School Hot Rolls

Irresistible School Hot Rolls: A Recipe for Warm Memories

Step into the realm of nostalgia with our School Hot Rolls recipe—a delightful concoction that brings back memories of warm, fluffy rolls served straight from the oven. Whether you reminisce about school cafeteria lunches or simply crave the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread, these rolls are sure to transport you to a place of warmth and familiarity. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind crafting the perfect batch of School Hot Rolls, where every bite is a reminder of simpler times and cherished traditions.

Ingredients:

• 1 quart warm water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup powdered milk
• 1 cup oil
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 packages yeast
• 7-9 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, powdered milk, oil, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal-sized portions, shaping each portion into a roll.
7. Place the rolls on greased baking sheets, leaving some space between each roll to allow for rising.
8. Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• For a softer crust, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.
• Add a touch of flavor to your rolls by incorporating herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder into the dough.
• For a sweeter variation, sprinkle the tops of the rolls with cinnamon sugar before baking for a delightful treat.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

• While traditional School Hot Rolls are not suitable for a keto or low-carb diet, you can make adjustments to create a keto-friendly version of the recipe.
• Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content.
• Use a sugar substitute such as erythritol or stevia in place of the sugar to keep the recipe keto-friendly.
• Replace the powdered milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

In conclusion, School Hot Rolls are more than just a recipe—they’re a symbol of comfort, tradition, and the simple joys of homemade baking. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven with a pat of butter or used to make sandwiches for lunch, these rolls have a special place in the hearts of many. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a journey back to the days of school lunches and shared meals with loved ones. With each batch of School Hot Rolls, you’ll create new memories and carry on the legacy of this beloved recipe for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight? Yes, you can prepare the dough for School Hot Rolls ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and place it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the dough from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, shape into rolls, and proceed with the recipe as directed.
2. Can I freeze the rolls after baking? Yes, you can freeze School Hot Rolls after baking. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, thaw the rolls at room temperature or in the refrigerator, then warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. However, you may need to adjust the rising time accordingly, as instant yeast tends to rise faster.
4. What is the purpose of powdered milk in the recipe? Powdered milk adds richness and flavor to the rolls, resulting in a softer texture and more tender crumb. If you don’t have powdered milk on hand, you can substitute with an equal amount of regular milk or omit it from the recipe altogether.
5. How can I tell if the rolls are fully cooked? The rolls should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of a roll—if it comes out clean, the rolls are done.
6. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may produce denser rolls with a slightly nuttier flavor compared to all-purpose flour.
7. What is the best way to store leftover rolls? To keep leftover rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze leftover rolls for longer storage—simply wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.
8. Can I make smaller or larger rolls? Yes, you can adjust the size of the rolls to suit your preference. For smaller rolls, divide the dough into more portions and shape accordingly. For larger rolls, divide the dough into fewer portions and shape accordingly. Adjust the baking time accordingly based on the size of the rolls.
9. Can I add seeds or grains to the rolls for extra texture? Absolutely! Feel free to add seeds such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds, or grains such as oats or quinoa to the dough for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.
10. Can I make the rolls dairy-free? Yes, you can make dairy-free School Hot Rolls by using a dairy-free milk alternative such as almond milk or soy milk in place of the powdered milk. You can also use a dairy-free oil such as vegetable oil or coconut oil in place of the oil.