Sunbeams (Rolls)
Sunbeams rolls are soft, buttery, and slightly sweet with a golden crust, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to those who love classic, comforting baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the yeast in 1/2 cup warm water to which 1 tablespoon of sugar has been added.
- Combine the rest of the sugar, milk, shortening, and salt in a large mixer bowl.
- Using slow speed, add the eggs to the mixture.
- Turn the mixer to a slightly slower speed (no. 1) and add 2 cups of flour and the yeast mixture.
- Increase the mixer to medium speed (no. 5) and beat for about 4 minutes.
- With a spoon, add as much of the remaining flour as can be stirred in without kneading.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in bulk in a warm place.
- Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured board and cut with a biscuit cutter.
- Fold the cut dough over as for Parker House rolls.
- Bake at 425°F until lightly browned, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the yeast activates properly, make sure the water is warm but not hot; around 110°F is ideal. If you don't have Crisco, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or vegetable oil. For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These Sunbeams are perfect as a side to your favorite main dishes, such as a hearty stew or roasted meats. They also pair beautifully with Cabbage Salad(Cole Slaw) for a refreshing contrast. Serve warm with butter or a drizzle of honey for a delightful treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sunbeams (Rolls) contains roughly 222 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 692mg per serving (30% 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 use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. Simply skip the step of dissolving it in warm water. Add it directly to the dry ingredients and mix with the wet ingredients as directed in the recipe.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size, which usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. You can test it by gently pressing your finger into the dough; if the indentation remains, it’s ready to be shaped and baked.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature and rise again before baking, making them a great option for gatherings.
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).