Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 400–450 g wheat flour (approximately 3.5 cups)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (to enhance sweetness)
• 13 g fresh yeast (1/2 oz) or 7 g (2 teaspoons) dry yeast
• 200 ml warm water (1 cup)
• 1 egg yolk (adds richness to the dough)
• 5–6 g salt (1/2 teaspoon, to balance the flavors)
• 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 (for a caramel-like sweetness)

For Brushing:

• 1 egg (for a glossy finish)
• 2 tablespoons milk (to help the egg mixture spread evenly)

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• First Rise Time: 1–2 hours
• Second Rise Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 2.5–3 hours

Servings and Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Makes 10–12 rolls
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 250 kcal
• Macronutrients (per serving):
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g

Steps to Make Sweet Butter Bread Rolls

1. Activate the Yeast

Start by dissolving the fresh yeast in warm water (about 38°C/100°F). Add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the mixture to feed the yeast, stirring gently. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is alive and active.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, egg yolk, and melted butter. Mix the ingredients until they come together into a shaggy dough.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for 8–10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls their soft and airy texture.

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1–2 hours or until it doubles in size. This step helps the yeast to create air pockets, making the rolls light and fluffy.

5. Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing the softened butter and brown sugar in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and spreadable. This filling will create a luscious, caramel-like layer inside the rolls.

6. Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release excess air. Roll it out into a rectangular shape, about 1 cm (1/3 inch) thick. Spread the butter-sugar mixture evenly across the surface of the dough. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, forming a log. Cut the log into 10–12 equal pieces.

7. Second Rise

Place the rolls, cut side up, in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish. Leave a small gap between each roll to allow for expansion. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes. They should puff up and fill the spaces in the pan.

8. Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are undergoing their second rise, preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). A properly preheated oven ensures even baking and a beautiful golden crust.

9. Brush and Bake

Whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls to give them a shiny, golden finish. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

10. Cool and Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best experience, as the filling remains gooey and delicious.

Why Sweet Butter Bread Rolls are Timeless

Sweet Butter Bread Rolls have been cherished for their simplicity, versatility, and ability to evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. Whether enjoyed plain, with a dollop of jam, or alongside a cup of tea, they cater to a variety of tastes and occasions. The buttery richness and caramel sweetness make them universally appealing. Passed down through generations, they remain a staple in many households, proving that some recipes truly never go out of style.

FAQs

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of wheat flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour works well in this recipe, though wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and additional nutrition.

2. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! After shaping the rolls, place them on a tray and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and let them rise before baking.

3. How can I ensure my rolls are soft and fluffy?
Ensure the dough is well-kneaded, allow for proper rising times, and avoid overbaking.

Tips for Perfect Sweet Butter Bread Rolls

• Temperature Control: Use warm water for activating yeast; too hot can kill it, and too cold won’t activate it.
• Butter Quality: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor in the dough and filling.
• Even Slicing: Use dental floss instead of a knife to slice the rolls neatly without squishing the dough.
• Experiment with Fillings: Add cinnamon, raisins, or nuts to the filling for variation.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days, but reheat slightly before serving to restore their softness.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Sweet Butter Bread Rolls are more than just a recipe; they are a celebration of timeless baking traditions. Their pillowy texture, rich buttery filling, and golden crust make them a go-to treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at baking for the first time, these rolls are sure to delight. So gather your ingredients, warm up your oven, and experience the magic of homemade Sweet Butter Bread Rolls. Let this recipe bring joy to your table and become a treasured addition to your culinary repertoire.