Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 400–450 g wheat flour (approximately 3.5 cups)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (enhances the dough’s sweetness and aids yeast activation)
• 13 g fresh yeast (1/2 oz) or 7 g (2 teaspoons) dry yeast (helps the dough rise)
• 200 ml warm water (1 cup, essential for yeast activation)
• 1 egg yolk (adds richness to the dough)
• 5–6 g salt (1/2 teaspoon, to balance the sweetness)
• 30 g butter (1 oz, melted for a tender crumb)

For the Filling:

• 100 g butter (2.5 oz, softened for easy spreading)
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar (adds caramel-like sweetness)

For Brushing:

• 1 egg (for a glossy finish)
• 2 tablespoons milk (to thin out the egg mixture for smooth application)

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour for dough rising)
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

Yield and Nutrition Information

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: ~220 kcal
• Nutritional Breakdown (per roll):
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Buttery sweet rolls are a staple of home baking, loved for their versatility and nostalgic charm. They bridge generations, evoking memories of childhood kitchens and family gatherings. The rich, buttery flavor paired with the slightly caramelized sweetness makes them universally appealing. Unlike store-bought alternatives, homemade rolls offer unparalleled freshness and flavor. Whether served plain, with a pat of butter, or slathered with jam, they are a true testament to the joy of baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This indicates the yeast is activated.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 400 g of wheat flour (reserve 50 g for adjustments), salt, and the yeast mixture.
3. Add the egg yolk and melted butter. Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add the remaining flour gradually, only if the dough feels sticky.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter and brown sugar. Mix well until you have a creamy, spreadable consistency.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

1. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air.
2. Roll the dough into a rectangle, approximately 12×16 inches in size, on a lightly floured surface.
3. Spread the butter-sugar filling evenly over the dough.
4. Roll the dough tightly from the longer side into a log.
5. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss (for clean cuts).
6. Place the rolls in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll to allow for expansion.

Step 4: Final Rise

1. Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 20–30 minutes until puffed.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk for brushing.
3. Lightly brush the rolls with the egg wash to give them a glossy finish.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve

Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, either plain or with an extra pat of butter.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

2. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in denser rolls. Consider using a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a balance of flavor and texture.

3. How can I make these rolls vegan?
Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine, the egg yolk with a flaxseed egg, and the milk with almond or soy milk.

4. What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can use granulated sugar with a tablespoon of molasses to replicate the caramel flavor.

Tips for Perfect Rolls

1. Activate the yeast properly: Ensure your water is warm (but not too hot) to activate the yeast effectively. Too hot, and it may kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate.
2. Don’t skip the second rise: This step is crucial for achieving light and fluffy rolls.
3. Use softened butter for the filling: Soft butter spreads more evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
4. Cut rolls cleanly: Use dental floss for cutting to avoid squishing the dough.
5. Check doneness: Rolls should be golden on top and sound hollow when tapped.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: While refrigeration is not recommended (it may dry them out), you can reheat them in the microwave with a damp paper towel to restore softness.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise at room temperature before baking.

Conclusion

Buttery sweet rolls are more than just a recipe—they’re a symbol of comfort and tradition. Their soft, pillowy texture and rich, buttery sweetness make them a beloved treat for every generation. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, you can recreate this timeless classic in your own kitchen.

There’s something deeply satisfying about baking from scratch. Watching the dough rise, filling the house with the aroma of fresh bread, and finally, sharing warm rolls with loved ones—it’s a ritual that connects us to the past while creating new memories. So, whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try. Serve these buttery sweet rolls at your next family meal, and watch them disappear in no time!