Sourdough dinner rolls bring together the tangy flavour of sourdough with the soft, fluffy texture of classic dinner rolls. Perfect for any meal, these rolls add a touch of homemade charm to your table. The natural fermentation process not only enhances the taste but also makes them easier to digest. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or a bread-making novice, these rolls are a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.

What are Sourdough Dinner Rolls

Baking these sourdough dinner rolls is a rewarding process, filled with the rich aroma of freshly baked bread. The recipe involves a bit of patience, allowing the dough to ferment and develop its signature flavour. Once baked, the rolls are golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for soaking up soups, stews, or accompanying your favourite dishes.

Try this Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread Recipe

Soft Sourdough Dinner Rolls Recipe

Recipe by Eric

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Total time

4

hours 

55

minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter

• 1 cup (240ml) warm water

• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar

• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg

• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

• 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (for brushing)

Instructions:

• Activate the Starter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Stir well and let it sit for about 10 minutes until slightly bubbly.
• Prepare the Dough: Add the melted butter, egg, and salt to the starter mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
• Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 3-4 hours, or until doubled in size.
• Shape the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.
• Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with milk. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Ideas for Serving

• Serve warm with butter for a classic side.
• Use them as a base for mini sandwiches or sliders.
• Pair with soups or stews to soak up the delicious broths.
• Serve as a side for holiday meals or family gatherings.

Nutritional Information (per roll)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

History

Sourdough has been around for thousands of years, with origins tracing back to ancient Egypt. The naturally occurring yeast and bacteria in sourdough starter not only leaven the bread but also give it its distinctively tangy flavour. Sourdough dinner rolls are a modern adaptation, bringing the traditional sourdough process to a more familiar and versatile form. These rolls combine the benefits of sourdough with the convenience of dinner rolls, making them a beloved choice for many homebakers.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. This slow fermentation can enhance the flavour even more.

Q: What if I don’t have a sourdough starter?

A: You can make your starter by mixing equal parts flour and water and letting it ferment for about a week, or you can ask a friend or buy one from a bakery.

Q: How do I store leftover rolls?

A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls and reheat them when needed.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a portion of the all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. Adjust the hydration as needed.