Oh, let me tell you about Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls! These little clouds of goodness are the stuff of legends in my family. Seriously, every time I make them, they vanish faster than you can say “dinner is served!” Soft, fluffy, and just a tad sweet, they’re the perfect companion to any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering. I can still hear my Aunt Shirley’s laughter as she whipped them up in her cozy kitchen, and trust me, the aroma will have everyone flocking to the table! Once you sink your teeth into one of these delightful rolls, you’ll understand why they’re so beloved. So, let’s dive into this recipe and bring a piece of Aunt Shirley’s kitchen into your home with her famous homemade dinner rolls!
Ingredients for Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating rolls that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe!
- 4 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base for our rolls, giving them that lovely structure.
- 1 packet active dry yeast – Make sure it’s fresh! This is what makes your rolls rise and become fluffy.
- 1/4 cup sugar – Just a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the taste; don’t skip it!
- 1 cup warm milk – This helps activate the yeast and makes the rolls delightfully soft.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and a lovely buttery flavor to the rolls.
- 2 large eggs – These help bind everything together and add moisture.
How to Prepare Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started! Making Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls is a delightful journey, and I promise, it’s worth every moment. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be well on your way to baking up some fluffy, golden goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start with the yeast: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk and 1 packet of active dry yeast. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbly. This is how you know your yeast is alive and kicking—don’t skip this step!
- Add the wet ingredients: Once your yeast is ready, stir in 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 2 large eggs. Mix until everything is well combined. You’ll love the smell as this all comes together!
- Incorporate the flour: Gradually add in 4 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing it in with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. Don’t worry if it seems a bit messy; that’s perfectly normal!
- Knead the dough: Dust a clean surface with flour and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Trust me, this is a bit of a workout, but it’s so satisfying to feel the dough transform!
- Let it rise: Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. You want it to double in size—this is where the magic happens!
- Punch it down: Once your dough has risen beautifully, give it a gentle punch to deflate it. Then, turn it out onto a floured surface again and shape it into rolls. I usually make about 12 rolls, but you can make them smaller or larger depending on your preference!
- Second rise: Place the shaped rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Cover them again with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise makes them even fluffier!
- Bake them up: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). When the rolls are ready, pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Oh, the smell will be irresistible!
And there you have it! Once they’re out of the oven, resist the urge to dig in right away—let them cool for a few minutes, and then enjoy the warm, fluffy perfection of Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls!
Why You’ll Love Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls
- Incredibly fluffy: These rolls are like little pillows of softness that just melt in your mouth.
- Perfectly balanced sweetness: The hint of sugar is just right, making them a delightful addition to any meal.
- Versatile: Serve them with butter, jam, or even as a base for sliders; they fit any occasion!
- Homemade aroma: The smell of baking rolls will have your whole house filled with warmth and nostalgia.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even a beginner can master these rolls!
- Great for sharing: They’re perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just because you want to spread some joy!
- Freezer friendly: Make a batch ahead of time, freeze them, and enjoy fresh rolls whenever you want!
Tips for Success with Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls
Alright, friends, let’s make sure your rolls turn out just as perfect as Aunt Shirley’s! Here are some of my top tips and tricks to help you avoid any common pitfalls and achieve that fluffy, golden goodness every time.
- Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast! If it’s old, your rolls might not rise properly, and that would be a real bummer.
- Warm milk is key: Make sure your milk is warm, but not too hot! It should feel like a cozy bath for your yeast—around 110°F (43°C) is perfect. Too hot, and you could kill the yeast!
- Knead just enough: Don’t over-knead your dough! Just around 5 minutes should do it. You want it smooth and elastic but not tough. If it feels hard, your rolls might end up dense!
- Give it time to rise: Patience is key! Allow your dough to rise in a warm, draft-free spot. If your kitchen is cool, you might consider placing it in the oven (turned off) with the light on to create a cozy environment.
- Shape evenly: When shaping your rolls, try to make them uniform in size so they bake evenly. If some are bigger than others, they’ll cook at different rates!
- Use parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper can help prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze—plus, your rolls won’t stick together!
- Brush with butter: For an extra touch of deliciousness, brush the tops of your rolls with melted butter right after they come out of the oven. It adds flavor and gives them a beautiful shine!
- Cool before serving: Let your rolls cool for a bit before diving in. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle, plus you’ll avoid burning your fingers!
Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls. Trust me, the smiles around the table will be worth it!
Nutritional Information for Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls
Now, I know you’re probably curious about the nutritional info for these delightful rolls, so here’s a rough estimate for one roll. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on how you make them, but this should give you a good idea!
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
These rolls are a lovely addition to any meal without breaking the calorie bank. Enjoy them as a treat while keeping in mind these estimated values! Remember, the joy of homemade cooking is all about balance and enjoying what you love.
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls
Now, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious rolls fresh and tasty! If you happen to have any leftovers—though I doubt you will!—here’s how to store them properly.
First off, once your rolls have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them soft and prevents them from drying out. If you want to keep them for longer, you can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months! Just make sure to label the bag with the date so you know when you baked them.
When you’re ready to enjoy those fluffy rolls again, here’s how to reheat them without losing that fresh-out-of-the-oven vibe. If they’re frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight first. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from browning too much. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. You can even add a little pat of butter on top before reheating for an extra touch of deliciousness!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls will stay delightful and ready to accompany your meals whenever the craving strikes. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ About Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls
Got questions about Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I get, along with my best answers to help you on your baking journey.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! If you’re using instant yeast, you can mix it straight into the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in warm milk first. Just skip that first step, and you’ll be good to go!
What if my dough isn’t rising?
Oh no! If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to a few things. Make sure your yeast is fresh and that your warm milk isn’t too hot or too cold. A warm, draft-free environment is best for rising. If your kitchen is cool, try placing the bowl in the oven with the light on to create a cozy atmosphere.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and shape it into rolls. At this point, you can cover and refrigerate the rolls overnight. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature and rise again for about 30 minutes before baking.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
Great question! Your rolls are done when they’re golden brown on top and sound hollow when you tap the bottom. A good rule of thumb is to keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! Adding herbs like rosemary or garlic powder can elevate the flavor of Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls. Just be cautious not to overpower the original sweet taste!
With these FAQs in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any challenges that come your way while baking these rolls. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls
Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal experience even further! These rolls are so versatile that they can complement just about any dish. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- With a hearty soup: Picture a warm bowl of your favorite vegetable or chicken soup alongside these fluffy rolls. The perfect combo for dipping and soaking up every last drop!
- As a side to roasted meats: Whether it’s a succulent roast chicken or tender beef, these rolls are the ideal accompaniment to soak up those delicious juices. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a bite!
- With a fresh salad: Serve your rolls with a crisp garden salad or a tangy Caesar salad. They add a lovely touch of warmth and comfort to your meal!
- For breakfast: Spread some butter and jam on a warm roll for a delightful breakfast treat, or serve them alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty start to your day!
- As sliders: Get creative and turn these rolls into sliders! Fill them with your favorite meats, cheeses, and toppings for a fun and delicious meal option.
- With butter and herbs: For an extra touch, serve the rolls with a side of herbed butter or garlic butter. It’s a simple way to make them even more irresistible!
Whatever you choose to serve with Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls, one thing’s for sure: they’ll always steal the show and have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy every moment around the table!
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Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls for Joyful Meals
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Aunt Shirley’s famous homemade dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add sugar, salt, melted butter, and eggs to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually mix in flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover. Let it rise for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and shape into rolls.
- Place rolls on a baking sheet and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use fresh yeast for best results.
- Store rolls in an airtight container.
- These rolls freeze well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Aunt Shirley's famous homemade dinner rolls