Refrigerator Yeast Rolls
Refrigerator yeast rolls are soft, fluffy, and buttery rolls perfect for breakfast or dinner. Their light texture and warm flavor make them a family favorite. Ideal for baking ahead and storing in the fridge, these versatile rolls can be enjoyed fresh or toasted, suitable for any casual or special meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, salt, dry yeast, water, and eggs in a small mixing bowl and beat for 3 minutes with a heavy-duty mixer at medium speed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, shortening, sugar, and water and mix thoroughly.
- Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and mix thoroughly until combined.
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place at 85°F for 3 hours or until doubled in bulk.
- Punch the dough down, then cover and refrigerate overnight.
- With lightly floured hands, shape the dough into 1½-inch balls and place them in three greased 9-inch cake pans.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place at 85°F for about 2 hours or until doubled in bulk.
- Bake at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast effectively. If you don't have Crisco, unsalted butter or vegetable oil can be used as a substitute. If your kitchen is cool, place the dough in a turned-off oven with the light on to create a warm environment for rising. This dough can also be shaped and frozen for later baking.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are perfect served warm alongside soups or stews, complementing dishes like Creamy Vegetable Medley. They can also be enjoyed with butter or honey for a sweet touch. For a hearty meal, pair them with Basic Macaroni And Cheese - Low-Fat or alongside roasted vegetables for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Refrigerator Yeast Rolls contains roughly 51 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute. You don't need to dissolve it in water first; simply mix it directly into the dry ingredients. However, the rising time may be slightly reduced, so keep an eye on the dough during the first rise.
What if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to old yeast or improper temperature. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the water temperature is between 100°F and 110°F for activation. If the dough still doesn't rise, consider a warmer spot or a longer rise time.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight, as directed. Alternatively, shape the rolls and freeze them before the second rise. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking as usual for fresh rolls anytime.
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).