Homemade Parker House Rolls

There is something truly magical about Homemade Parker House Rolls. They boast a soft, pillowy texture paired with a subtle buttery flavor that instantly turns any meal into a celebration. Whether fresh from the oven or served alongside your favorite dish, these rolls have a rich history and a comforting taste that make them absolutely irresistible every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: Perfectly light and airy crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Buttery Richness: A golden crust brushed with butter adds an irresistible flavor and shine.
• Classic Comfort Food: A true nostalgic taste that brings warmth and joy to every table.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from pantry staples that come together for extraordinary flavor.
• Versatile Pairing: Great with everything from holiday dinners to casual weeknight meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is delightfully simple, relying on just a handful of essential ingredients that work harmoniously. Each one plays a key role in achieving the soft, buttery texture and rich flavor that make Homemade Parker House Rolls stand out.

• All-Purpose Flour: The base that provides structure and the perfect crumb.
• Warm Milk: Adds moisture and encourages a tender crumb while activating the yeast.
• Active Dry Yeast: The magical ingredient that gives the rolls their rise and fluffiness.
• Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the buttery notes and feed the yeast.
• Unsalted Butter: Both melted and for brushing, it is essential for richness and flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the overall taste and balances the sweetness.
• Egg: Adds richness and helps with browning for that beautiful golden crust.

Variations for Homemade Parker House Rolls

Feel free to make this classic recipe your own! There are plenty of easy ways to customize these rolls according to your taste, dietary preferences, or available ingredients.

• Whole Wheat Twist: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
• Garlic Herb Infusion: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs to the dough or butter topping for a savory spin.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap milk and butter for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.
• Sweet Honey Butter: Mix honey into the melted butter brushed on top for a subtle sweetness and shine.
• Stuffed Rolls: Fill with cheese or savory fillings before baking for a tasty surprise inside.

How to Make Homemade Parker House Rolls

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

Start by dissolving the active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar in warm milk, letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy to ensure the yeast is activated.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the proofed yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg, then stir to form a soft dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten for the perfect texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle. Cut into equal-sized squares, then fold each square in half and place folded side down in a greased baking pan to get the signature shape.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls and allow them to rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffy and almost doubled.

Step 7: Bake and Butter

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter for that famous buttery finish.

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Parker House Rolls

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check your yeast is active to ensure proper rising and fluffiness.
• Don’t Skip the Butter Brush: Brushing on melted butter while hot locks in moisture and adds flavor.
• Keep Milk Warm: Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to activate yeast without killing it.
• Proof Properly: Give enough time for the dough to rise twice for soft, airy rolls.
• Folded Side Down: When shaping, place the fold down for that classic crescent and texture.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Helps the yeast activate smoothly and dough come together well.

How to Serve Homemade Parker House Rolls

Garnishes

After baking, a brush of fresh melted butter is essential, but you can also sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for an extra touch of flavor and charm.

Side Dishes

These rolls are fabulous alongside soups, stews, roasted meats, or even holiday favorites like turkey and mashed potatoes, absorbing every delicious sauce and gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the rolls in a warm basket lined with a cozy kitchen towel or serve them in mini stacks with herb-infused butter pats on the side for a delightful and inviting presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stored properly in an airtight container or covered tightly with foil, homemade Parker House rolls stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.

Freezing

Wrap each roll individually or place the whole batch in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat rolls by warming them in a foil-covered pan at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or briefly microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

FAQs

What makes Parker House rolls different from regular dinner rolls?

Parker House rolls are folded over before baking, creating a soft, buttery pocket inside and a distinctive shape that sets them apart from other dinner rolls.

Can I make these rolls without an egg?

Yes! You can omit the egg or replace it with an egg substitute like applesauce or flaxseed gel, though the texture may be slightly different.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and spring back slowly when gently pressed with a finger, indicating it’s properly proofed.

Is it okay to use milk alternatives in this recipe?

Absolutely! Plant-based milks like almond or soy milk work well to keep the rolls soft and flavorful, making the recipe dairy-free.

Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped rolls after the first rise. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then let them rise once more before baking.

Final Thoughts

Making Homemade Parker House Rolls is like inviting a piece of culinary history into your kitchen, delivering an unbeatable combination of soft texture, buttery goodness, and simple elegance. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a delightful way to bring warmth and joy to your table. So go ahead—bake a batch, share with loved ones, and savor every irresistible bite!

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