Parker House Rolls are a classic New England bread, known for their buttery flavor and soft, pillowy texture. These rolls are perfect for any dinner table, whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or enjoying a casual family meal. If you’ve never tried making these delightful rolls at home, you’re in for a treat! They are surprisingly simple to make and will impress your guests with their irresistible fluffiness and golden-brown tops.
Imagine pulling apart a warm, fresh roll, the buttery aroma filling the air as you spread a little honey or jam on top. This Parker House Rolls recipe will guide you through the process, making it easy to recreate that bakery experience right in your kitchen.
Overview of Parker House Rolls
Parker House Rolls are a cherished New England classic, renowned for their soft and airy texture.
These rolls offer a delightful buttery flavor that makes them a crowd favorite at dinner tables across the country.
Whether for a grand holiday feast or a casual family gathering, these rolls enhance every meal.
The experience of pulling apart a warm roll, with its inviting aroma filling the kitchen, is simply irresistible.
Adding a touch of honey or jam elevates the taste, making these rolls an essential addition to any meal.
Characteristics of Fluffy Parker House Rolls
What sets Parker House Rolls apart is their lightness and golden-brown crust.
Each roll boasts a rich buttery flavor combined with a subtle sweetness, creating a perfect balance that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes.
These rolls complement everything from hearty soups and stews to roasted meats, making them versatile companions for any culinary occasion.
Their texture and taste will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Key Ingredients for Delicious Rolls
The foundation of these rolls lies in simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create magic.
A mix of all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and warm milk forms the base, while sugar and butter add richness to the flavor profile.
Two large eggs contribute to the texture, resulting in fluffy rolls that are sure to impress.
After baking, brushing the rolls with softened butter gives them that glossy appearance that makes them so visually appealing.
Together, these ingredients yield a batch of rolls that are not just tasty but also inviting to the eye.
Step-by-Step to Perfect Parker House Rolls
Creating the perfect Parker House Rolls involves a few key steps, from activating the yeast to shaping and baking the dough.
Starting with warm milk, sugar, and yeast, allow the mixture to foam, signaling that it’s ready to incorporate into the dough.
Next, mix in flour and salt, followed by melted butter and eggs, to form a smooth dough.
Kneading is essential to developing gluten, leading to that desirable fluffiness.
Once the dough has risen to double its size, divide it into equal pieces and shape them accordingly.
After a second rise, bake until golden brown, brushing the tops with butter for that final touch.
Serving and Enjoying Parker House Rolls
These rolls are best served warm, fresh out of the oven.
They’re perfect for soaking up gravies, sauces, or simply enjoyed with a spread of butter or honey.
Their versatility means they can be enjoyed alongside a variety of dishes, making them a staple for any meal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, Parker House Rolls will always elevate the dining experience.
Their tender texture and rich flavor make them not just a side, but a highlight of any meal.
Final Thoughts on Making Parker House Rolls
Mastering the art of Parker House Rolls is a rewarding endeavor.
With practice, anyone can achieve that bakery-quality softness and flavor right in their own kitchen.
These rolls are not just food; they represent warmth, family, and the joy of sharing a meal together.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful process of baking these scrumptious rolls.
The satisfaction of serving freshly baked Parker House Rolls will surely leave a lasting impression on everyone who enjoys them.
The Best Parker House Rolls Recipe
These Parker House Rolls are light, airy, and golden, with a rich buttery flavor. They have a slight sweetness that balances beautifully with savory dishes, making them an ideal accompaniment to soups, stews, or roasted meats.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F to 115°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened for brushing
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten it slightly. Fold the roll in half and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Brush the tops with softened butter immediately after baking.
- Serve: Enjoy these warm Parker House Rolls fresh out of the oven, perfect for soaking up sauces or spreading with your favorite toppings.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
