Perfect Parker House Rolls Recipe
A foolproof method delivers tender, buttery layers for homemade rolls everyone will love.
Introduction to Parker House Rolls
Parker House Rolls are a classic American bread known for their soft texture and delicious flavor. Originating from the Boston Parker House (now the Omni Parker House), these rolls have been a staple in American cuisine for over a century. They are characterized by their buttery, flaky layers and are often served at special occasions or family gatherings.
Why Make Parker House Rolls
Despite their rich history, Parker House Rolls are surprisingly accessible to make at home. They require minimal kneading and can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient choice for busy households. The process involves mixing yeast, flour, milk, and eggs to create a dough that is then rolled and folded to achieve the signature buttery layers.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need:
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water (around 110°F to 120°F)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a medium bowl, gently whisk the yeast into the warm water. Add the sugar and let it sit for about a minute until it starts to froth. Stir in 1 cup of flour and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it sit in a warm place until it becomes bubbly.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, blend the melted butter and milk. Add the eggs one by one on low speed. Add the yeast mixture and the remaining flour. Mix until the dough forms a ball. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour as needed.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased metal bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This should take about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into an 8-by-16-inch rectangle. Cut it lengthwise into two strips and then cut each strip into 12 pieces. You should end up with 24 rolls.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between them. Brush with melted butter and bake until golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips and Variations
For extra flavor, you can brush the rolls with egg wash or additional melted butter before baking. If you want to make them ahead, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why are Parker House Rolls so buttery?
A: The buttery flavor comes from folding and rolling the dough multiple times, creating layers of butter within the roll.
Q: Can I make Parker House Rolls without a stand mixer?
What others are reading
A: Yes, you can make them without a stand mixer by hand-kneading the dough. This might require more effort but yields similar results.
Q: How do I store leftover Parker House Rolls?
A: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month and thaw at room temperature when needed.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3gYvR3MUnc
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11296/pw-dinner-rolls-no-kneading-required/
- http://bakingintotheether.com/2013/09/13/parker-house-rolls-the-pioneer-woman-%E3%80%86%E3%83%BB%E2%88%80%E3%83%BB%EF%BC%A0/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a9585/parker-house-rolls/
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