Parker House Dinner Rolls are warm, soft, and buttery treats that make any meal better! Their slight sweetness and fluffy texture are simply mouthwatering.
These rolls are so easy to pull apart, you’ll want to eat them all! I love serving them fresh out of the oven with a little honey or butter—nothing beats that cozy feeling! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your rolls. It gives structure and softness. If you’re looking for a whole grain option, you can replace some of it with whole wheat flour, but I wouldn’t go over 50% to keep that light texture.
Whole Milk: The creaminess of whole milk adds richness. You can substitute it with almond milk or any other milk, but the dough may be slightly less rich. Just make sure they’re unsweetened if using plant-based milks!
Active Dry Yeast: This ingredient helps the rolls rise. If you have instant yeast, you can use that, and there’s no need to activate it in warm milk. Just mix it in with the dry ingredients!
Unsalted Butter: It brings a lovely flavor to the rolls. If you’re looking to cut back on fat, try using applesauce in place of some of the butter, but know that it will change the flavor and texture a bit.
Egg: The egg adds richness and helps bind everything together. For an egg-free version, you could use a flaxseed meal or a tablespoon of unsweetened applesauce.
How Do You Knead Dough for Perfect Rolls?
Kneading is an essential step for developing the gluten that gives your rolls that perfect structure. To knead effectively, start with a floured surface and follow these simple steps:
- Place the dough on the floured surface and press it down with the heel of your hand.
- Fold the dough over itself, then turn it 90 degrees.
- Repeat this process for about 8-10 minutes, until your dough is smooth and elastic. It should bounce back slightly when you poke it.
If you’re using a stand mixer, just let it work for about 6-7 minutes until the dough clears the sides of the bowl. Don’t be discouraged if it feels sticky initially; that’s normal!
How to Make Parker House Dinner Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rolls:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus 2 tbsp melted butter for brushing)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 2 to 2.5 hours total, including rising time. The baking time is approximately 20-25 minutes. So, in just a few hours, you’ll have warm, fluffy rolls ready to enjoy with your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This is how you know the yeast is alive and ready to help your rolls rise!
2. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix everything together until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, you can use a dough hook to do this for about 6-7 minutes instead.
4. First Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the magic moment where your dough gets puffy and ready for shaping!
5. Shape the Rolls:
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Move it back to a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces (about 2 ounces each). Roll each piece into a ball and then slightly flatten each one with your hand.
6. Prepare for Second Rise:
Fold each flattened piece in half, pressing gently to seal the edges. This gives them that classic Parker House look! Arrange these folded pieces in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between them.
7. Second Rise:
Cover the rolls again with a cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they puff up nicely. In the meantime, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake the Rolls:
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly! 🌟
9. Finish and Serve:
Remove the rolls from the oven and brush the tops with the extra melted butter right away to give them a lovely shiny finish. Let them cool slightly before digging in. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, with butter or honey!
Enjoy your delicious and fluffy Parker House Dinner Rolls—a delightful addition to any meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can! If you want a healthier option, substitute up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Be aware that this may change the texture slightly, making the rolls denser and adding a nutty flavor.
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh and that the milk was warm but not too hot (above 120°F/49°C can kill the yeast). If the dough fails to rise during the first hour, try moving it to a warmer location.
How Should I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover Parker House rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them well and freeze them. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven or microwave for a short time and enjoy them fresh!
Can I Prepare the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and rise again before shaping and baking.
