How To Make Parker House Rolls

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How To Make Parker House Rolls

How to Make Parker House Rolls: A Guide to Mouthwatering Homemade Bread

If you’re a bread lover like me, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Parker House rolls wafting through your kitchen. These soft and buttery rolls have become a classic American bread, originating from the 19th-century Parker House Hotel in Boston. And the best part is, you can easily recreate them in your own home! In this guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making delectable Parker House rolls that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/4 cups warm milk
  • 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. Dissolve the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter.
  3. Knead the dough: Mix everything together until a rough dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and begin kneading for about 5-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape the rolls: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a 1/2 inch thick rectangle and cut it into small rectangular pieces.
  6. Fold and shape: Brush each rectangle with melted butter and then fold it in half. Place the folded rolls onto a greased baking pan, leaving a bit of space between each roll.
  7. Second rise: Cover the rolls with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes until they’re puffy and expanded.
  8. Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  9. Enjoy the heavenly aroma: Remove the rolls from the oven, brush them with melted butter for an extra touch of richness, and let them cool slightly before digging in.

Now that you know the secret behind making tantalizing Parker House rolls, you can confidently serve them at any gathering or enjoy them as a delightful accompaniment to your meals. With practice, you’ll soon become a master at baking these heavenly bread rolls that will have everyone reaching for seconds. So, put on your apron and get ready to create a batch of warm, fluffy, and delicious Parker House rolls that will elevate your culinary skills to new heights!

Share your thoughts and tips on making the perfect Parker House Rolls in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Join the discussion and let us know how your batch of these classic dinner rolls turned out!
FAQ:
How long does it take to make Parker House Rolls?
The total time required to make Parker House Rolls is approximately 3 hours, including the rising and baking time. However, the hands-on preparation time is only around 30 minutes.
Can I make Parker House Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Parker House Rolls ahead of time. Once the rolls are shaped and placed on the baking sheet, you can cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow the rolls to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed in the recipe.
Can I freeze Parker House Rolls?
Absolutely! Parker House Rolls freeze very well. After they have cooled completely, place the rolls in an airtight freezer bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature or warm them in a toaster oven.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
While you can substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, using a 100% whole wheat flour may result in a denser texture. For a lighter and fluffier roll, it is recommended to use a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, with a larger proportion of all-purpose flour.
What is the best way to shape Parker House Rolls?
To shape Parker House Rolls, start by rolling the dough into a rectangle. Then, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips, about 2 inches wide. Fold each strip in half, lengthwise, and press lightly to seal. Finally, place the folded strip on a baking sheet, with the folded side facing down, and shape it into a slight curve, resembling a half-moon shape.

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