There's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked pan rolls filling your kitchen. These homemade delights are perfect for any meal, from breakfast to dinner. Soft, fluffy, and buttery, these rolls will become a family favorite.
Some of the ingredients you might need to pick up from the supermarket include bread flour, which provides the necessary gluten structure for the rolls, and rapid rise yeast, which helps the dough rise faster. Shortening and butter give the rolls their rich flavor and tender texture.
Ingredients For Homemade Pan Rolls
bread flour: Essential for the structure and texture of the rolls. It has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour.
white sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to activate the yeast.
shortening: Adds tenderness and moisture to the rolls.
salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.
rapid rise yeast: Speeds up the rising process of the dough.
warm water: Activates the yeast and combines the ingredients.
warm milk: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
butter: Brushed on top to add flavor and a golden color to the rolls.
One reader, Adele Earle says:
These homemade pan rolls are fantastic! They turned out fluffy and golden brown, with a perfect balance of sweetness. The recipe was easy to follow, and the rolls were a hit at dinner. Will definitely make these again!
Key Techniques for Perfect Homemade Pan Rolls
Yes.
How to knead dough: Kneading involves pressing and folding the dough repeatedly to develop gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself and give it a quarter turn. Repeat this process for about 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
How to let dough rise: Allowing dough to rise involves placing it in a warm, draft-free environment so the yeast can ferment and produce gas, which makes the dough expand. Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out and let it sit until it has doubled in size.
How to form dough into rounds: To form dough into rounds, take each piece of dough and pull the edges towards the center, pinching them together. Turn the dough over so the seam is on the bottom and gently roll it into a smooth ball using your hands.
How to brush with melted butter: Melt the butter in a microwave or on the stovetop. Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the surface of the dough with the melted butter, which helps to create a golden, flavorful crust.
How To Make Homemade Pan Rolls
Here’s a straightforward recipe for pillow-soft, buttery pan rolls that you can make right at the comfort of your kitchen!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3¾cupsbread flour,divided
- ¼cupwhite sugar
- ¼cupshortening
- 1tspsalt
- ¼ozrapid rise yeast,(1 package)
- ½cupwarm water,(120 to 130 degrees F)
- ½cupwarm milk
- 1egg
- 2tbspbutter,melted
Instructions
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In a large bowl, stir together 2 cups of flour, sugar, shortening, salt, and yeast. Add water, milk, and egg. Beat with electric mixer on low speed for about 1 minute, scraping bowl frequently.
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Add the remaining flour, ¼ cup at a time, until the dough comes together.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl and turn greased side up. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled. The dough is ready if indention remains when touched.
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Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide in half; cut each half into 24 pieces. Form the pieces into rounds. Place the rolls close together in two lightly greased 9-inch round cake pans. Brush with melted butter. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled. Cover the rolls with a damp cloth and let rise for about 40 minutes until doubled in volume.
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Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
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Bake in preheated oven for about 12 to 18 minutes, until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Calories: 59.66kcal
- Fat: 1.90g
- Saturated Fat: 0.67g
- Trans Fat: 0.16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.64g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.42g
- Carbohydrates: 8.99g
- Fiber: 0.30g
- Sugar: 1.20g
- Protein: 1.54g
- Cholesterol: 4.86mg
- Sodium: 45.25mg
- Calcium: 5.29mg
- Potassium: 16.88mg
- Iron: 0.49mg
- Vitamin A: 6.65µg
- Vitamin C: 0.00mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Homemade Pan Rolls
When kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push it away from you, then fold it back over itself and give it a quarter turn. This helps develop the gluten, giving the rolls their structure and chewiness. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour to your hands and the surface, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the rolls dense.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pan Rolls at Home
Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This reduces prep time and ensures a smoother process.
Use a stand mixer: Instead of kneading by hand, use a stand mixer with a dough hook to save time and effort.
Warm environment: Speed up the rising process by placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area, like an oven with the light on.
Batch baking: Double the recipe and freeze half of the rolls for future use. This saves time on future baking days.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while the dough is rising to ensure it's ready when you are.
Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Pan Rolls Recipe
bread flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used in place of bread flour, though the texture may be slightly less chewy due to the lower protein content.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener, though you may need to reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly to compensate for the added moisture.
shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter provides a rich flavor and can be used in place of shortening, though it may result in a slightly denser roll.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in place of regular salt and may add a slightly different flavor profile.
rapid rise yeast - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast can be used, but it needs to be dissolved in warm water before adding to the dough, and the rise time may be longer.
warm water - Substitute with warm milk: Using warm milk instead of water can add richness and tenderness to the dough.
warm milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and can make the rolls more tender.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg, which is a good option for a vegan substitute.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in place of butter, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Presenting Your Freshly Baked Pan Rolls
Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the pan rolls in a refined manner by serving smaller, bite-sized portions. This allows the delicate texture and flavor to shine through without overwhelming the palate.
Use decoration: Garnish the pan rolls with a light sprinkle of sea salt and a few sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. This adds a touch of elegance and a burst of color to the presentation.
Create a focal point: Arrange the pan rolls in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate, with a small bowl of whipped butter or herb-infused olive oil in the center. This creates a visually appealing focal point that draws attention to the dish.
Use high-quality ingredients: Highlight the use of premium butter and organic flour in the recipe. Mentioning these high-quality ingredients elevates the perceived value and taste of the pan rolls.
Add a touch of luxury: Drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the pan rolls just before serving. The rich aroma and flavor of the truffle oil add a luxurious touch that is sure to impress culinary professionals.
Incorporate texture: Serve the pan rolls with a side of crunchy sea salt butter or honey butter. The contrasting textures of the smooth rolls and the crunchy or creamy butter enhance the overall dining experience.
Highlight the baking process: Present the pan rolls on a rustic wooden board, accompanied by a small dish of flaky sea salt and a butter knife. This presentation emphasizes the artisanal quality and craftsmanship involved in making the rolls.
Use elegant serving ware: Serve the pan rolls on fine china or a sleek, modern plate. The choice of serving ware can significantly impact the overall presentation and elevate the dining experience.
Add a pop of color: Place a few edible flower petals or a small microgreens salad on the plate alongside the pan rolls. The vibrant colors add visual interest and a touch of sophistication.
Provide a sensory experience: Serve the pan rolls warm, straight from the oven, with a small dish of melted butter for dipping. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the warmth of the rolls create an inviting and memorable sensory experience.
Essential Tools for Making Homemade Pan Rolls
Large bowl: Used for mixing the initial ingredients together.
Electric mixer: Helps to beat the mixture on low speed for about 1 minute.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, shortening, water, and milk.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the salt and yeast.
Spatula: Useful for scraping the bowl frequently while mixing.
Floured surface: Needed for kneading the dough and shaping it into rolls.
Greased bowl: Used to place the dough for rising, ensuring it doesn't stick.
Damp cloth: Covers the dough while it rises to prevent it from drying out.
9-inch round cake pans: Used to place the rolls close together for baking.
Pastry brush: For brushing the rolls with melted butter.
Oven: Preheated to 400 degrees F for baking the rolls.
Cooling rack: Allows the rolls to cool evenly after baking.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Pan Rolls
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for homemade pan rolls:
- Allow the pan rolls to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or developing condensation.
- To store at room temperature:
- Place the cooled rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To maintain freshness, you can place a piece of bread in the container with the rolls to absorb excess moisture.
- To refrigerate:
- Place the cooled rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- When ready to serve, let the rolls come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven or microwave.
- To freeze:
- Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring a tight seal.
- Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw and reheat frozen rolls:
- Remove the desired number of rolls from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the thawed rolls on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds on high power until warm.
How To Reheat Leftover Pan Rolls
The best way to reheat leftover homemade pan rolls is to wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy. This method helps to retain the rolls' moisture and softness while also restoring some of their original texture.
Another option is to microwave the rolls, but this can result in a softer, less appealing texture. To minimize this effect, place the rolls on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 15-20 seconds per roll, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the rolls to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a toaster oven, you can also reheat the rolls using this appliance. Place the rolls on the toaster oven tray and heat them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also use a skillet or griddle on the stovetop. Heat the skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly butter the surface. Place the rolls on the skillet and heat them for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.
If you want to add a touch of extra flavor and moisture to your reheated rolls, you can brush them with a little melted butter or olive oil before reheating them in the oven or toaster oven. This will help to enhance their taste and texture, making them even more delicious than when they were first baked.
Interesting Fact About Pan Rolls
A random fact about this homemade pan rolls recipe is that using rapid rise yeast significantly reduces the rising time compared to traditional yeast, making the dough ready for baking much faster.
Is Making Pan Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?
This homemade pan rolls recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like bread flour, sugar, and yeast are inexpensive and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of shortening and butter adds a rich flavor without significantly increasing the cost. For a household of 4 people, the approximate cost is around $5-$7 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Are Homemade Pan Rolls Healthy or Unhealthy?
The homemade pan rolls recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe contains a significant amount of refined carbohydrates in the form of bread flour and sugar, which can contribute to blood sugar spikes and weight gain if consumed in excess. Additionally, the use of shortening and butter adds saturated fats to the rolls, which can increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in large quantities.
However, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier:
- Replace a portion of the bread flour with whole wheat flour or other whole grain flours to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Use a healthier fat source, such as olive oil or coconut oil, instead of shortening
- Incorporate additional ingredients like flaxseed meal, chia seeds, or nuts to boost the protein and healthy fat content
- Serve the rolls with nutrient-dense toppings or spreads, such as mashed avocado, hummus, or nut butter, to make them more satiating and balanced
By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutritious version of these homemade pan rolls that still satisfies your cravings for a warm, comforting bread side dish. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying these rolls as part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats is the best approach to overall health and wellbeing.
Editor's Opinion: Homemade Pan Rolls Recipe Review
This homemade pan rolls recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and tradition. The use of bread flour ensures a sturdy yet tender crumb, while the combination of warm milk and water activates the rapid rise yeast efficiently. The inclusion of shortening adds a subtle richness, and the egg contributes to a soft, airy texture. Kneading the dough for a full 8 minutes develops the gluten, resulting in a beautifully elastic dough. The double rise process guarantees a light, fluffy roll, and the final brush of melted butter adds a golden, flavorful finish. Perfect for any meal, these rolls are a timeless classic.
Enhance Your Homemade Pan Rolls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try Besides Homemade Pan Rolls
Why trust this Homemade Pan Rolls Recipe:
This homemade pan rolls recipe is a tried-and-true method that guarantees soft, fluffy rolls every time. Using bread flour ensures a perfect texture, while the combination of warm milk and butter adds a rich, comforting flavor. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust this recipe for its balance of simplicity and delicious results.
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