Irresistible Old-Fashioned Parker House Rolls Recipe

A warm aroma wafts through the air, enveloping you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Freshly baked Old-Fashioned Parker House Rolls, golden brown and soft as a cloud, are a culinary hug that makes your heart sing.

Remember that family gathering where everyone gathered around the kitchen, eagerly awaiting the rolls to emerge from the oven? Those moments of laughter and love are what make these rolls unforgettable. They’re perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or just to impress your in-laws—because who doesn’t want to be known as the culinary wizard of the family?

One Thanksgiving, my cousin almost wept when he took his first bite. I swear I saw a tear trickle down his cheek—either from joy or too much stuffing!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: This is your go-to flour for fluffy rolls; sifting it helps create an airy texture.

• Active Dry Yeast: Look for fresh yeast; it’s essential for that rise that makes these rolls so delightful.

• Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess; warm it slightly to help activate the yeast.

• Sugar: Just a hint of sugar balances flavors while encouraging yeast growth—sweet success!

• Salt: A must-have that enhances flavor; don’t skip it unless you want bland rolls.

• Butter: Melted butter enriches the dough and adds a scrumptious finish when brushed on top.

• Eggs: They provide structure and richness; room temperature eggs mix better into the dough.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Parker House Rolls

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy—about 5 minutes—indicating the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. This step ensures even distribution of salt throughout your rolls.

Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with melted butter and eggs into the flour mixture. Stir until well combined—the dough will be sticky but that’s okay!

Knead Away!: Lightly flour your countertop and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You want it to bounce back when poked gently—trust me; it’s worth it.

First Rise Time!: Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour or until doubled in size—patience is key here!

Shape Those Rolls!: Punch down the risen dough gently to release air bubbles. Divide into equal portions (about 12-16) and shape them into balls. Place them in a greased baking dish close together—they’ll snuggle up nicely!

The Final Rise: Cover again with a cloth and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy like marshmallows ready for roasting.

Bake to Perfection!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and smelling heavenly! Brush with melted butter right after they come out of the oven.

Now you have those dreamy Old-Fashioned Parker House Rolls ready for dinner! Imagine serving these fluffy delights alongside your favorite main dishes—they’ll steal the show!

In summary, these rolls are not just food; they’re part of life’s sweetest moments. So grab your apron and get rolling!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by activating your yeast in warm milk, then mix the wet and dry ingredients. Knead until smooth before letting it rise. Shape your rolls gently after the first rise and let them rise again before baking. This sequence ensures fluffy rolls with a golden crust.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition. You can also brush the tops with garlic butter or sprinkle herbs before baking to add a personal flair. Experiment with different fillings like cheese or herbs to make these rolls uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their fresh-baked goodness.

Sharing these rolls at family gatherings consistently brings smiles and compliments from my loved ones, especially when they realize I made them from scratch—it’s become a cherished tradition in our household.

FAQ

What makes Parker House Rolls different from regular dinner rolls?

Parker House Rolls are distinguished by their buttery flavor and soft texture, often featuring a unique folding technique that creates layers. This method enhances their fluffiness and gives them a delightful bite that’s simply irresistible.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight during its first rise. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before shaping and letting it rise again.

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

Your rolls are ready when they turn golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) for perfectly baked rolls.

Can I add fillings to my Parker House Rolls?

Yes! Feel free to add fillings like cheese, herbs, or even sweet options like cinnamon sugar before folding them over into shape. This customization adds delicious surprises to each bite!

Conclusion for Old-Fashioned Parker House Rolls

Old-Fashioned Parker House Rolls are not just a side dish; they’re an experience full of warmth and flavor that brings family together around the table. With simple techniques and endless customization options, you can create these delightful rolls effortlessly at home. Remember to enjoy the process as much as the finished product!