 1 1/4 cups. Make sure to properly cool the boiling water mixture before adding eggs to prevent them from scrambling.
Serving Suggestions
These refrigerator rolls are perfect for serving alongside hearty dishes like beef stew or chicken pot pie. They also pair beautifully with Doris' Corn Bread, adding a delightful variety to your meal. Try spreading them with butter or your favorite jam for a tasty snack or breakfast option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Refrigerator Rolls contains roughly 341 calories, with 6g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 992mg per serving (43% 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 prepare the dough in advance and freeze it?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Shape the rolls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow to rise before baking.
What can I do if my rolls don’t rise properly?
If your rolls aren't rising, check the freshness of your yeast. If it’s expired, the dough may not rise. Additionally, ensure your warm water isn't too hot, as it can kill the yeast. Try creating a warm environment for the dough to rise, such as placing it in an oven with the light on.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! Incorporating shredded cheese or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough can add wonderful flavor. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it may affect the texture and rising of the rolls.
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).