Homemade Heaven: Soft and Buttery Old-Fashioned Yeast Rolls

Introduction

In the realm of classic baking, few treats rival the timeless appeal of Old-Fashioned Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls. The aroma of these freshly baked delights wafting through a kitchen is enough to transport anyone to nostalgic memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Mastering the art of crafting these rolls brings not only culinary satisfaction but also a cherished tradition to be passed down through generations.

Ingredients and Preparation

To embark on this journey of gastronomic delight, assemble your ingredients:

• 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup softened butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup hot milk
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 4 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 2 Tbsp melted butter (for brushing rolls)

Begin by activating the yeast. Sprinkle the yeast over warm water in a large bowl and allow it to dissolve and foam for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, combine sugar, butter, and salt with hot milk, ensuring everything melts and dissolves. Let this mixture cool to a temperature between 105 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.

Next, combine the milk mixture with the yeast and mix in the beaten egg. Gradually beat in 4 cups of flour to form a soft dough. Use the remaining flour to lightly dust your working surface.

Crafting the Rolls

Knead the dough lightly for about 5 minutes, using the dusted flour sparingly to prevent sticking. Transfer the dough into a warm, buttered bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise until doubled in size (approximately 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours).

Once risen, gently punch down the dough and knead it for another 4 to 5 minutes. Divide the dough into smaller pieces and shape them into round balls of about 1 3/4 inches in diameter. Place these rolls in a buttered pan, leaving space between them, and let them rise again until doubled in bulk.

Baking and Serving

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the rolls have doubled in size, brush the tops with melted butter. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until beautifully browned. If your oven tends to run hot, consider adjusting the temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a perfectly golden crust without over-browning.

As a final touch of indulgence, brush the freshly baked rolls with more melted butter while they are still hot. This will create a lusciously soft and buttery crust that will delight with every bite.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the art of Old-Fashioned Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls requires patience and attention to detail, but the results are well worth the effort. These rolls embody the essence of comfort and tradition, making them a perfect addition to any table or occasion.

Enjoy the delightful experience of baking these rolls and relishing their warm, buttery goodness with loved ones.