Rice Refrigerator Rolls

Prep: 180 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Rice Refrigerator Rolls are soft, flavorful bread rolls infused with cooked rice, offering a unique texture and subtle sweetness. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side, they appeal to bread lovers seeking a homemade treat with a tender crumb and comforting aroma.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1 package (1/4 oz.) dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm water
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 2 eggs
  • 5 to 6 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Scald the milk, then stir in sugar, salt, and shortening.
  2. Cool the mixture to lukewarm temperature.
  3. Dissolve the dry yeast in warm water.
  4. Add the cooked rice to the milk mixture.
  5. Incorporate the yeast mixture and eggs into the rice and milk.
  6. Add about half of the flour and stir until well combined.
  7. Gradually add enough of the remaining flour to make a very stiff dough that leaves the sides of the bowl.
  8. Knead the dough until smooth.
  9. Place the kneaded dough in a large greased bowl.
  10. Grease the top of the dough.
  11. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
  12. Remove the dough from the refrigerator 2 to 3 hours before serving and shape into rolls.
  13. Let the shaped rolls rise, then bake at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of skim. If you don't have shortening, butter can be a suitable substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. Ensure that your water is warm but not hot when dissolving the yeast, as too high a temperature can kill the yeast. If you want to add some herbs or spices, garlic powder or Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Rice Refrigerator Rolls are perfect served warm with butter as a side to soups or salads. They pair beautifully with Pecan Or Coconut Pie for a delightful contrast in flavors. For a more filling meal, serve alongside a hearty stew or casserole. You can also slice them to make mini sandwiches or serve them with a variety of spreads.

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 sealed 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. This will help to retain their softness and freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Rice Refrigerator Rolls contains roughly 266 calories, with 7g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 919mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).

266 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.5g 13% DV
Total Fat 4.5g 6% DV
Carbs 50.7g 18% DV
Fiber 2.5g 9% DV
Sugar 9.4g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 919.1mg 40% DV
Potassium 319.7mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 27mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 44.2mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 14mg 16% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 125mg 10% DV
Iron 2.8mg 16% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it may alter the texture and flavor slightly. Make sure the brown rice is fully cooked and cooled before adding it to the mixture. It might also add a nuttier flavor to the rolls.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the rolls are ready to be taken out of the oven.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and freeze it?

Absolutely! After kneading, you can freeze the dough. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, shape into rolls, and let it rise before baking.

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).

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