Sunday dinner was a big deal when I was growing up. It was when our family would all come together for a big meal. Dinner rolls were a key part of that tradition.
This recipe is the sourdough version of those classic dinner rolls. They are light, fluffy, and 100% sourdough. Plus, they’re easy to make, proof, and bake in just one day. They’re the perfect choice for any family dinner.
Making sourdough dinner rolls is simple and great for family dinners. They turn out soft and pillowy, perfect for enjoying warm. This recipe is a favorite for its natural fermentation and use of 100% sourdough.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy sourdough dinner roll. Its tangy flavor adds to your favorite meal. These sourdough dinner rolls bring comfort and a unique taste to any table. What makes them stand out?
What Makes These Sourdough Dinner Rolls Special
The secret to these easy sourdough rolls is their simple recipe and the sourdough starter’s fermentation. With just a few ingredients – sourdough starter, flour, milk, butter, sugar, and salt – you can make soft, pillowy rolls. The sourdough starter adds flavor, probiotics, and better digestibility.
Making these rolls is easy. Mix the dough, let it rise, shape the rolls, and bake them. You’ll get homemade sourdough bread that impresses everyone. These rolls go well with many meals, from roasted chicken to stews.
http://We couldn’t find any internal links in your content.“These sourdough dinner rolls are the perfect accompaniment to any meal, adding a touch of rustic elegance and incredible flavor.”
So, whether you’re experienced with sourdough or new to it, these sourdough dinner rolls will amaze you. They make any meal special.
Sourdough Dinner Rolls Baker’s Timeline
Baking with sourdough needs more planning and patience than using commercial yeast. The sourdough dough timeline for these delicious dinner rolls is key for the perfect texture and rise. Let’s explore the sourdough baking schedule to ensure each step is timed perfectly.
- Mix the Levain: Begin by making the sourdough starter, or levain. Mix your active sourdough starter with flour and water. The levain needs to ferment overnight, which takes 10-12 hours.
- Bulk Fermentation: Once the levain is ready, mix it with the rest of the dough ingredients. This bulk fermentation stage lasts for about 4 hours at a temperature of 78-80°F.
- Shape the Rolls: After the dough has fermented, it’s time to shape it into individual dinner rolls. This step is crucial for achieving the desired shape and texture.
- Proof the Rolls: The shaped rolls then need to proof, or rise, for 3-4 hours before baking. This final proofing stage is essential for the rolls to achieve their signature fluffy texture.
- Bake the Rolls: Finally, the rolls are baked at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 200°F. This ensures the perfect golden-brown crust and soft, pillowy interior.
By following this sourdough dough timeline, you’ll be able to bake a batch of delicious, homemade sourdough dinner rolls that are sure to impress your guests. Remember, the key to success is patience and paying close attention to the rising and proofing times.
| Step | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Mix Levain | 10-12 hours | – |
| Bulk Fermentation | 4 hours | 78-80°F |
| Proof Rolls | 3-4 hours | – |
| Bake Rolls | 25-30 minutes | 400°F |
By following this sourdough baking schedule, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying fresh, homemade sourdough dinner rolls that are sure to delight your senses. The patience and attention to detail required for this process are well worth the effort.
Ingredients for Sourdough Dinner Rolls
To make tasty sourdough dinner rolls, you need a few important ingredients. Let’s explore what makes these rolls so unique.
Levain (Sourdough Starter)
The heart of these rolls is the levain, or sourdough starter. It’s a mix of flour and water that’s fermented. This gives the bread its tangy taste and makes it rise.
For the best results, use a sourdough starter that’s at least 5 days old. This ensures it’s active and ready to go.
Other Key Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: High-protein all-purpose flour, around 11% protein content, forms the base of the dough.
- Whole Milk: Warmed whole milk adds richness and tenderness to the rolls.
- Eggs: A single large egg provides structure and a tender crumb.
- Butter: Softened or partially melted butter enhances the flavor and texture of the rolls.
- Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar balances the sourness of the sourdough.
- Salt: Fine sea salt, or table salt in half the amount, seasons the dough.
- Yeast: A small amount of active dry yeast complements the sourdough starter’s leavening power.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to bake delicious sourdough dinner rolls at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to bake delicious sourdough dinner rolls? Follow this easy guide. We’ll cover mixing the levain, shaping, and baking. Let’s get started!
Mix the Levain
To start, make a levain, a sourdough starter. Mix your active starter with flour and water from the recipe in a bowl. Cover it and let it ferment for 8-12 hours at room temperature. It should be bubbly and doubled in size.
Mix the Dough and Begin Bulk Fermentation
When your levain is ready, mix the dough. In a big bowl, add the levain, flour, water, and other ingredients. Knead for 5-10 minutes until smooth. Then, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it ferment for 1-2 hours. It should double in size.
Shape the Dough
After fermenting, punch down the dough to get rid of air bubbles. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each into a smooth, round roll. Put the rolls in a greased baking pan or on parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
Proof the Rolls
Cover the rolls and let them proof for 1-2 hours. They should puff up and almost double in size. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) for the last 30 minutes.
Baking Sourdough Dinner Rolls
When ready, bake the rolls for 17-21 minutes. They should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 195°F (91°C). Brush with melted butter for a shiny finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
sourdough dinner rolls recipe
Sourdough Starter and Bread Flour
The secret to these delectable sourdough dinner rolls lies in the use of a ripe, active sourdough starter. This levain, fermented overnight, provides the foundation for the bread’s distinctive flavor and chewy texture. Combined with warm milk, sugar, butter, salt, cornstarch, and high-quality bread flour, the sourdough starter creates a dough that rises to perfection.
This dough results in soft, pillowy rolls that are sure to impress. To achieve the desired loftiness and sturdy structure, the recipe calls for unbleached bread flour. This type of flour, with its higher protein content, helps the dough develop a strong gluten network.
Ensuring the rolls rise beautifully and maintain their shape during baking.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sourdough Starter | 113 grams |
| Bread Flour | 420 grams |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 60 grams |
| Milk | 226 grams |
| Cane Sugar | 28 grams |
| Unsalted Butter | 56 grams |
| Salt | 7 grams |
| Cornstarch | 7 grams |
With the right combination of sourdough starter and bread flour, you’ll be well on your way to crafting the perfect sourdough dinner rolls recipe that your family and friends will love.
Tips for Perfect Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Making perfectly baked sourdough dinner rolls is a fun challenge. Here are some tips to help you make delicious sourdough rolls every time:
Scoring the Rolls
Scoring the dough is key to beautiful sourdough rolls. Scoring lets the dough expand and rise evenly. This makes your rolls look like they were made by a pro.
Use a sharp knife or lame to make clean cuts on the top of each roll before baking.
- Aim for 1-2 shallow scores per roll, about 1/4-inch deep.
- Score the rolls diagonally or in a cross-hatch pattern for a classic look.
- Be confident with your scoring technique – a light, decisive touch is key.
Scoring not only makes your rolls look great. It also helps the inside structure develop, making the rolls soft and airy.
By following these tips for sourdough rolls, you’ll make golden, perfectly-shaped sourdough dinner rolls. They’ll impress your family and friends.
Substitutions and Variations
Baking sourdough dinner rolls offers many chances to get creative. You can try different ingredients to make the recipe your own. Let’s look at some ways to customize this recipe.
Flour Alternatives
If you don’t have bread flour, all-purpose flour works too. The rolls might be a bit softer, but they’ll still taste great.
Sweetener Swaps
Want to change the sweetness level? Try using maple syrup, agave, or brown sugar instead of honey. Just adjust the amount to your liking.
Savory Additions
- Replace fresh sage with rosemary, thyme, or your favorite herbs.
- Add shredded cheese like cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
- For a crunchy touch, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top.
Enriched Dough
For a richer roll, use whole milk instead of water or add more egg yolks. Just make sure the dough isn’t too wet.
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Bread Flour | All-purpose flour |
| Honey | Maple syrup, agave, brown sugar |
| Fresh Sage | Rosemary, thyme, herb blend |
| Whole Milk | 2% milk, low-fat milk, plant-based milk |
| Eggs | Additional egg yolks |
Trying new ingredients and methods is what makes sourdough baking fun. Enjoy experimenting with sourdough roll variations and sourdough baking substitutions to find what you and your family love.
Storing and Serving Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Enjoying freshly baked sourdough dinner rolls is a true delight. But what about the leftovers? Don’t worry, these rolls can be stored and served in many ways. This ensures you can enjoy their flavor even after the first meal.
Storing Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Leftover sourdough dinner rolls can be stored at room temperature for up to a day. They will stay soft and chewy. For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to a week. You can even freeze the baked rolls for up to 3 months.
Serving Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Sourdough dinner rolls are great with any meal. Serve them warm with a hearty stew, roasted meats, or creamy soups. Try slicing them in half for mini sandwiches with your favorite fillings.
If you have sourdough roll leftovers, you can use them in many ways. Tear them into bite-sized pieces for a salad. Or cube them for a savory bread pudding or stuffing.
| Storing Sourdough Dinner Rolls | Serving Sourdough Dinner Rolls |
|---|---|
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Properly storing sourdough rolls and finding creative ways to serve sourdough rolls ensures they are enjoyed fully. Even days after baking, your homemade rolls will still be a delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting your sourdough dinner roll journey? You might have questions. We’ve got answers! Let’s explore the most common questions about these tasty homemade bread rolls.
How long does the sourdough starter take to activate?
The time it takes for your sourdough starter to activate can vary. It depends on the temperature. On average, it becomes active and bubbly in 6-12 hours at room temperature. But, it might take up to 24 hours for some starters.
Watch your starter closely. Look for more bubbles and gluten to know it’s ready.
Can I use a refrigerated sourdough starter?
Yes, you can! Sourdough starters can stay in the fridge for a long time. Just feed it with fresh flour and water when you’re ready to use it. Feed it at least once every 12 hours when bringing it back to life.
With proper care, a sourdough starter can last weeks or even months in the fridge.
How can I tell if my sourdough starter is healthy?
A healthy starter is active, bubbly, and doubles in size in 6-12 hours. It should smell yeasty and slightly sour. If it’s slow, not rising much, or smells bad, it might need more care.
Why is my dough not rising properly?
There are a few reasons why your dough might not be rising. First, check if your starter is active and healthy. A weak starter can slow down dough development.
Also, make sure the room is warm enough. A cooler room can slow down fermentation. And, don’t over-proof the dough, as that can also prevent it from rising well.
| Troubleshooting Tip | Solution |
|---|---|
| Sluggish Starter | Feed the starter more frequently or provide a larger feeding to boost its activity. |
| Cool Room Temperature | Allow the dough to ferment in a warmer spot, or consider using a proofer or oven with the light on. |
| Over-Proofing | Be mindful of the proofing times and don’t let the dough over-rise before baking. |
By fixing these common issues, you’ll get beautifully risen, perfectly baked sourdough dinner rolls.
Conclusion
These easy sourdough dinner rolls are great for any family dinner. They only need a few ingredients and simple steps. You’ll get warm, fluffy rolls with a delicious sourdough taste.
They’re perfect with a stew, roasted chicken, or just butter. These rolls will be a favorite at any meal.
The sourdough fermentation adds health benefits. Try this sourdough bread baking recipe for homemade homemade sourdough rolls. Focus on quality ingredients and detail for a side dish that impresses.
Whether you’re experienced or new to sourdough dinner rolls, this recipe is easy and rewarding. Dive into sourdough bread baking and enjoy these irresistible rolls.