Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500-550 g wheat flour (4.5 cups) – All-purpose or bread flour works best for this recipe. Bread flour will yield slightly chewier rolls, while all-purpose flour creates a softer texture.
• 1 tablespoon sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk – Adds richness and helps create a soft crumb in the rolls.
• 13 g fresh yeast (1/2 oz) or 1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast – Essential for leavening and creating fluffy rolls.
• 125 ml warm water (1/2 cup) – Helps activate the yeast.
• 125 ml warm milk (1/2 cup) – Adds tenderness and a slight sweetness to the dough.
• 30 ml vegetable oil (3 tablespoons) – Contributes to the soft texture and prevents the rolls from drying out.
• 5-6 g salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Prep Time, Baking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Baking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2.5 hours

Servings

This recipe yields 12-16 medium-sized rolls, depending on how you portion the dough.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center.
3. Add the egg, egg yolk, warm milk, vegetable oil, and the activated yeast mixture into the well.
4. Gradually mix the ingredients together, starting with a spoon or spatula and then using your hands as the dough begins to come together.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
6. If the dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour (a tablespoon at a time) until it reaches the right consistency. Avoid adding too much flour, as this can result in dense rolls.

Step 4: First Rise

7. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free environment for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

8. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
9. Divide the dough into 12-16 equal portions, depending on your desired roll size.
10. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by rolling it on a floured surface or in your hands.

Step 6: Second Rise

11. Arrange the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
12. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until they have puffed up noticeably.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls

13. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
14. Before baking, you can brush the rolls with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water) for a glossy finish.
15. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

16. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll)

• Calories: 170 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the size of the rolls and specific ingredients used.

Why These Bread Rolls Are Timeless

Homemade bread rolls have been a staple in kitchens for generations. They represent simplicity, comfort, and the joy of baking. These rolls are timeless because they are:

1. Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They pair well with soups, salads, or as sandwich buns.
2. Customizable: You can add herbs, seeds, or even stuff them with cheese or meat for a creative twist.
3. Approachable: The ingredients are basic, and the steps are straightforward, making them an excellent choice for novice bakers.
4. Nostalgic: Freshly baked bread evokes memories of family gatherings and cherished moments.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind that the rolls may be denser.

2. What can I use if I don’t have fresh yeast?
If you don’t have fresh yeast, you can use the equivalent amount of active dry yeast or instant yeast.

3. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! After shaping the rolls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. Thaw and let them rise before baking.

4. How do I keep the rolls soft after baking?
Store the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to retain moisture.

Tips for Perfect Rolls

• Use a kitchen scale: Weighing ingredients ensures consistency and better results.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure the milk, water, and eggs are at room temperature for even mixing.
• Don’t rush the rise: Letting the dough rise properly is key to soft and fluffy rolls.
• Experiment with toppings: Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or grated cheese on top before baking.

Storage Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store the rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Avoid refrigerating as it can make the rolls dry and hard.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled rolls individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw and warm in the oven.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about the process of baking bread. From watching the dough rise to smelling the warm, yeasty aroma that fills your kitchen, homemade bread rolls bring joy and satisfaction like no other. These soft, fluffy rolls are a testament to the simplicity of good food. They’re easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always appreciated.

Whether you’re serving them at a festive dinner, using them as sandwich buns, or enjoying them plain with a cup of tea, these bread rolls are a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll find yourself experimenting with flavors, shapes, and toppings, turning a simple bread roll into a culinary masterpiece.

Baking bread at home is not just about feeding the body; it’s about nourishing the soul. And with these homemade bread rolls, you’ll create not just food, but memories that last a lifetime. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on the wonderful journey of baking.