Welcome to our baking section! Today, we’re sharing a simple and delightful recipe for Homemade Bread Rolls. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 570g wheat flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 8g dry yeast
- 360ml warm water
- 1 egg + 1 egg white
- 20ml vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour and salt. Mix well.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Add the activated yeast mixture, the egg, egg white, and vegetable oil. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and a sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
- Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
- Shape the Rolls: Divide the dough into equal portions (about 12-15 pieces, depending on the size you prefer). Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure there is enough space between each roll for them to expand.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Egg Wash and Sesame Seeds: In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg white. Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg white and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
- Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool the Rolls: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Warm: Serve the homemade bread rolls warm, with butter or your favorite spread. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Yeast Activation: Make sure the water is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly. Hot water can kill the yeast, while cold water won’t activate it.
- Kneading: Proper kneading is essential for developing the gluten in the dough, which gives the rolls their structure and texture.
- Rising: Ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free place. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the bowl in a turned-off oven with the oven light on for gentle warmth.
Variations
Herb and Garlic Rolls
Add 1 tsp of dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) and 1-2 minced garlic cloves to the dough for extra flavor.
Cheese Rolls
Mix 1/2 cup of grated cheese into the dough or sprinkle cheese on top of the rolls before baking.
Sweet Rolls
Increase the sugar to 3 tbsp and add 1 tsp of vanilla extract to the dough. Brush the rolls with a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) after baking for a sweet glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the wheat flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Note that the texture may be slightly denser.
How do I store leftover rolls?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step and mix the yeast directly with the dry ingredients.
How can I make the rolls fluffier?
Ensure the dough is well-kneaded and allow sufficient rising time for a fluffy texture. You can also add 1-2 tablespoons of milk powder to the dough for extra softness.
These Homemade Bread Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal. With their soft, fluffy texture and delicious flavor, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing these rolls with your loved ones!
