Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls

My family are self-proclaimed bread fanatics. If I could serve bread with every meal and snack, they would probably cheer! So, I’m always on the lookout for bread recipes that are not only delicious but also bring something special to the table. Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe for Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls, and let me tell you, they are a game-changer! From the moment the aroma of baking herbs filled my kitchen, I knew these were going to be a hit. And I was right! These rolls are incredibly soft and airy on the inside, with layers of buttery, flaky goodness and a delightful hint of fresh herbs. My kids devoured them, slathered in butter and honey, and my husband declared them the best dinner rolls he’s ever had. If you’re looking to impress your family or guests with homemade bread that’s both easy to make and utterly irresistible, you absolutely have to try these Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls. Get ready for your kitchen to become the heart of the home, filled with the warm and inviting scent of freshly baked, herby perfection!

Ingredients for Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls

Here’s what you’ll need to create these heavenly Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls. Using quality ingredients will elevate the taste and texture, ensuring your rolls are truly exceptional.

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 ½ cups The foundation of our rolls. We’ll use all-purpose flour for a tender and light crumb. (Provides structure)
• Active Dry Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 standard packet) The magic ingredient that makes our rolls rise and become airy. (Leavening agent)
• Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors and feed the yeast. (Sweetness and yeast activation)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon Essential for flavor and to control the yeast activity. (Flavor enhancer and yeast regulator)
• Warm Milk: 1 cup (around 105-115°F or 40-46°C) Liquid component, adds moisture and richness. Warm milk is crucial for activating the yeast. (Moisture and richness)
• Large Egg: 1 Adds richness, color, and structure to the dough. (Enrichment and structure)
• Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (¼ cup), melted (for the dough) + ½ cup (1 stick), softened (for layering) The key to flakiness and rich flavor. We’ll use it both in the dough and layered for that signature flaky texture. (Flavor and flakiness)
• Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Parsley): 2-3 tablespoons total, finely chopped A blend of fresh herbs elevates the rolls with aromatic and savory notes. Feel free to use your favorites! (Flavor and aroma)

Instructions: Baking Your Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls

Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake perfect Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls every time. Read through the entire recipe before starting to ensure you understand each step.

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, or the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the warm milk (about 105-115°F, warm to the touch but not scalding), granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: While the yeast is activating, in a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add the egg and half of the melted unsalted butter (reserve the other half for layering) to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed with a dough hook (or by hand with a wooden spoon) until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Increase the mixer speed to medium-low and knead the dough for 6-8 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Proper kneading is crucial for gluten development and a light, airy texture.
5. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation): Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This process, known as bulk fermentation, develops flavor and lightens the dough.
6. Prepare the Herb Butter: While the dough is rising, prepare the herb butter. In a small bowl, combine the remaining melted unsalted butter with finely chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley, or your choice). Mix well and set aside. The aroma of this herb butter is simply divine!
7. Punch Down and Divide the Dough: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions.
8. Shape the Rolls and Layer with Herb Butter: Roll each portion of dough into a small rectangle, about 4×6 inches. Brush each rectangle generously with the herb butter. Fold the rectangle in half, brush again with herb butter, and fold in half again to create layers. Place the layered dough rounds into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan or a cast iron skillet. Arrange them snugly but not too tightly, allowing space for them to rise again.
9. Second Rise (Proofing): Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they are puffy and almost doubled in size. This second rise, called proofing, is essential for achieving light and fluffy rolls.
10. Preheat Oven and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have proofed, bake them for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
11. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy the flaky, herby goodness!

Nutrition Facts for Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional information for one serving of Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. (Serving Size: 1 Roll)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Fat: 10g

Preparation Time for Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls

Planning your time is key to successful bread baking. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Active Time: Approximately 45 minutes (This includes yeast activation, mixing, kneading, shaping, and butter layering).
• Rise Time (First Rise): 1 – 1.5 hours (Bulk Fermentation – dough doubles in size).
• Rise Time (Second Rise/Proofing): 30-45 minutes (Rolls become puffy and almost double).
• Bake Time: 20-25 minutes (Oven time until golden brown).
• Total Time: Approximately 2.5 – 3 hours (From start to finish, including all rise times and baking).

While the total time might seem long, most of it is hands-off rising time, allowing you to do other things while the dough works its magic!

How to Serve Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls

These versatile and delicious Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls can be served in countless ways. Here are some ideas:

• Classic Dinner Accompaniment:
  • Serve warm alongside your favorite dinner entrees like roasted chicken, pot roast, lasagna, or hearty soups and stews.
  • Perfect for holiday meals like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
• Bread Basket Star:
  • Include them in a bread basket assortment with other types of bread for a variety of textures and flavors.
  • Elevate your bread basket for dinner parties or special occasions.
• Sandwich Rolls:
  • Slice them in half and use them as sandwich rolls for gourmet sandwiches or sliders.
  • Their flaky texture makes them a delightful alternative to regular sandwich bread.
• Breakfast or Brunch Treat:
  • Enjoy them warm with butter, jam, honey, or cream cheese for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
  • Pair them with eggs, bacon, or fruit for a complete morning meal.
• Appetizer with Dips:
  • Serve them warm with various dips like herbed butter, olive oil and balsamic vinegar, hummus, or cheese dips.
  • A great way to start a meal or enjoy as a snack.
• Leftover Transformation:
  • Use leftover rolls to make bread pudding or croutons for salads or soups.
  • Reheat gently to restore their soft texture.

Additional Tips for Perfect Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls

Baking bread is a rewarding experience, and these tips will help you achieve flaky herb dinner roll perfection!

1. Use Fresh, Quality Yeast: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh and not expired. Old yeast might not activate properly, leading to flat rolls. If you are unsure, test your yeast by mixing a teaspoon of yeast with warm water and a pinch of sugar. It should become foamy within 5-10 minutes.
2. Warm Milk Temperature is Key: The milk should be warm to the touch (105-115°F) to activate the yeast effectively. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast; if it’s too cold, it won’t activate properly. Use a thermometer for accuracy if you are unsure.
3. Don’t Over-Knead: While kneading is important for gluten development, over-kneading can result in tough rolls. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, but stop when it reaches that stage.
4. Proper Rising Environment: For optimal rising, place the dough in a warm, draft-free place. A slightly warm oven (turned off!) or a warm spot in your kitchen works well. Humidity can also help, so you can place a damp towel near the bowl.
5. Don’t Skip the Herb Butter Layering: The herb butter layers are crucial for the flaky texture and herby flavor. Be generous with the herb butter when brushing each layer.
6. Proofing is Essential: Allow the rolls to proof adequately before baking. They should be puffy and almost doubled in size. Under-proofed rolls will be dense, while over-proofed rolls might collapse during baking.
7. Oven Temperature Accuracy: Ensure your oven temperature is accurate. Use an oven thermometer if you suspect your oven runs hot or cold. Baking at the correct temperature ensures even baking and prevents the rolls from burning or being undercooked.
8. Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allow the rolls to cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy on the bottom. Serve them warm for the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls

Here are some common questions and answers to help you bake these delicious Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls with confidence.

Q1: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

A1: Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, but you don’t need to activate instant yeast in warm milk first. You can add it directly to the dry ingredients. The rest of the recipe instructions remain the same.

Q2: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

A2: While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of each dried herb (rosemary, thyme, parsley) for this recipe. Remember that dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor, so use slightly less than fresh.

Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake later?

A3: Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. After the first rise, punch down the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 12-18 hours. When ready to bake, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before proceeding with shaping and the second rise.

Q4: My rolls are not as flaky as I expected. What could be the reason?

A4: Flakiness comes from the layers of butter. Ensure you are brushing each layer generously with herb butter during shaping. Also, avoid over-kneading the dough, as this can make it tougher and less flaky. Proper layering and not overworking the dough are key to flakiness.

Q5: Can I freeze these dinner rolls?

A5: Yes, Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls freeze beautifully. Bake them completely, let them cool to room temperature, and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw them at room temperature or in the refrigerator and then warm them in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Q6: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use other flavorings?

A6: Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can experiment with other flavorings. Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning can add delicious flavor. You can also omit the herbs entirely for classic flaky dinner rolls.

Q7: My rolls are browning too quickly on top. What should I do?

A7: If your rolls are browning too quickly, tent the pan loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will prevent the tops from burning while allowing the inside to bake through completely.

Q8: Can I make these rolls vegan?

A8: Making these rolls vegan requires substitutions. Use plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk), a flax egg or other egg replacer, and vegan butter. The taste and texture might slightly differ from the original recipe, but you can still achieve delicious vegan flaky herb rolls with these substitutions.

Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful Flaky Herb Dinner Rolls! They are sure to become a family favorite and a star at any gathering.

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