Introduction:
In the symphony of dining, where flavors dance and aromas sing, there exists a humble masterpiece that holds a special place on every table – freshly baked dinner rolls. These little pillows of delight have the power to transform any meal into a cherished memory, drawing everyone in with their soft texture and inviting aroma. Join me on a culinary journey as we embark on crafting these delectable rolls from scratch, turning our kitchen into a bakery of warmth and deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
Step by Step:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water (about 110°F/43°C) and 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to go.
- Warm the Milk and Butter: In a saucepan, gently warm the milk and butter over low heat until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of the flour, the remaining sugar, and the salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, warm milk mixture, and the eggs. Mix until it comes together into a sticky dough.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a damp cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
Conclusion:
As you pull these golden treasures from the oven, the entire house fills with the intoxicating scent of freshly baked bread. These dinner rolls, with their tender interior and slightly crisp exterior, are a testament to the joy of homemade goodness. Serve them warm, perhaps with a pat of butter, and watch as they disappear in moments, leaving behind smiles and the promise of another batch soon to be baked. In the kitchen, as in life, it’s these simple moments that create the most cherished memories, and these dinner rolls are the perfect companions on that heartwarming journey.
