Name: Brown and Serve Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 to 9 cups all-purpose flour; 2 envelopes instant yeast ((4 ½ teaspoons)); ½ cup granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons fine sea salt; 3 to 4 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary ((optional)); 4 to 5 large garlic cloves ((minced)); 1 cup milk; 1 cup water; ½ cup unsalted butter

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through your kitchen. These Brown and Serve Rolls are your go-to solution for a delicious addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting a festive gathering, these rolls are sure to impress. With a soft interior and a golden-brown crust, they are perfect for slathering with butter or pairing with your favorite soup. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Brown and Serve Rolls stand out is their incredible versatility. You can infuse them with flavors like garlic and rosemary, making them a standout side dish. Unlike traditional rolls that require a lengthy rise time, this recipe uses instant yeast, allowing you to enjoy warm, fluffy rolls in a fraction of the time. Plus, they can be made ahead and simply baked right before serving, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Gather These Ingredients

To create these delightful rolls, make sure to gather the following ingredients:

8 to 9 cups all-purpose flour
2 envelopes instant yeast (4 ½ teaspoons)
½ cup granulated sugar
4 teaspoons fine sea salt
3 to 4 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary (optional)
4 to 5 large garlic cloves, minced
1 cup milk
1 cup water
½ cup unsalted butter

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start baking, gather the necessary equipment:

Large Mixing Bowl: For mixing your dough.
Stand Mixer (optional): Makes kneading easier.
Baking Sheet: For placing your rolls on.
Plastic Wrap: To cover your dough while it rises.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measures.

Build Brown and Serve Rolls Step by Step

Making Brown and Serve Rolls is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for perfectly fluffy rolls:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 envelopes of instant yeast, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 4 teaspoons of fine sea salt. Stir until well mixed.

Step 2: Heat the Liquid Ingredients

In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of water, and ½ cup of unsalted butter. Heat over medium until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm but not boiling.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm liquid into the dry mixture. Stir until just combined. If you’re adding garlic or rosemary, mix them in at this point.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Gradually add in more flour (up to 5 cups) until the dough is no longer sticky. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into equal pieces and shape them into rolls. Place them on a greased baking sheet.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls with plastic wrap and let them rise again in a warm place until they double in size, about 30-40 minutes.

Step 8: Pre-Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden on top. They should still be slightly underbaked as they will continue to cook when you finish them later.

Step 9: Cool and Store

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool. You can store them in an airtight container if you’re not baking them right away.

Step 10: Final Bake

When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) again and bake the rolls for an additional 10-15 minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked.

Make It Your Way

These Brown and Serve Rolls are incredibly adaptable. Here are some ideas to customize them:

For a sweeter roll, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough.
Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley for unique flavors.
Incorporate cheese by adding shredded cheddar or parmesan into the dough.
Top with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking for added texture.

Things That Go Wrong

Even the best bakers encounter challenges. Here are some common issues and how to avoid them:

Dough Won’t Rise: Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the liquid is warm, not hot.
Rolls Are Dense: This can happen if you add too much flour. Always measure carefully.
Burnt Bottoms: Make sure your oven is calibrated correctly and use a baking sheet with a light color.
Sticking Rolls: Grease your baking sheet well or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These Brown and Serve Rolls are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the dough ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before the first rise. Bake the rolls and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven until heated through.

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Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for creating the best Brown and Serve Rolls, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! From the comforting aroma to the satisfying taste, these rolls will surely become a staple in your home. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family – they’ll be amazed at your baking prowess!