Ingredients

For the Dough:

• Warm Water: 1.5 cups (300 ml)
• Oil: 1 tea glass (90g)
• Yogurt: 1 tea glass (100 ml)
• Eggs: 2 (yolks separated)
• Sugar: 2 tablespoons (40g)
• Dry Yeast: 1 packet (10g)
• Flour: 5.5 cups (660g)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (8g)

For the Butter Coating:

• Melted Butter: 150g

Steps to Make Classic Soft Bread Rolls (Pide)

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours

Servings: 10-12 rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the warm water (about 300 ml) and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add the dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy and bubbly. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the yogurt, oil, and egg yolks. Mix these ingredients together until smooth. The yogurt adds a slight tanginess and richness to the dough, while the egg yolks help create a softer, more tender bread.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, and then pour the yeast mixture into the well. Gradually add the wet mixture into the flour and yeast, stirring as you go. Once the dough starts to come together, use your hands to knead it.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a clean, floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add a little more flour if the dough feels too sticky, but be careful not to add too much, as it can result in a dense bread. Knead until the dough is soft but firm.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This is the first rise, and it’s crucial for creating the soft, airy texture of the bread rolls.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal portions (about 10-12 pieces). Roll each portion into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet. Alternatively, you can shape them into small oval-shaped rolls or any shape you prefer.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough balls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes. This second rise will ensure the rolls are light and fluffy once baked.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Before baking, brush the tops of the dough balls with a little egg wash made from the remaining egg whites. This will give the rolls a beautiful golden color once they bake. Bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.

Step 9: Coat with Butter

Once the rolls are out of the oven, immediately brush them with the melted butter. This will give the rolls a glossy finish and an extra layer of rich flavor.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. They are perfect as a side dish with soups, stews, or salads, or served with a pat of butter for breakfast or a snack.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

What makes this bread recipe truly timeless is its simplicity and versatility. Bread has been a staple of human diets for thousands of years, and this version offers a delicious, rich, and soft texture that can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere, at any time. The use of basic ingredients—yeast, flour, eggs, oil, and yogurt—ensures that this bread can be made even when ingredients are sparse, yet the result is still indulgent and satisfying.

The versatility of this recipe is another reason for its enduring popularity. While the bread rolls are perfect on their own, they can also be customized to suit different tastes. Add herbs or garlic to the dough for an aromatic twist, or experiment with different toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even a sprinkle of cheese before baking. You can also make these rolls as a base for sandwiches or serve them alongside soups, dips, and stews.

This bread recipe also transcends generations and cultures. Its roots can be traced back to the ancient traditions of bread-making, and yet it remains as relevant today as it was centuries ago. Whether it’s baked in the home kitchen or served at a family gathering, these soft rolls always evoke a sense of warmth and comfort. The soft, fluffy texture, coupled with the rich butter coating, makes each bite an indulgence, while the simplicity of the recipe allows anyone to experience the joy of fresh, homemade bread.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour will give the rolls a denser texture, so you may need to adjust the amount of water or yeast.

2. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Simply shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.

3. Can I make these rolls without eggs?

Yes, you can make egg-free bread rolls by substituting the eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for a few minutes until thickened). The rolls will still be delicious and soft!

Tips for Making the Perfect Soft Bread Rolls

1. Use Warm Water: Make sure the water is warm, not hot. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, and if it’s too cold, the yeast may not activate properly.
2. Knead Thoroughly: Proper kneading is key to developing gluten in the dough, which is what gives bread its structure and texture. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.
3. Don’t Rush the Rising Time: Allow the dough to rise for the full time to ensure that the rolls are light and fluffy. Rushing the rise can result in denser rolls.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Add herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough for added flavor. You can even top the rolls with sesame seeds before baking for a crunchy texture.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store leftover bread rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: If you want to keep the rolls for longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the rolls for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore their soft, warm texture.

Conclusion

This recipe for Classic Soft Bread Rolls is more than just a simple baked good—it’s a piece of history, a timeless tradition that brings comfort, warmth, and a sense of nostalgia. With its soft, pillowy texture and buttery finish, it is the perfect accompaniment to any meal, while its simplicity makes it accessible for any home baker. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability and the joy it brings when shared with loved ones. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or as an everyday treat, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite.

In a world where convenience often takes precedence, the process of making homemade bread remains a deeply satisfying and rewarding experience. It’s a reminder of the importance of taking time to nurture both our bodies and our relationships through food. The satisfaction of biting into a warm, freshly baked roll made with your own hands is something that’s hard to beat. And once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself baking it time and time again, sharing the joy of homemade bread with those you care about. The Classic Soft Bread Rolls will never go out of style—they are, and will always be, a timeless comfort.