Working Girl Rolls
Working Girl Rolls are soft, buttery yeast rolls with a slight sweetness, perfect for breakfast or dinner. Their fluffy texture and golden crust make them a versatile addition to any meal, appealing to bread lovers and those seeking homemade comfort food. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shortening, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Pour boiling water over the mixture.
- Add beaten eggs and dissolved yeast mixture; mix into the flour.
- Place the dough in the refrigerator for 4 hours.
- To make rolls, place the dough in greased pans.
- Let the rolls rise for 3 hours.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and active by proofing it in lukewarm water before adding it to the mixture. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with butter or margarine for a richer flavor. Additionally, letting the dough rest in the refrigerator allows for better flavor development and texture, similar to techniques used in soft gingerbread cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Working Girl Rolls are perfect served warm with butter or as a side to hearty soups and stews. They pair beautifully with My Best Rhubarb Pie for a delightful meal. Consider serving them at brunch alongside fresh fruit or as a base for sliders at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Working Girl Rolls contains roughly 310 calories, with 5g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 891mg per serving (39% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it rise as directed before shaping and baking your rolls.
What should I do if my rolls didn't rise properly?
If your rolls didn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date and proof it in warm water. If the dough feels too dense, try to knead it a bit longer to incorporate more air.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or spices such as garlic powder can enhance the flavor of the rolls. Just mix them in when combining the wet ingredients for a delicious twist.
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).