Parker House Rolls

There’s something truly special about freshly baked bread, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while making Parker House Rolls is simply irresistible. I remember the first time I made these delightful rolls; it was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and the warmth of the oven combined with the sweet scent of rising dough made the entire house feel cozy. My family gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting the moment I’d pull them from the oven, golden and fluffy, and slathered in melted butter. These rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re a warm embrace on a cold day, a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings, and the perfect side for any meal.

Everything You Need for Parker House Rolls

The ingredients for Parker House Rolls come together in a way that perfectly balances flavor and texture. The key players, such as whole milk and unsalted butter, contribute to the rolls’ rich taste, while rapid-rise yeast ensures that they are light and airy. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the ideal roll that is both comforting and delicious.

• 1¼ cups warm whole milk (110 degrees on an instant read thermometer) – This ingredient activates the yeast, helping the rolls rise beautifully.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and flavor, making the rolls decadent and inviting.
• 1 large egg – Provides structure to the dough and contributes to the lovely golden color after baking.
• 4¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus more, as needed) – The main building block of the rolls, giving them body and texture.
• 3 tablespoons granulated white sugar – A touch of sweetness balances the flavors and enhances browning during baking.
• 2¼ teaspoons rapid-rise yeast (1 envelope or ¾ ounce) – Ensures quick and effective rising of the dough.
• 1½ teaspoons salt – Essential for flavor, it enhances the overall taste of the rolls.
• Vegetable or canola oil, for greasing the bowl – Helps prevent the dough from sticking during the rising process.
• Extra melted butter, for brushing on rolls before and after baking – Provides a beautiful shine and adds flavor to the finished rolls.

Making Parker House Rolls

Creating Parker House Rolls is a delightful process that brings the warmth of baking into your home. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect rolls that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

1. In a 4-cup measuring cup, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, and egg. Whisk until blended. The mixture should be warm, not hot, to protect the yeast.
2. In a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix on low. Gradually pour in the milk mixture, blending until a dough forms, about 2 minutes.
3. Increase the speed to medium-low and mix until the dough is smooth and elastic, approximately 8 minutes. After 4 minutes, you can add additional flour if needed, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough cleans the sides of the bowl but still sticks to the bottom.
4. Scoop the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough by hand until it forms a smooth, round ball. Place the dough in a large, lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and put it in a warm area to rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1½ hours.
5. While the dough is rising, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in preparation for later.
6. Once the dough has risen, place it back on a lightly floured surface and divide it into two equal portions. Cover one portion with a clean dish towel.
7. Work with the remaining dough half by stretching it into a 12-inch log and cutting it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball using your palm and cover with lightly greased plastic wrap while forming the rolls.
8. Flatten each dough ball into an oval shape (about 4 inches long) with a depressed middle, higher on the sides. Brush the center of each oval with melted butter, then fold them in half to create the signature Parker House roll shape. Press the edges lightly to seal.
9. Transfer the shaped rolls to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Cover with lightly sprayed plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm location until doubled in size, about 45 minutes to 1¼ hours.
10. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, adjusting the racks to the upper-middle and lower-middle positions. Once the rolls have risen, lightly brush them with melted butter, then bake until golden brown, about 20 to 25 minutes. Be sure to rotate the pans halfway through baking for even cooking.
11. Once baked, let the rolls cool slightly and serve warm, brushed with additional melted butter if desired. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade Parker House Rolls!

Tips for Success

For anyone looking to perfect their Parker House Rolls, here are some tips that can make a big difference in your baking journey.

• Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate.
• Freezing: You can freeze formed, fully risen rolls for up to 1 month. After freezing, place them in a ziplock bag and let them thaw before baking.
• Pairing: Parker House Rolls pair beautifully with hearty soups and stews. They’re also excellent with a rich gravy!
• Making them ahead: Prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and rising.
• Changing flavors: Feel free to add herbs or cheese into the dough for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

What Complements This Parker House Rolls

When it comes to serving Parker House Rolls, the possibilities are endless!

• Hearty Soups: These rolls are perfect alongside thick, hearty soups like chicken noodle or minestrone, soaking up the flavors beautifully.
• Roast Dinners: Serve them with roast chicken or beef for an elegant dinner. They act as the perfect accompaniment to any roast.
• Holiday Feasts: Imagine these rolls on your Thanksgiving table, serving alongside turkey and stuffing. They’re a must-have for any holiday meal.
• Brunch Gatherings: Pair them with eggs and fresh fruit for a delightful brunch spread that will impress your guests.
• Picnics and Potlucks: These rolls travel well and can be enjoyed at room temperature, making them ideal for gatherings.
• Storage Tips: Leftover rolls can be stored wrapped in foil or in an airtight container, ready to be enjoyed again.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Parker House Rolls are not just a side dish; they are a beloved tradition that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Their soft, fluffy texture and rich buttery flavor make them irresistible, making them a staple in my kitchen. I encourage you to try making these rolls yourself and experience the delightful warmth they bring to your dining table. Your family and friends will appreciate the effort, and you might just create a new tradition of your own!

Parker House Rolls

The ultimate comfort food, Parker House Rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal. Freshly baked and brushed with melted butter, they’re a delicious addition to your dining table. Give them a try tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 24 rolls

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Blender
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1.25 cups warm whole milk 110 degrees on an instant read thermometer
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter melted
• 1 large egg
• 4.25 cups all-purpose flour plus more, as needed
• 3 tablespoons granulated white sugar
• 2.25 teaspoons rapid-rise yeast (1 envelope or ¾ ounce)
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil for greasing the bowl
• 4 tablespoons extra melted butter for brushing on rolls before and after baking

Instructions

 

• In a 4-cup measuring cup, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, and egg. Whisk until blended. The mixture should be warm, not hot, to protect the yeast.
• In a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix on low. Gradually pour in the milk mixture, blending until a dough forms, about 2 minutes.
• Increase the speed to medium-low and mix until the dough is smooth and elastic, approximately 8 minutes. After 4 minutes, you can add additional flour if needed, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough cleans the sides of the bowl but still sticks to the bottom.
• Scoop the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough by hand until it forms a smooth, round ball. Place the dough in a large, lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and put it in a warm area to rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1½ hours.
• While the dough is rising, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in preparation for later.
• Once the dough has risen, place it back on a lightly floured surface and divide it into two equal portions. Cover one portion with a clean dish towel.
• Work with the remaining dough half by stretching it into a 12-inch log and cutting it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball using your palm and cover with lightly greased plastic wrap while forming the rolls.
• Flatten each dough ball into an oval shape (about 4 inches long) with a depressed middle, higher on the sides. Brush the center of each oval with melted butter, then fold them in half to create the signature Parker House roll shape. Press the edges lightly to seal.
• Transfer the shaped rolls to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Cover with lightly sprayed plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm location until doubled in size, about 45 minutes to 1¼ hours.
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, adjusting the racks to the upper-middle and lower-middle positions. Once the rolls have risen, lightly brush them with melted butter, then bake until golden brown, about 20 to 25 minutes. Be sure to rotate the pans halfway through baking.
• Once baked, let the rolls cool slightly and serve warm, brushed with additional melted butter if desired. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade Parker House Rolls!

Notes

• Tip 1: For this recipe, you will need an instant read thermometer and a small rolling pin or dowel rod.
• Tip 2: This recipe was made using Land-O-Lakes unsalted butter and has not been tested with other brands.
• Tip 3: I use my microwave as a proofing oven. When the task light is on (under the microwave) the inside of the microwave stays warm and is free from drafts.
• Tip 4: Make ahead instructions: Once the dough is made, do not let it rise. Refrigerate the dough ball overnight or up to 16 hours. When ready to bake, let the dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, then continue with the remaining instructions for rising in step 3.
• Tip 5: Unbaked, formed, fully risen rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month. Once frozen, transfer to a large ziplock bag for storage. To bake, remove the frozen rolls to a parchment lined baking sheet and allow them to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake.

Keyword buttery bread rolls, homemade dinner rolls, Parker House Rolls, soft and fluffy rolls

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.