Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, buttery roll that transports you straight to grandma's kitchen - a heavenly experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy! These Parker House Rolls are more than just bread; they're a nostalgic journey of comfort, love, and culinary tradition that have been perfected over generations. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver soft, golden-brown rolls that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 2 hrs
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 rolls
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 1/2 cups milk, warm
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of instant yeast. Whisk together until the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, warm 1 1/2 cups of milk until it is just warm to the touch (about 110°F or 43°C). Be careful not to overheat the milk as it can kill the yeast.
- Add 1/4 cup of melted butter to the warm milk and stir until well combined.
- Pour the milk and butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Form the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning the dough to coat it lightly with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is known as the first rise.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it back to a floured surface.
- Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by rolling it between your palms.
- Place the dough balls into a greased baking dish, arranging them so they are close together but not touching. This will help them rise together during baking.
- Cover the baking dish with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow the rolls to rise again in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching each other.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the rolls are rising for the second time.
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and brush the tops with additional melted butter for a rich flavor and shine.
- Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Grandma's Parker House Rolls warm with butter or your favorite spread!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your milk is warm (around 110°F), not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading Matters: Take your time kneading the dough to develop gluten, which gives rolls their signature soft texture.
- Rising Environment: Find a warm, draft-free spot for dough rising - near a preheating oven or in a slightly warm room works perfectly.
- Don't Overcrowd: When placing rolls in the baking dish, leave just enough space for them to expand and touch during the second rise.
- Butter Brush: The final butter brush isn't just for looks - it adds incredible flavor and that irresistible golden sheen.
- Fresh is Best: These rolls are most delicious served warm, straight from the oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
