Irresistible Sourdough Dinner Rolls: The Perfect Addition to Any Meal!
Sourdough dinner rolls bring a delightful twist to traditional dinner rolls, combining a soft, fluffy texture with a mild tangy flavor that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, holiday gathering, or just looking to impress guests, these rolls will make an incredible addition to your table.
Why Choose Sourdough Dinner Rolls?
Sourdough rolls aren’t just tasty—they’re a healthier choice, too! With natural fermentation, sourdough is often easier to digest and has a unique flavor profile that elevates any dish. Plus, they’re a great way to use your sourdough starter!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For these delicious sourdough dinner rolls, gather the following ingredients:
- Active sourdough starter – 100g (about ½ cup)
- Warm milk – 240ml (1 cup)
- Unsalted butter – 60g (¼ cup), melted
- Sugar – 2 tbsp
- Bread flour – 450g (3 ½ cups)
- Salt – 1 ½ tsp
- Egg – 1 large, for brushing the tops
Pro Tip: Using bread flour gives the rolls a slightly chewier texture. If you prefer a softer roll, try substituting part of the bread flour with all-purpose flour.
Step-by-Step Sourdough Dinner Roll Recipe
1. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm milk, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until well-mixed. Gradually add the bread flour and salt, mixing until you have a smooth dough.
Pro Tip: Milk should be warm, not hot! If the milk is too hot, it can harm the beneficial bacteria in your sourdough starter.
2. Knead and Rest
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball and place it back in the bowl, covering it with a damp cloth.
- First Rise: Let the dough rest in a warm place for about 4-6 hours, or until it doubles in size. The timing will vary based on room temperature and the strength of your starter.
Pro Tip: If your kitchen is on the colder side, place the dough in an oven with the light on to create a warm environment for rising.
3. Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
- Arrange the balls in a greased baking dish, spacing them slightly apart for even baking.
The Final Proof
Cover the shaped rolls and allow them to proof for about 1-2 hours, until they have expanded and are touching each other.
Pro Tip: Don’t rush this step! The final proof gives the rolls that light and fluffy texture we’re aiming for.
Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with a beaten egg. This will give them a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Pro Tip: Rotate the baking dish halfway through to ensure even browning.
Serving & Storing Your Sourdough Rolls
Serve your sourdough dinner rolls warm with butter, or use them to mop up delicious gravies and sauces. These rolls freeze well; just allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight bag in the freezer.
Bonus Tip: Try brushing the rolls with garlic butter when they’re fresh out of the oven for an extra layer of flavor!
Sourdough Dinner Rolls FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can shape the rolls and refrigerate them overnight for a slow rise, then bake them fresh the next day. This allows for an even deeper flavor profile!
What if I don’t have an active sourdough starter?
No worries! There are plenty of starter recipes online, or you can borrow from a friend to get going. Sourdough is a community tradition—sharing starters has been part of the magic for generations!
These sourdough dinner rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleasers and add a touch of homemade elegance to any meal. Get ready to savor the delightful flavor and texture of freshly baked sourdough, and wow your family and friends!
