Indulge in the aroma of freshly baked bread rolls, soft and fluffy on the inside with a crispy crust. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a casual brunch to a fancy dinner party.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg, beaten
- For the Glaze:
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush and Sprinkle: Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg and sprinkle with your desired toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse sea salt).
- Bake: Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.
Enjoy your homemade bread rolls!
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use milk instead of water.
- Experiment with different fillings like cheese, herbs, or chocolate chips.
- To freeze the rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.