How to Make Sourdough Dinner Rolls at Home
Imagine the warm aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, its crisp exterior and soft, airy inside just waiting to be torn apart and enjoyed. There’s a reason that homemade sourdough dinner rolls are a beloved staple—they bring a touch of warmth, comfort, and connection to every meal. And while making sourdough from scratch may seem intimidating, it’s a rewarding process that brings you closer to the art of baking. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the world of sourdough, this guide will walk you through each step to create delicious, fluffy rolls with ease.
So, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and bake?
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need for Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Before you dive into the actual baking process, gathering the right tools and ingredients is essential. This will set you up for a smoother experience and ensure that your rolls turn out just right.
Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Mixing bowl – A large one to accommodate your dough as it rises.
- Baking sheet or cast iron pan – Helps achieve an even bake.
- Bench scraper or knife – Handy for portioning the dough.
- Kitchen scale (optional but recommended) – Ensures precise measurements.
Ingredients
Making sourdough dinner rolls calls for a few key ingredients. If you’re familiar with sourdough baking, you might already have most of these on hand. Here’s a breakdown:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Active sourdough starter | 1 cup |
| Bread flour | 3 ½ cups |
| Warm water | 1 ¼ cups |
| Salt | 2 tsp |
| Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Butter (melted) | 4 tbsp |
With these ingredients ready, you’re well-equipped to make your rolls. Now, let’s take a quick look at preparing your starter.
Preparing Your Sourdough Starter (If Needed)
A lively, active sourdough starter is key to getting that distinctive tang and perfect rise in your dinner rolls. If you already have a well-fed starter, you’re good to go. If not, follow these steps to ensure your starter is at its peak:
- Feed Your Starter: Add equal parts flour and water to your starter, stirring until smooth.
- Let it Sit: Place your starter in a warm spot for 4-6 hours. It should be bubbly and double in size.
- Check Readiness: A simple way to test is by taking a small spoonful of starter and dropping it into water. If it floats, it’s ready to use.
Having a well-prepared starter will set the stage for beautifully risen, flavorful dinner rolls.
Step-By-Step Guide to Making Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Now that everything is prepped, let’s move into the fun part—making the rolls! Follow each step carefully for the best results.
Step 1: Mix the Dough
- Combine Starter, Water, and Sugar: In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Stir well until the starter is fully dissolved.
- Add Flour Gradually: Slowly add the bread flour, stirring as you go. This will create a shaggy, sticky dough.
- Let Rest: Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 30 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb the water, making the dough easier to handle in the next step.
Step 2: Knead and Add Butter
- Knead the Dough: Begin kneading the dough in the bowl or on a clean surface for about 10 minutes. This will help develop gluten, giving the rolls a light and fluffy texture.
- Incorporate Butter and Salt: Add the melted butter and salt, continuing to knead until fully incorporated. This step may take a few minutes as the dough becomes softer and more elastic.
Step 3: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
- Cover and Rest: Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 4-6 hours in a warm place.
- Watch for Doubling: The dough should double in size. If your kitchen is cooler, it may take a little longer, so be patient.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
- Divide the Dough: Gently deflate the dough and use a bench scraper or knife to divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Shape Each Roll: Take each piece and fold the edges to the center, creating a smooth, round ball.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet or in a cast iron pan, leaving a little space between each one.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover and Let Rise: Cover the rolls with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 2-3 hours. They should puff up and just begin to touch each other.
- Check Readiness: Gently press a roll with your fingertip—it should slowly spring back.
Step 6: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) about 15 minutes before baking.
- Brush with Butter: Just before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter for a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the rolls in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are a deep golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving—if you can resist!
Tips for Perfect Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Making sourdough dinner rolls is a bit of an art, but with these extra tips, you can achieve bakery-quality results:
- Ideal Temperature for Rising: For best results, aim to let the dough rise in a warm spot around 70°F (21°C). This helps develop flavor without rushing the process.
- Storing Your Rolls: Fresh sourdough rolls are best enjoyed within 1-2 days. For longer storage, wrap them well and freeze for up to three months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm rolls, place them in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
These little details can make a big difference in both the taste and texture of your rolls.
Common Issues and Solutions for Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Even experienced bakers face challenges with sourdough from time to time. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
- Dense Rolls: If your rolls turn out dense, they may need more time to rise. Ensure you’re allowing enough time for both the first and second rise.
- Overly Sour Flavor: If your rolls taste too tangy, this may be due to an over-fermented starter. Regularly feed your starter to keep its flavor balanced.
- Sticky Dough: Sourdough dough can be sticky. Add a bit of flour to your hands or workspace as you shape the rolls, but avoid adding too much flour, as this can dry them out.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sourdough Dinner Rolls
When baking sourdough rolls, some common questions come up. Here are answers to help you along:
Can I Make Sourdough Dinner Rolls without a Starter?
A traditional sourdough recipe relies on a starter to achieve that characteristic flavor. However, if you don’t have a starter, you can substitute with commercial yeast, though the flavor and texture will be different.
How Long Does It Take to Make Sourdough Dinner Rolls?
The process takes around 8-10 hours from start to finish, most of which is inactive rising time. For a faster version, consider preparing the dough the night before and baking the next day.
What Flour Works Best for Sourdough Dinner Rolls?
Bread flour is ideal because it has a higher protein content, which supports gluten development and creates a chewier texture. All-purpose flour can work, but the rolls may turn out softer.
Can I Make These Rolls in Advance?
Yes! To prepare rolls in advance, par-bake them for 15 minutes, let them cool, and freeze. When ready to serve, bake for an additional 10 minutes to warm and finish browning.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Rewards of Homemade Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Baking sourdough dinner rolls at home is more than just following a recipe—it’s a journey in flavor and tradition. With each roll, you’re enjoying a blend of skills, patience, and heart. Whether you’re sharing them at a family dinner or indulging on a quiet weekend, these rolls are worth the effort. So, why not give it a try?
