There’s nothing quite as comforting as coming home to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread, and that’s exactly what you’ll experience with these Potato Rolls – the softest, most buttery rolls you can imagine. Picture this: the golden crust cradling a pillowy, fluffy interior that practically melts in your mouth. As I first tasted these rolls at a friend’s gathering, my taste buds danced with delight, and I knew I had to recreate this delightful experience in my own kitchen.
If you’ve been stuck in a fast-food routine or just want to impress your family with homemade goodness, these potato rolls will be your new go-to recipe. Not only are they surprisingly easy to make, but they also elevate any meal, turning even the simplest dinner into a special occasion. With every bite, you’ll savor the rich butteriness that makes these rolls a true crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive into the steps to make these delicious homemade rolls that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why are Potato Rolls a Must-Try?
Unmatched Fluffiness: These rolls boast an incredibly soft texture, making them a joy to eat with any meal.
Irresistible Butteriness: Every bite is infused with rich, buttery flavor, perfect for pairing with soups or salads.
Quick and Simple: Ideal for bakers of all levels, the process is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
Perfect for Gathering: Serve them at family dinners or gatherings, and watch your loved ones rave about these delightful rolls.
Endless Versatility: Enjoy them fresh, toasted, or even as sandwich bread, making them a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
Transform your dining experience with these homemade potato rolls—your taste buds will thank you!
Potato Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• ¾ Cup Sugar – This sweetener enhances the flavor, making your potato rolls even more delightful.
• ¾ Cups Land O’Lakes Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich, creamy texture; feel free to substitute with any quality unsalted butter.
• 3 Cups Milk, scalded – Scalding the milk helps to activate the yeast and adds moisture to the rolls.
• 1 Cup Potato Flakes – The secret ingredient that gives these potato rolls their signature softness!
• 1 Tablespoon Salt – Enhances the flavor; salt is essential for balancing sweetness and richness.
• 1 Tablespoon Instant Yeast – This helps the dough rise quickly, giving you fluffy rolls without the wait.
• 4 Eggs – Adds richness and aids in achieving a tender texture.
• 7 Cups Flour – Use all-purpose flour for the best structure and fluffiness in your rolls.
• ⅓ Cup Additional Butter, softened – Brush on top for a beautiful finish and extra buttery flavor.
Now that you have the perfect blend of ingredients, let’s roll up our sleeves and start baking those heavenly potato rolls you’ll want to savor!
How to Make Potato Rolls
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Scald the milk. In a saucepan, heat the milk just until it starts to steam, then remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. This step is crucial for activating the yeast and ensuring fluffy rolls.
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Combine dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the sugar, salt, potato flakes, and instant yeast. Stir the dry ingredients together so they’re evenly distributed.
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Mix in the milk. Pour the cooled milk into the dry mixture and stir well until everything is blended together, creating a smooth base for your dough.
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Beat in the eggs. Crack the eggs into the mixture and beat them in until fully incorporated, adding richness and moisture to your dough.
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Gradually add the flour. Slowly mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will start to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
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Knead the dough. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft and pliable.
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Rise the dough. Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm area until it has doubled in size, approximately 1-2 hours.
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Shape the loaves. Once risen, punch down the dough gently and divide it into equal portions. Shape each portion into round loaves and place them in greased pans.
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Second rise. Cover the shaped loaves and let them rise again until they double in size, which should take another 30-60 minutes.
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Bake the rolls. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the potato rolls for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
Optional: Brush the tops with additional softened butter for a glossy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Potato Rolls Variations
Feel free to get creative with these potato rolls and make them your own—each twist brings a new flavor experience!
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Herbed Delight: Add 2 tablespoons of dried herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to infuse a fragrant twist that elevates the rolls’ aroma.
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Garlic Infusion: Mix in roasted garlic for a savory flavor boost. The rich, buttery garlic pairs beautifully with the soft rolls!
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Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate 1 cup of shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, for a deliciously gooey surprise in the center of each roll.
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Sweet Delight: Substitute ½ cup of sugar with honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness that enhances the rolls’ flavor profile.
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Whole Wheat Twist: Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and extra fiber without losing fluffiness.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the dough for a subtle spicy touch that warms the palate.
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Chocolate Chip Bliss: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for an unexpected dessert-style roll that’s perfect for brunch or as a sweet treat anytime.
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Nutty Texture: Mix in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to add a delightful crunch and layer of flavor with each bite.
How to Store and Freeze Potato Rolls
Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you want to store potato rolls for longer, they can last in the fridge for up to 1 week. Wrap them in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze potato rolls in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the oven until heated through.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the soft texture of your delicious potato rolls again!
Make Ahead Options
These Potato Rolls are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1 through 6, then covering the bowl tightly and refrigerating it. This slower rise not only saves you time but also enhances the flavor. On the day you plan to enjoy your rolls, take the dough out of the fridge, shape it into loaves, and let them rise for 30-60 minutes before baking. This way, you’ll have fresh, fluffy rolls ready to warm your heart—and your dinner table—with minimal effort! Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of freshly baked Potato Rolls without the last-minute rush.
Expert Tips for Potato Rolls
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Perfect Temperature: Use lukewarm milk, around 110°F, to activate the instant yeast effectively. If the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast.
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Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. This develops the gluten, ensuring fluffy potato rolls.
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Check for Doneness: Bake until golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped. Underbaking can result in dense rolls, so trust your senses!
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Avoid Overrising: Keep an eye on the dough during the rising phases. If it doubles in size for too long, the structure can collapse, affecting your potato rolls’ texture.
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Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your instant yeast. Fresh yeast leads to better rise and fluffiness in your rolls.
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Butter Brushing: For extra buttery flavor, brush the tops with softened butter after baking. It gives a beautiful finish and enhances the rolls’ appeal.
What to Serve with Potato Yeast Bread?
Imagine a cozy dinner setting, where the warm, buttery aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, enticing your senses in the most comforting way.
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Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, velvety texture pairs perfectly with the fluffy yeast bread, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
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Savory Beef Stew: Rich and hearty, the tender chunks of beef and vegetables are a classic choice that complements the soft, buttery rolls beautifully.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp, crunchy greens add brightness to your meal, balancing the rich flavors of the potato bread. The refreshing vinaigrette elevates the overall experience.
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Honey Butter Spread: A sweet and creamy spread that enhances the flavor of the rolls, making every bite a heavenly indulgence.
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Homemade Vegetable Soup: The warm, comforting soup provides a cozy accompaniment, perfect for dipping those soft rolls into warm goodness.
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Cheddar Cheese Platter: A variety of sharp and creamy cheeses provide an exciting contrast to the rolls, offering diverse textures and tastes that spark joy in every mouthful.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: This refreshing, bubbly drink adds a delightful sweetness that elevates the overall meal experience, making it perfect for gatherings.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, nothing says comfort like warm, gooey cookies that evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, round out your meal perfectly.
Potato Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for potato rolls?
Absolutely! I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for your potato rolls. They produce a fluffier texture, making your rolls even softer. Just make sure they are well-cooked before mashing or using as flakes to maintain that delightful consistency!
How should I store leftover potato rolls?
Once your potato rolls cool down, the best way to store them is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, wrapped in plastic wrap, which keeps them fresh for up to a week.
Can I freeze potato rolls? How do I do it correctly?
Yes, you can freeze potato rolls! After they have fully cooled, place them in a resealable freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If you’re having trouble with the dough rising, check the temperature of your liquid ingredients. Ensure your milk is warm but not hot (around 110°F is perfect) when you add the yeast. If the yeast is expired, that could be the culprit too! Your dough should visibly double in size if everything is working properly. Be patient; sometimes it just needs a bit more time!
Are potato rolls suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Unfortunately, traditional potato rolls are not gluten-free due to the flour used. However, I often make a gluten-free variation by substituting a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and following similar steps. Ensure that your yeast and other ingredients are gluten-free as well if you’re making this adaptation for dietary needs.
Can I add herbs or cheese to my potato rolls?
Very much! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor. You can mix in shredded cheese or even garlic for a twist. Just remember to balance the additional ingredients, as too much could affect the dough’s rise and texture! Experimenting is part of the fun!
Potato Rolls: Softest, Most Buttery Rolls You’ll Ever Taste
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Scald the milk in a saucepan, then let it cool slightly.
- Combine the dry ingredients: sugar, salt, potato flakes, and instant yeast.
- Mix the cooled milk into the dry ingredients until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl to rise for 1-2 hours.
- Punch down, divide, and shape into loaves.
- Let the shaped loaves rise for another 30-60 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.