Best-ever yeast rolls
These legendary yeast rolls are the gold standard for Southern baking, prized for their pillowy texture and rich, buttery flavor. Made with a blend of butter and shortening for ultimate tenderness, they feature a subtle sweetness that makes them perfect for dipping in gravy or enjoying with honey. The dough is enriched with eggs and sugar, creating a soft crumb that stays fresh longer than standard breads. Whether served at a holiday feast, a casual weeknight dinner, or a festive brunch, these rolls bring warmth and comfort to the table. Their golden crust and fluffy interior make them an irresistible addition to any meal, earning their "best-ever" reputation through generations of home cooks.
Description
These legendary yeast rolls are the gold standard for Southern baking, prized for their pillowy texture and rich, buttery flavor. Made with a blend of butter and shortening for ultimate tenderness, they feature a subtle sweetness that makes them perfect for dipping in gravy or enjoying with honey. The dough is enriched with eggs and sugar, creating a soft crumb that stays fresh longer than standard breads. Whether served at a holiday feast, a casual weeknight dinner, or a festive brunch, these rolls bring warmth and comfort to the table. Their golden crust and fluffy interior make them an irresistible addition to any meal, earning their "best-ever" reputation through generations of home cooks.
Ingredients
- 2 pkg dry yeast
- 2/3 cup sugar, divided
- 1 cup warm water (105-115 degrees F)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 6-7 cups all-purpose flour, divided
Directions
- 1 Dissolve yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in 1 cup warm water; let stand about 5 minutes until foamy.
- 2
Combine remaining sugar, salt, butter, and shortening in a large bowl.- 3
Add boiling water, stirring until butter and shortening melt. Cool slightly.- 4
Add dissolved yeast, stirring well. Add eggs and 3 cups flour, beating at medium speed of an electric mixer until smooth.- 5
Gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.- 6
Place in a well-greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees F), free from drafts, 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in bulk.- 7
Punch dough down; turn dough out onto a well-floured surface, and knead several times.- 8
Shape into 2-inch balls, and place in 3 greased 9-inch round pans.- 9
Cover and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees F), free from drafts, 30 to 40 minutes or until doubled in bulk.- 10
Bake at 325 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden.NoteYield: 3 dozen rolls.
Variations: This basic dough can be used for Sweet Yeast Braid, Sweet-Filled Yeast Loaves, and Sweet Pinwheel Rolls.
Fillings: Try Cinnamon-Cheese Filling, Orange-Cheese Filling, or Chocolate-Cheese Filling.
Toppings: Drizzle with Sugar Glaze if desired.
Storage: Allow rolls to cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
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