Thanksgiving Rolls

As the chill of fall settles in and leaves begin to turn, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through your home. Thanksgiving rolls are more than just a side dish; they are a warm hug, a nostalgic symbol of family gatherings, and a vehicle for savoring butter and jam. These soft, pillowy rolls, with their golden-brown tops and tender interiors, are irresistibly crave-worthy.

Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also offer a kid-friendly experience that every family member will love. Whether you’re gathering around the table for Thanksgiving dinner or hosting a casual get-together, these rolls will create memories that linger long after the last bite. A touch of flaky sea salt on top elevates the experience even further, making these Thanksgiving rolls an essential part of your culinary repertoire.

Are you ready to dive into that warm, buttery goodness?

Just imagine biting into a freshly baked roll, the steam wafting up as you tear it apart, and the rich aroma enveloping you. Isn’t it tempting to enjoy this mouthwatering moment each holiday season? Whether you’re creating a Thanksgiving tradition, seeking comfort in familiar flavors, or yearning for a quick bread fix, these rolls will satisfy your cravings and make your taste buds dance with delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Thanksgiving rolls aren’t just delightful; they come packed with benefits that elevate your baking game:

Easy Prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip these rolls up in no time.
Perfect for Crowds: With twelve generous pieces, they are ideal for gatherings, ensuring there’s plenty of fluffiness to go around.
Kid-Friendly: Children will love shaping the dough into smooth balls, making them a fun and engaging way to get everyone involved in the kitchen.
Indulgent Flavor: Who can resist a soft, buttery roll sprinkled with flaky sea salt? Pair it with your favorite spreads or serve alongside your favorite holiday dishes.

Ingredients

To embark on your Thanksgiving rolls journey, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup whole milk, warmed to create that comforting, soothing texture.
2 1/4 tsp. dry active yeast, which will give your rolls that delightful, airy fluffiness.
2 Tbsp. granulated sugar, divided, to sweeten the dough just right.
1 large egg, at room temperature, adding richness to every bite.
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, balancing the sweetness and enhancing flavors.
6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted, divided, ensuring a luscious mouthfeel and golden crust.
3 1/4 cups all-purpose or bread flour, divided, forming the backbone of your rolls’ structure.
Neutral oil or cooking spray, for greasing, ensuring an easy release from pans.
Flaky sea salt, optional, but highly recommended for that added crunch and burst of flavor on top.

Timing

Balancing the rush of preparing a Thanksgiving feast can be a challenge. However, these rolls strike that golden balance between indulgence and speed. Approximately two hours of your time, including rising periods, and you’ll have delicious, warm rolls ready to grace your dinner table. Picture spending lazy autumn afternoons in your kitchen, allowing the rolls to rise and fill your home with warmth.

For those who prefer a more luxurious experience, you can let your rolls rise slowly overnight in the fridge, turning them into a magical breakfast treat on Thanksgiving morning!

Step-by-Step

1. In a small heatproof bowl, microwave the milk in 30-second increments until an instant-read thermometer registers 110 degrees Fahrenheit or until warm to the touch. Pour the warmed milk into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook. Add the yeast and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and whisk to combine. Allow the mixture to sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.

2. Next, incorporate the egg, salt, 4 tablespoons of melted butter, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is well combined, about 30 seconds. Gradually add 1 cup of flour and mix until combined, another 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula and add the remaining 2 1/4 cups of flour. Beat on medium speed until the dough comes together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl, roughly 1 minute. Continue to beat for about 3 minutes more until the dough is smoother and more elastic.

3. Lightly grease a large bowl with neutral oil. Carefully scrape the dough into the bowl and toss to coat it lightly in oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, which should take about 1 hour.

4. While the dough is rising, generously grease a 13-inch by 9-inch baking pan with oil or cooking spray. Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 12 pieces of about 70 grams each. Shape each piece into smooth, round balls and arrange them in the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let rise again in a warm place until puffed, typically around 1 hour.

5. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, positioning a rack in the lower third. Bake the rolls, rotating them halfway through and tenting with foil if they brown too quickly, until the tops are gloriously golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes.

6. As soon as they exit the oven, brush the tops with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Allow them to cool slightly – if you can resist!

Nutritional Information

Each roll contains approximately 150 calories – pure indulgence wrapped in pillowy delight! Keep in mind that the occasional treat is a beautiful part of life, especially when shared with loved ones during meaningful gatherings.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten up your Thanksgiving rolls? Consider these swaps:

Low-Sugar Options: Substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like honey or maple syrup, adjusting the wet ingredient amount slightly.
Dairy-Free Swaps: Replace whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version that still satisfies.
Gluten-Free Flour: For those with dietary restrictions, a gluten-free flour blend can make these rolls accessible to everyone at your holiday table.

Serving Suggestions

These Thanksgiving rolls shine on their own, but they also love to make friends with a variety of accompaniments. Spread on rich, creamy butter or pair them with heavenly jam for a breakfast treat. They also excel at mopping up gravy or sauce during your Thanksgiving feast, enhancing every element of your holiday meal.

Imagine serving them alongside turkey, stuffing, and all the classic trimmings – a truly satisfying culinary experience that everyone will remember!

Common Mistakes

To ensure that your Thanksgiving rolls turn out heavenly, watch for these common pitfalls:

Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the rolls as they bake; even a minute too long can turn them from golden brown perfection to dry and crusty.
Texture Issues: Failing to knead the dough enough can result in flat, dense rolls, while over-kneading can create a tough texture.
Messes: Flour can fly, so consider weighing your ingredients for precision and cleanliness. A tidy workspace makes for a more pleasant baking experience.

Storing Tips

These rolls deserve some care to keep their freshness long after baking:

Freezing Portions: After the rolls cool completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions: Reheat frozen rolls by wrapping them in foil and placing them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they emerge warm and inviting.

Tempting you to bake it ASAP

Thanksgiving rolls are not just food; they’re a celebration of flavors and memories that make the holiday special. As soon as you finish reading this, gather those simple ingredients, embrace the warmth of your kitchen, and let the aroma of freshly baked rolls transform your home into a cozy haven. You won’t just be baking; you’ll be creating moments to cherish and share.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough overnight and shape it into rolls in the morning.
How do I know when the rolls are baked?

The tops will be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat, but it may alter the texture slightly.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Ensure your yeast is active. If it doesn’t foam in the milk during activation, the yeast may be expired.
How do I keep the rolls soft?

Storing them in an airtight container after they cool will help maintain their softness.

These Thanksgiving rolls will undoubtedly be the highlight of your holiday, leaving a delightful taste that will make everyone crave them year after year!