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Homemade Parker House Rolls

Homemade Parker House Rolls
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Homemade Parker House Rolls are soft, pillowy rolls with a subtle buttery flavor and a golden crust. This classic American bread features a folded-over shape that creates a tender crumb and rich, buttery finish. Perfect as a comforting side for holiday dinners, soups, and stews, these rolls combine simple pantry ingredients with time-honored techniques to deliver warm, irresistible rolls every time.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Proof the Yeast: Dissolve the active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy to activate the yeast.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the proofed yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir together until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic to develop gluten and perfect texture.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle. Cut into equal squares. Fold each square in half and place folded side down in a greased baking pan to create the classic Parker House shape.
  6. Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls and allow to rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
  7. Bake and Butter: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and immediately brush with melted butter for a shiny, buttery finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh yeast for optimal rising and fluffiness.
  • Brush the rolls with melted butter immediately after baking to lock in moisture and flavor.
  • Keep milk warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast.
  • Allow the dough to rise twice for soft, airy rolls.
  • Place the folded side of each roll down to achieve the signature crescent shape and texture.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth yeast activation and dough consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: Parker House rolls, homemade rolls, buttery dinner rolls, soft rolls, yeast rolls, classic rolls, bread rolls

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/homemade-parker-house-rolls/