Name: Brown and Serve Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 8 to 9 cups all-purpose flour (adjust as needed for dough consistency); 2 envelopes instant yeast ((4 1/2 teaspoons)); 1/2 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; 1/2 cup unsalted butter

There’s something undeniably comforting about fresh bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s warm, soft, and just waiting to be slathered with butter. Enter Brown and Serve Rolls, those delightful little bites that come together with ease and make any meal feel special. Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or just a cozy night in, these rolls are a must-try. With a hint of garlic and rosemary, they add a gourmet touch to your table without demanding too much time or effort. Let’s dive into how you can create these golden-brown beauties in your very own kitchen.

Top Reasons to Make Brown and Serve Rolls

Convenience: Prepare them ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
Versatility: Perfect alongside soups, salads, or as an appetizer with dips.
Customization: Add your favorite herbs or spices to make them uniquely yours.
Impressive Presentation: Homemade rolls are always a hit and will have your guests raving.
Affordable: Made with basic pantry staples, they’re budget-friendly and delicious.

Gather These Ingredients

8 to 9 cups all-purpose flour: The base for our rolls; adjust as needed for dough consistency.
2 envelopes instant yeast (4 1/2 teaspoons): This helps your rolls rise to fluffy perfection.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
4 teaspoons fine sea salt: Essential for enhancing the taste of the rolls.
3 to 4 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary (optional): For a fragrant twist; feel free to substitute with other herbs.
4 to 5 large garlic cloves, minced: Perfectly pairs with the rosemary for added flavor.
1 cup milk: Adds richness and helps in achieving a soft texture.
1 cup water: Essential for activating the yeast and hydrating the dough.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: A key ingredient that contributes to the rolls’ tenderness.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Large mixing bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing the dough.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.
Rolling pin: To shape your rolls before baking.
Baking sheets: For placing your rolls while they bake. Line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises.
Oven: Essential for baking those lovely rolls to golden perfection.

Cooking Brown and Serve Rolls: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well to combine. In a separate bowl, heat the milk and water together until warm (not boiling). Add the butter to the warm liquid, allowing it to melt.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until everything is combined. If the dough seems too wet, gradually add more flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using, incorporate the minced garlic and rosemary during the kneading process for even distribution.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Place the rolls on a baking sheet, leaving space between them for further rising.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes until they have puffed up.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.

Make It Your Way

Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley instead of rosemary.
Cheese: Add shredded cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.
Sweet Rolls: Incorporate cinnamon and sugar for a sweet breakfast option.
Stuffed Rolls: Fill with your favorite fillings like spinach and feta or ham and cheese.

Learn from These Mistakes

Too Much Flour: Adding too much flour can make your rolls dense. Add flour gradually until the dough is just right.
Under-kneading: If the dough isn’t kneaded enough, the rolls may not rise properly. Ensure you knead until smooth.
Over-proofing: Letting the dough rise too long can cause it to collapse. Keep an eye on it during the rising stage.
Oven Temperature: Make sure to preheat your oven for even baking. An unheated oven can lead to unevenly baked rolls.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Once your Brown and Serve Rolls are baked, you can keep them fresh by following these tips:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: Freeze the rolls in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Ask & Learn

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture. You might need to add a bit more liquid to keep the dough from being too dry.

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top. You can also tap the bottom; if it sounds hollow, they are done.

What can I serve with Brown and Serve Rolls?

They pair beautifully with soups, stews, salads, or even as a side to a main dish like roasted chicken or beef.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape the rolls, and refrigerate them overnight. Just let them come to room temperature before the second rise and baking.

Weekend Projects

Sally’s Baking Addiction – Explore more delicious bread recipes.
Pinch of Yum – Discover unique flavor combinations for your rolls.
Minimalist Baker – Try out simple recipes with fewer ingredients.
King Arthur Baking – Find tips and tricks for perfecting your baking skills.

Wrap-Up

Making Brown and Serve Rolls is a delightful way to bring warmth and comfort to your dining experience. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you’ll create rolls that are not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying to make. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore new flavors and ingredients, these rolls are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy fresh, homemade rolls that will elevate any meal!