Amish Dinner Rolls Recipe
If you are searching for the perfect soft, fluffy bread to accompany any meal or gather your loved ones around the table, look no further than Amish Dinner Rolls. These tender little rolls have a rich history wrapped in warmth and simplicity, offering a buttery, slightly sweet flavor that melts in your mouth. Amish Dinner Rolls are a staple in many homes because of their irresistibly soft texture and just-right crust, making every bite feel like a gentle hug from the oven. They are surprisingly easy to make at home, and once you taste them fresh from the oven, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed dinner without them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Amish Dinner Rolls is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something magical. Each item plays a vital role in delivering that classic soft crumb and rich flavor you’ll adore.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough that provides structure and the perfect chewiness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the buttery and yeasty flavors.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast: The magical agent that helps the dough rise and get delightfully airy.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup whole milk (warmed to about 100°F): Adds richness and helps activate the yeast.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Provides tender softness and buttery flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Enriches the dough for a tender crumb and lovely golden color.
How to Make Amish Dinner Rolls
Step 1: Warm the Milk
Start by gently warming the milk to about 100°F, making sure it’s warm to the touch but never boiling. This warmth is crucial to activate the yeast properly without killing it, setting the foundation for perfectly risen rolls.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
Combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and alive. This frothiness is your yeast waking up and getting ready to do its rising magic.
Step 3: Add Butter and Eggs
Mix in the melted butter and eggs into the yeast mixture, blending well. These ingredients enrich the dough with moisture and flavor, contributing to the tender, soft texture that Amish Dinner Rolls are known for.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Form Dough
Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms. The slow addition of flour helps you get the perfect consistency—soft yet easy to handle.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the rolls their delightful chew and structure.
Step 6: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This first rise builds volume and flavor.
Step 7: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a tight ball and arrange them about an inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they have room to expand.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise ensures a fluffy, light interior when baked.
Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the rolls for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The aroma during baking is enough to make your mouth water.
Step 10: Final Touches
As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush the tops with melted butter to add a glossy finish and extra flavor boost. It’s the perfect finishing touch to these dreamy rolls.
How to Serve Amish Dinner Rolls
Garnishes
Amish Dinner Rolls are heavenly on their own, but adding a dab of homemade honey butter or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can take them to the next level. You could also serve them with a side of sea salt flakes or garlic butter for a savory touch.
Side Dishes
These rolls shine alongside hearty soups, stews, or roasted meats because their soft texture is ideal for soaking up every bit of rich sauce or gravy. Think of classic mashed potatoes, buttered green beans, or glazed carrots to create a memorable comfort-food spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice open a warm Amish Dinner Roll and fill it with ham and cheese for mini sliders. You could also set them on a breadboard with an assortment of cheeses, jams, and spreads to turn them into an inviting appetizer or party snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store leftover rolls in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for about 2 to 3 days—perfect for snacking or quick breakfast fixes.
Freezing
Amish Dinner Rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their freshness, making them perfect for planning ahead or special occasions.
Reheating
Warm frozen or leftover rolls in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15 to 20 seconds. Either method will revive their soft, fluffy softness and make them taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for Amish Dinner Rolls?
Yes, you can substitute bread flour, which has a higher protein content. This will give your rolls a chewier texture, which some people love, but the traditional soft crumb with all-purpose flour is more typical for Amish Dinner Rolls.
How do I know if my yeast is still active?
The frothy foam that appears after mixing yeast with warm milk and sugar is a clear sign that your yeast is alive and kicking. If no bubbles or froth form after 10 minutes, it’s best to use fresh yeast for your rolls.
Can I make Amish Dinner Rolls without eggs?
Eggs contribute to the softness and richness of these rolls, but you can try a substitute like applesauce or yogurt in the same quantity. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Why do my Amish Dinner Rolls turn out dense?
If your rolls are dense, it may be due to under-kneading, not enough rising time, or using water that was too hot and killed the yeast. Be sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic and allow for proper rising.
Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding finely chopped herbs like rosemary or shredded cheese can give your Amish Dinner Rolls a unique twist. Just fold them into the dough during the mixing step for an extra burst of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Amish Dinner Rolls are more than just bread; they are a warm, comforting tradition that brings people together. Once you make these soft, buttery rolls yourself, you’ll understand why they have such a special place at any dining table. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and treat your loved ones to a batch of warm, fresh Amish Dinner Rolls—you’ll be creating happiness by the dozen!
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Amish Dinner Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These soft and fluffy Amish Dinner Rolls are a classic homemade bread perfect for any meal. Made with simple ingredients like flour, milk, butter, and eggs, these rolls have a tender crumb and a slightly sweet flavor. They are easy to prepare and ideal for family dinners, holidays, or whenever you crave warm, homemade bread.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk (Warmed to about 100°F / 38°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (Melted)
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Warm the milk: Warm the milk in a small saucepan over low heat until it reaches about 100°F (38°C). Avoid boiling to prevent killing the yeast.
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Add butter and eggs: Stir in the melted butter and eggs into the yeast mixture, mixing well with a whisk or wooden spoon to combine all the wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Mix in dry ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it by hand for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop the gluten structure.
- First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and set it in a warm place. Allow it to rise for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Shape the rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing each roll about 1 inch apart.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat the oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top.
- Finish with butter: Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter to add flavor and a glossy finish. Serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure the milk is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
- Use fresh yeast for best results; expired yeast may not rise well.
- For softer rolls, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with bread flour.
- Allow the rolls to cool slightly before slicing to prevent tearing.
- You can freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months; reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (approx. 60g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Amish dinner rolls, soft rolls, homemade bread, yeast rolls, easy bread recipe
