Brown and Serve Rolls

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly baked rolls wafting through your kitchen. These Brown and Serve Rolls are remarkably soft, buttery, and have the perfect balance of flavors thanks to the addition of garlic and rosemary. They can be made ahead of time and simply reheated before serving, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Brown and Serve Rolls are not just any ordinary bread. They are incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are a few reasons why you will adore this recipe:

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the rolls in advance and freeze them. Just warm them up when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavorful Additions: The minced garlic and fresh rosemary add a delightful twist that elevates these rolls from basic to extraordinary.
• Perfectly Soft: The combination of milk and butter creates a tender texture that is irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the warm, fluffy goodness of these rolls.

Ingredient Breakdown

To make these Brown and Serve Rolls, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 to 9 cups all-purpose flour: This will give the rolls their structure and fluffy texture.
• 2 envelopes instant yeast (4 1/2 teaspoons): Providing the necessary rise for the rolls.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adding just the right amount of sweetness.
• 4 teaspoons fine sea salt: Enhancing the flavor of the rolls.
• 3 to 4 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary (optional): For an aromatic touch.
• 4 to 5 large garlic cloves, minced: Infusing the rolls with a savory garlic flavor.
• 1 cup milk: Contributing to a rich and tender crumb.
• 1 cup water: Helping to hydrate the dough.
• 1 cup unsalted butter: Adding richness and flavor. Be sure to use unsalted for better control of seasoning.

Recommended Tools

Before you dive into making these rolls, ensure you have the following tools on hand:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
• Stand Mixer with Dough Hook: Makes kneading the dough easier, but you can also knead by hand.
• Rolling Pin: To shape the dough after it has risen.
• Baking Sheets: For placing the rolls to bake.
• Plastic Wrap: To cover the dough while it rises.

Directions: Brown and Serve Rolls

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your delicious Brown and Serve Rolls:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and fine sea salt. If you’re using fresh rosemary, add it now. Mix the dry ingredients until well combined.

Step 2: Heat the Liquid Ingredients

In a small saucepan, combine the milk, water, and unsalted butter. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches 110°F to 115°F (warm to the touch but not hot). This temperature is ideal for activating the yeast.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the warm liquid mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the minced garlic and stir until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on low speed for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

After rising, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 24 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Place the rolls on greased baking sheets.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 9: Bake the Rolls

Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly. If serving immediately, enjoy them warm. If preparing for later, allow them to cool completely before storing.

Smart Substitutions

If you want to mix things up or need to accommodate dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Non-Dairy Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
• Olive Oil: Substitute olive oil for unsalted butter for a lighter and dairy-free roll.
• Other Herbs: Instead of rosemary, try thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Learn from These Mistakes

When making these Brown and Serve Rolls, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Using water that is too hot can kill the yeast. Always check the temperature.
• Not allowing the dough to rise enough can lead to dense rolls. Be patient during the rising times.
• Overbaking can dry out the rolls. Keep an eye on them in the oven.
• Not measuring flour correctly can affect the dough consistency. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To ensure your Brown and Serve Rolls stay fresh and delicious, follow these tips:

Once cooled, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls, then refrigerate them overnight. Just be sure to allow extra time for them to rise before baking.

Can I freeze the rolls after baking?

Absolutely! Once cooled, freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container. They can be reheated directly from the freezer.

What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

If you don’t have fresh rosemary, feel free to omit it or use dried rosemary instead. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use less—about 1 tablespoon should suffice.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check with a thermometer; they should read around 190°F (88°C) when fully baked.

Bring It Home

These Brown and Serve Rolls are not just a side dish; they are a statement piece for any meal. The delightful aroma of garlic and rosemary wafting from your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting the dinner table. With their fluffy texture and rich flavor, these rolls are sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Enjoy the process of making them, and relish the joy they bring to your family gatherings and everyday meals. Happy baking!