Fluffy Yeast Rolls with Greek Yogurt and Butter

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked rolls filling the kitchen! These Fluffy Yeast Rolls with Greek Yogurt and Butter are soft, airy, and have a subtle tang from the Greek yogurt. Perfectly golden and buttery on the outside, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture on the inside, these rolls are a delicious addition to any meal. Whether served as a side to your favorite dinner or enjoyed as a snack with jam or butter, these rolls will surely be a hit. Let’s dive into making these easy-to-follow, yet incredibly satisfying rolls!

Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Resting Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Baking Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 large egg
2 tablespoons sugar
100–150 g Greek yogurt or sour cream (about 1/3–1/2 cup)

13 g fresh yeast (about ½ ounce)
250 ml warm milk (approx. 1 cup)
400 g all-purpose flour (about 3 1/4 cups), sifted

5-6 g salt (approx. 1 teaspoon)
50 g butter (approx. 3 ½ tbsp), softened
Additional flour for rolling

For the Topping:

1 egg yolk + 1 teaspoon milk (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, sugar, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), fresh yeast, and warm milk. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the sifted flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together. The dough will initially be very liquid, but don’t worry! Keep mixing and slowly add another 100–150 g of flour until the dough firms up and is easier to handle.
Knead the Dough:
Add the softened butter to the dough and knead it in using your hands. Continue kneading for 8–10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.

Let the Dough Rise:
Grease a bowl with oil and place the dough inside. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and set it in a warm place to rise for 50-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Rolls:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 8 even pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and arrange them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Rest the Rolls:
Cover the tray with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rest for 10 minutes to allow the dough to relax before baking.

Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, mix together the egg yolk and milk. Brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash to give them a shiny, golden finish once baked.
Bake the Rolls:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the tray in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and fully cooked through. The rolls should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve them warm with butter, jam, or as a side dish to your favorite meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving; makes 8 rolls)

Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 8 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 210 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Yeast rolls have been a staple in many cultures around the world for centuries. The use of fresh yeast for light, fluffy rolls has become a favorite in homes worldwide, especially for special occasions, holiday meals, and family gatherings. This particular recipe, with the addition of Greek yogurt, is a variation that brings extra moisture and a subtle tang to the rolls, making them even more delicious. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward process make this recipe a popular choice for novice and seasoned bakers alike.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

Light and Fluffy: These rolls have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is perfectly airy yet hearty.
Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, these rolls are beginner-friendly.

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and great with a variety of toppings or dips.
Flavorful: The combination of Greek yogurt and butter in the dough adds richness and depth of flavor.

Health Benefits

Greek Yogurt: Adds probiotics, which support gut health and digestion.

Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D.
Butter: While butter should be consumed in moderation, it contributes to the delicious richness and provides vitamin A.
Flour: A source of carbohydrates for energy. To make these rolls healthier, consider using whole-wheat flour for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast or Brunch: Serve these rolls with butter, honey, or fruit preserves for a perfect breakfast or brunch option.
Side Dish: Pair with soups, salads, or roasted meats for a comforting side dish.
Snack: Enjoy as a mid-day snack with cheese or a light dip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Dough: After adding the flour, mix just until the dough comes together. Overmixing will make the rolls dense.
Not Letting the Dough Rise Enough: Be sure to give the dough time to rise properly. If it hasn’t doubled in size, give it more time.
Underbaking: Make sure the rolls are golden brown on top and fully baked before removing them from the oven.

Skipping the Resting Time: Let the dough rest after shaping the rolls to allow for even baking.

Pairing Recommendations

Wine Pairing: A light white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the soft, buttery texture of the rolls.
Non-Alcoholic: Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water to balance the richness of the rolls.

Butter or Jam: Serve with a dollop of butter or your favorite fruit jam for a sweet touch.

Cooking Tips

Use Fresh Yeast: Fresh yeast provides the best rise and texture, but if you only have active dry yeast, use 2¼ teaspoons of dry yeast in place of the fresh yeast.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Let it rise before shaping and baking.

Freezing: These rolls freeze well. After baking, cool them completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Similar Recipes to Try

Cinnamon Rolls: Add a sweet cinnamon filling to these rolls for a decadent breakfast treat.
Garlic Knots: A savory variation of these rolls, perfect for serving with pasta or pizza.

Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls that are perfect for holiday meals or family dinners.

Variations to Try

Herb Rolls: Add garlic, rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for a fragrant, herb-filled roll.
Sweet Rolls: Add cinnamon and sugar to the dough, and drizzle with icing for a sweet twist.

Cheese Stuffed Rolls: Stuff the dough with cheese before rolling for an extra cheesy treat.

Ingredient Spotlight

Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a fantastic source of protein, calcium, and probiotics. It helps improve digestion and gut health while adding creaminess to dishes. In baking, Greek yogurt provides moisture and helps create a tender crumb, as seen in these rolls.

Conclusion

These Fluffy Yeast Rolls with Greek Yogurt and Butter are easy to make and packed with flavor. Their soft, pillowy texture and buttery taste make them the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you serve them for breakfast, as a side, or simply as a snack, these rolls will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious aroma as they bake, and savor every bite of these comforting rolls!

FAQ

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. Let it rise before baking.

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier version, though the texture may be denser.
Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, freeze the baked rolls and reheat in the oven when needed.
Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, use 2¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast in place of the fresh yeast.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I add herbs to the dough?
Yes, fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic work well in the dough.
How do I know when the rolls are done?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I make these rolls without butter?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a lighter version.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes, use plant-based yogurt, non-dairy milk, and egg replacers to make these rolls vegan.
Can I add fillings to the rolls?
Yes, cheese, herbs, or even a sweet filling like cinnamon sugar can be added for variety.