Bread Machine Rolls Recipe

Warm water: The base liquid that activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.

Softened butter: Adds richness and flavor to the rolls.

Beaten egg: Provides structure and helps with the dough's texture.

Bread flour: Essential for the right texture and structure of the rolls.

Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.

Active dry yeast: The leavening agent that makes the dough rise.

When adding the yeast to the bread flour, make sure to create a small well in the flour to keep the yeast separate from the salt and sugar initially. This helps the yeast activate properly without being hindered by direct contact with the salt.

• 1 cup warm water - Substitute with 1 cup milk: Milk adds richness and a slightly sweeter flavor to the dough.

• 2 tablespoon softened butter - Substitute with 2 tablespoon margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative and provides a similar texture.

• 1 egg beaten large egg - Substitute with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a binding agent and adds moisture to the dough.

• 3.25 cups bread flour - Substitute with 3.25 cups all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used if bread flour is unavailable, though the rolls may be slightly less chewy.

• 0.25 cup sugar - Substitute with 0.25 cup honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and can help keep the rolls moist.

• 1 teaspoon salt - Substitute with 1 teaspoon sea salt: Sea salt can be used for a slightly different flavor profile and is often less processed.

• 2.25 teaspoon active dry yeast - Substitute with 2.25 teaspoon instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used interchangeably with active dry yeast and may even reduce rising time.

• Allow the rolls to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the bread soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer, you can also wrap them individually in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

• To extend the shelf life, store the rolls in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, and they will stay fresh for up to a week. Before serving, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their softness.

• For freezing, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped rolls in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness. The rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When ready to use, thaw the rolls at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. To refresh them, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for about 10 minutes or until they are warm and soft.

• If you want to enjoy the rolls with a crispy crust, you can mist them lightly with water before reheating in the oven. This will help recreate the freshly baked texture.

• For a quick thawing method, you can use the microwave. Place a frozen roll on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 15-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the rolls in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the crust's texture while ensuring the inside is soft and fluffy.

• Microwave Method: Place the rolls on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the rolls chewy.

• Steaming Method: If you have a steamer, this method can keep the rolls moist. Place the rolls in the steamer basket and steam for about 5 minutes. This method is excellent for maintaining the rolls' soft texture.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes. This method is quick and helps keep the rolls crispy on the outside.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the rolls in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method can give the rolls a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.

• Bread machine: This is essential for mixing and kneading the dough, as well as for the initial rise.

• Measuring cups: These are used to measure the warm water, bread flour, and sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: These are necessary for measuring the salt and yeast precisely.

• Mixing bowl: Useful for beating the egg before adding it to the bread machine.

• Whisk: Helps in beating the egg evenly.

• Spatula: Handy for scraping down the sides of the bread machine pan if needed.

• Floured surface: This is where you will turn out the dough and divide it into rolls.

• Knife: Used to divide the dough into 12 pieces.

• Baking sheet: Needed to place the rolls on for their final rise and baking.

• Parchment paper: Optional, but can be used to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup.

• Plastic wrap: Used to cover the rolls while they rise.

• Oven: Preheated to 375°F (190°C) for baking the rolls.

• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking sheet when removing it from the oven.

• Cooling rack: Allows the rolls to cool evenly after baking.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out bread flour, sugar, and salt ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-softened butter: Ensure the butter is already softened to save time during mixing.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while the dough is rising to avoid waiting later.

Divide dough quickly: Use a bench scraper to swiftly divide the dough into equal pieces.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to save time on greasing.