Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls Recipe: A Delicious Classic

Old fashioned yeast rolls are kinda like a warm hug on your plate , reminding lots of us of Sunday dinners at grandma’s. They’re soft, puffy and made with just flour, yeast, sugar and milk , so they come out light and airy every time. Straight from the oven they smell amazing , filling the kitchen with that sweet bread scent.

These rolls aren’t just tasty — they stand for hospitality and good old home cooking . You’ll see them beside pot roast or turkey , and learning to make them is fun for newbies and pros alike. Plus it feels awesome when they turn out perfect .

Today we’ll talk about where these rolls came from, what you need to bake them, and a step-by-step guide. We’ll also cover common hiccups , some cool variations, and how to store and reheat your leftover rolls. Whether you bake a lot or this is your first time , you’ll find something here to help you nail old fashioned yeast rolls.

History of Yeast Rolls

Yeast rolls go way back to ancient times , when people first noticed fermented dough rising all on its own . By the 19th century , yeast was being made in factories , so home bakers started tweaking recipes and sharing them in their families. That’s why different regions have their own twists on the basic roll .

Today they’re staples at holiday tables and family reunions , and baking them makes your home feel cozy. Each bite takes you back to childhood birthdays or Thanksgiving dinners — they’re more than bread , they’re memories.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls

You need just a few things to whip up these rolls :

• Flour: All-purpose flour works best for that soft but sturdy texture .
• Yeast: Active dry or instant yeast — instant skips the proofing step .
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a little sweetness .
• Salt: Brings out flavor and keeps the yeast from going wild .
• Milk: Makes the dough tender and rich .
• Butter: Melted for moisture and flavor .

Optional extras: garlic, herbs or whole wheat flour for a twist .

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl for dough
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin (sometimes handy)
• Baking sheet + parchment paper
• Oven thermometer (keeps temp accurate)
• Plastic wrap or clean towel (for rising)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls

Ingredients List

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ tsp)
• 1½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm whole milk
• ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 room-temp eggs

Directions

1. Proof the Yeast

Mix warm milk and sugar, sprinkle yeast on top and wait until it’s frothy , about 5–10 minutes.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a big bowl whisk flour and salt, make a well and pour in the yeast mix .

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk butter and eggs in another bowl , then add to the flour mixture .

4. Form the Dough

Stir until shaggy, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic .

5. First Rise

Put dough in a greased bowl, cover and let rise 1–1½ hours or until doubled .

6. Shape the Rolls

Punch dough down, divide into balls and place on a greased baking dish .

7. Second Rise

Cover rolls and let rise another 30–45 minutes until puffy .

8. Bake the Rolls

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake 20–25 minutes until golden. Brush with extra butter if you like .

9. Cool and Serve

Let rolls cool a few minutes in the pan , then serve warm with butter or jam .

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dough Won’t Rise: Check that yeast is fresh and it’s warm where you let it sit .
• Dense Rolls: Don’t pack flour into the cup ; weigh if you can.
• Too Brown on Top: Lower temp or cover with foil halfway through baking .
• Off Flavor/Texture: Tweak salt or sugar amounts , try different mix-ins .

Variations of Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls

• Sweet Rolls: Add cinnamon and sugar like cinnamon rolls .
• Savory Rolls: Stir in garlic, herbs or shredded cheese .
• Seeded Rolls: Top with sesame or poppy seeds or use whole wheat .

Storing and Reheating Yeast Rolls

• Storing: Keep cooled rolls in an airtight container up to 2 days ; refrigerate for longer .
• Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 min or microwave 15–20 sec .

FAQs about Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls

• Best flour? All-purpose gives right balance of soft and structure .
• Make ahead? Yes , shape and refrigerate overnight before 2nd rise .
• Milk substitute? Water or non-dairy milks work but texture may change .
• How to test yeast? If it froths with warm liquid , it’s alive .
• Freeze rolls? Sure , wrap tight and freeze up to 3 months .

Conclusion

Baking old fashioned yeast rolls is a simple joy that brings everyone to the table . Try the classic recipe or mix in your own flavors , and enjoy warm bread that tastes like home .

Call to Action

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Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls

These Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. They are made with simple ingredients and rise beautifully, providing a delightful homemade touch to your meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Bread

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• 1 large mixing bowl
• 1 measuring cups
• 1 measuring spoons
• 1 wooden spoon or dough hook
• 1 plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
• 1 baking sheet
• 1 parchment paper
• 1 oven

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups all-purpose flour Plus additional for dusting.
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk Warmed to 110°F.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter Melted.
• 2 large eggs

Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
• Add the melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.
• Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms. You may need additional flour or a little less, depending on humidity and other factors.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
• Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm.

Notes

For added flavor, you can brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter before serving.

These rolls can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days and can also be frozen for longer storage. Reheat in the oven to restore warmth and softness.