Ah, rosemary—such an unassuming herb yet it can elevate a simple dinner roll into something extraordinary. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, reminiscent of a cozy autumn evening or perhaps a Sunday roast at grandma’s (if she were a Michelin-starred chef, that is). These soft, fluffy rolls, with their delicate hint of rosemary, bring a touch of warmth and comfort to any meal, and they’re so easy to make that you might just find yourself baking them weekly—or forgetting the main dish altogether!
Steps
- In a small bowl, mix the yeast with warm water and let it sit in a warm area until it turns creamy and foamy, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- Heat 1 cup of milk with butter in a saucepan over low heat until the butter melts, taking about 3 to 4 minutes, then remove from heat.
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine 2 cups flour, the yeast mixture, honey, salt, rosemary, and the milk mixture. Mix on low until the ingredients are well combined. Gradually add 1/2 cup flour, two tablespoons at a time, mixing after each addition until a firm dough forms that doesn’t stick to the bowl sides. Knead on medium speed until the dough is soft, elastic, and slightly sticky, about 6 minutes. Transfer to an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, roughly 1 1/2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Roll the dough onto a work surface into a rectangle about 1 inch thick and cut into 36 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by pinching the seams underneath to create a smooth top.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 teaspoon of milk.
- Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet in 3 rows of 12, ensuring they are close but not touching. Brush the tops with the egg mixture and sprinkle with sea salt. Let them rise in a warm place until almost doubled, about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the rolls are golden brown, approximately 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 package active dry yeast
- ¼ cup warm water (110 degrees F / 43 degrees C)
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary leaves
- ½ cup all-purpose flour, or as needed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon milk
- Coarse sea salt to taste
Nutritional Values
Total Nutrition Values for the Entire Recipe:
Calories: 2052 | Total Fat: 72g | Saturated Fat: 36g | Cholesterol: 324mg | Sodium: 2844mg | Total Carbohydrate: 288g | Dietary Fiber: N/A | Total Sugars: 36g | Protein: 36g | Calcium: 396mg | Iron: 36mg | Potassium: 936mg
FAQ
- Can I add more butter or eggs to the recipe?
- Yes, you can increase the amount of melted butter and add an egg or two if you prefer a richer roll. However, the original recipe is designed to be lighter, particularly because the rolls are often paired with rich holiday foods.
- How should I ensure the dough rises properly?
- Make sure to place the dough in a warm spot to let it rise effectively. It should double in size, which typically takes about 1.5 hours.
- Can I use different herbs instead of rosemary?
- Absolutely! You can substitute rosemary with other herbs such as garlic or any herb of your choice to suit your taste preferences.
- What can I do if my rolls are undercooked?
- If you’re worried about undercooking the rolls, you can use a thermometer to check their internal temperature. If needed, leave them in the oven for a few extra minutes to ensure they are fully baked.
- How can I store leftover rolls?
- Leftover rolls can be stored and reheated by placing them in an air fryer or oven on bake for a few minutes. This will help them regain their original texture and taste.
Tips
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure the rolls are fully cooked, use a kitchen thermometer to check the internal temperature. If needed, leave them in the oven for a few more minutes to achieve the perfect texture.
- Watch the Recipe Video: Before starting, consider watching a video tutorial for visual guidance on the process, especially if you’re unfamiliar with making dinner rolls.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as sesame seeds or poppy seeds, to add variety and personal flair to your rolls.
- Consider Dough Size: If you prefer larger rolls, shape the dough into bigger balls, reducing the total number of rolls. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
Equipment
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook – Essential for kneading the dough efficiently.
- Silicone Baking Mat – Useful as an alternative to parchment paper and provides a reusable option.
- Dough Thermometer – Handy for ensuring the rolls are cooked thoroughly.
