Sourdough dinner rolls are simple to make and great for family dinners. They turn out soft and fluffy, perfect for enjoying warm. These rolls will be the star of your meal.
This recipe is a favorite for its natural fermentation and use of 100% sourdough. Sunday dinners were a big deal when I was growing up, and dinner rolls were a must-have. Now, you can enjoy the same comfort with these sourdough rolls.
The recipe is easy to follow, with all steps done in one day. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a cozy meal at home.
What Makes These Sourdough Dinner Rolls Special?
These light and fluffy sourdough rolls are truly unique. They’re made with 100% sourdough fermentation and are easy to make. The sourdough starter adds a tangy flavor and a soft, pillowy crumb that will wow your guests.
Light and Fluffy Texture
The light and fluffy texture comes from the fermentation. The sourdough starter makes the rolls airy and tender. You don’t need to knead a lot or use complicated methods. Just simple steps for amazing results.
100% Sourdough Fermentation
These 100% sourdough rolls use a homemade starter instead of commercial yeast. This slow fermentation boosts flavor and makes the bread easier to digest. Every bite is a true artisanal sourdough experience.
Easy to Make
Despite their high quality, these easy sourdough dinner rolls are simple to make. The recipe needs little kneading and comes together fast. They’re perfect for busy cooks or sourdough beginners. They’re great for any occasion or when you just want homemade bread.
Baking Timeline for Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Sourdough baking needs a well-planned timeline to get your sourdough dinner rolls ready for dinner. This recipe shows a baking schedule from mixing the levain the night before to enjoying the rolls.
The sourdough baking timeline for these sourdough dinner rolls is as follows:
- 7:00 PM (Night Before): Mix the levain (sourdough starter, flour, and water) and let it ferment overnight at 78-80°F.
- 7:00 AM: Mix the dough, incorporating the fermented levain.
- 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Bulk ferment the dough at 80°F.
- 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Shape the dough into rolls and proof at 80-85°F until doubled in size.
- 6:00 PM: Bake the sourdough dinner rolls at 375°F for approximately 25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 200°F.
This timeline can be adjusted based on your dough temperature and proofing environment. It ensures the rolls are ready for dinner. Remember, the key to success with sourdough baking is patience and attention to detail.
| Step | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mix Levain | 7:00 PM (Night Before) | Mix sourdough starter, flour, and water; ferment overnight |
| Mix Dough | 7:00 AM | Incorporate fermented levain into dough |
| Bulk Ferment | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Ferment dough at 80°F |
| Shape and Proof | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Shape dough into rolls and proof at 80-85°F |
| Bake | 6:00 PM | Bake rolls at 375°F for 25 minutes |
Key Ingredients Explained
This sourdough dinner roll recipe has a few key ingredients. They come together to make the perfect texture and flavor. Let’s explore what makes these rolls special:
Sourdough Starter
A ripe, bubbly sourdough starter is at the heart of these rolls. It gives them a tangy taste and makes them light and fluffy. Use an active, well-fed starter for the best results.
Whole Milk
Whole milk makes these rolls soft and tender. Its fat and proteins add a rich, indulgent feel. This complements the sourdough’s tangy notes.
Butter and Sugar
A bit of butter and sugar enhance the rolls’ flavor. The butter adds a buttery richness, while the sugar balances the sourdough’s tartness. Together, they create a delicious taste that guests will love.
While you can try different substitutions, the original ingredients are key. They give these sourdough rolls their amazing texture and flavor.
Mixing the Sourdough Dinner Roll Dough
Preparing the Levain
The heart of these sourdough dinner rolls is the levain. It’s a pre-ferment mixed the night before. The levain has your sourdough starter, flour, and water. It ferments for 10-12 hours until it’s bubbly and ready.
After the levain is ready, mix the rest of the ingredients. In a stand mixer or by hand, add the levain with warm water, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Then, add all-purpose flour slowly until the dough comes together. Knead for 5-10 minutes until it’s smooth.
When mixing the dough, be gentle to avoid toughening it. This makes the rolls light and fluffy. Now, the dough is ready for bulk fermentation and shaping.
Bulk Fermentation and Shaping
The first step in making sourdough dinner rolls is bulk fermentation. This 4-hour process lets the dough develop amazing flavor and strength. It prepares the dough for the final shaping and proofing stages.
To keep the dough warm, place it in a spot between 70-80°F (21-27°C). This warmth helps the sourdough starter work its magic. It breaks down the starches and proteins in the flour. The dough becomes more supple and elastic, ready for the next step.
- After the bulk fermentation is complete, it’s time to divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Gently shape each piece into a smooth, taut ball. Use the side of your hand to push the dough against the work surface. This develops a uniform exterior skin.
- Arrange the shaped dough balls in a round pan. Leave enough space between them for the final proof and baking.
When shaping, handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it. If the dough feels too sticky, lightly dust your hands or the work surface with flour.
Now that the dough is shaped, it’s time for the final proofing stage. The rolls will rise and develop their fluffy texture here.
Proofing the Sourdough Dinner Rolls
After shaping your sourdough dinner rolls, it’s time to let them rise. This step is key for achieving their soft and fluffy texture. It’s what makes these homemade rolls so special.
Place the shaped rolls in a warm spot for 3-4 hours. This could be your oven with the light on or on top of your fridge. They will grow in size, becoming light and airy.
The proofing time can change based on your dough’s temperature and the room’s. Watch them closely to avoid overproofing. They’re done when they’ve grown a lot and spring back when pressed.
| Proofing Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| First Proof | 60-90 minutes |
| Second Proof | 60-90 minutes |
With patience and care, your sourdough dinner rolls will be light and fluffy. They’re now ready to bake. Keep an eye on them for a delightful homemade treat.
Sourdough Dinner Rolls Recipe
Enjoy the cozy taste and soft texture of homemade sourdough dinner rolls. This recipe makes 12 golden, fluffy rolls great for soups, stews, or family meals. They have a light crumb thanks to 100% sourdough fermentation, offering a rich flavor and chewy bite.
To start, mix 140 grams of water, 35 grams of active sourdough starter, and 140 grams of flour for the levain. Let it ferment for at least 12 hours at room temperature. It should double in size and be bubbly.
Then, in a big bowl or stand mixer bowl, mix the rest: 500 grams of flour, 60 grams of butter, 15 grams of honey, 9 grams of sea salt, and the levain. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough and let it bulk ferment for 1 to 2 hours, until it’s increased in volume by about 50%.
- Gently punch down the dough to release any air pockets, then divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a smooth, round roll and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Cover the rolls and let them proof for an additional 1 to 2 hours, until they’ve doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re golden brown on top.
Let the sourdough dinner rolls cool a bit before serving warm. Or, let them cool completely and enjoy at room temperature. These homemade rolls keep well at room temperature for up to 4 days or can be frozen for longer.
Baking and Serving Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Baking sourdough dinner rolls is easy and rewarding. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 30 minutes, until they’re golden and the inside is 190-195°F. Brush them with melted butter for extra flavor and shine.
Baking Tips
Here are some tips for baking:
- Score the rolls before baking for even growth and a rustic look.
- Use a preheated baking stone or sheet for a crispy crust.
- Mist the oven walls with water at the start to create steam. This helps with rise and crust.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway to ensure even browning.
After baking, let the rolls cool for 10 minutes. This lets the flavors mix and the texture set. Serve the warm rolls with your favorite baking sourdough dinner rolls or serving sourdough rolls dish for a special homemade treat.
Variations and Substitutions
The classic sourdough dinner roll recipe is a favorite. But, you can try different variations and substitutions to match your taste or dietary needs. Let’s explore some options:
Dairy-Free Alternatives
If you can’t have dairy, you can swap the milk for non-dairy options. Try unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. These will keep the rolls soft and moist.
Oil-Based Rolls
For a richer taste, use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil instead of butter. This change will give the rolls a unique feel but they’ll still be tasty.
Cornstarch-Free Variations
- Want to skip cornstarch? Use potato flakes or leave it out. The rolls might be a bit coarser but still tender and tasty.
- Try mixing all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Versatile Shaping
These rolls can also be made into burger or hot dog buns. Just shape the dough bigger and bake a bit longer. This will make them perfect for your favorite sandwiches.
| Variation | Modification |
|---|---|
| Dairy-Free Rolls | Replace milk with unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk |
| Oil-Based Rolls | Swap butter with neutral-flavored oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado) |
| Cornstarch-Free | Substitute cornstarch with potato flakes or omit entirely |
| Whole Wheat Variation | Use a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour |
| Burger Buns or Hot Dog Rolls | Adjust shaping and baking time for larger portions |
These variations and substitutions let you make the recipe your own. You can keep the delicious taste and texture of homemade sourdough bread while meeting your dietary needs.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Keeping your homemade sourdough dinner rolls fresh is important. They should stay soft and taste great. If you have leftovers, there are simple ways to keep them fresh for days.
For a short time, store the rolls at room temperature. Use an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to 24 hours. This keeps them moist and prevents drying out.
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Cool the rolls and put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just warm them in the oven or microwave before enjoying.
Proper storage helps your sourdough dinner rolls stay soft and flavorful. Follow these tips to enjoy your rolls for days or weeks.
Common Questions About Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Starting your sourdough dinner roll baking journey? You might have some questions. Let’s tackle some common concerns to help your rolls turn out great every time.
Adjusting for Sourdough Starter Hydration
The hydration of your sourdough starter affects your dinner rolls’ texture and moisture. If your starter is thick, add more water. If it’s thin, use less. Start with small water adjustments to get the right dough consistency.
Dealing with Sticky or Dry Dough
Sticky dough? Add 1-2 tablespoons of flour until it’s easier to work with. Dry dough? A splash of water should make it smoother and more pliable.
Using the Recipe for Other Rolls
This recipe works for more than just dinner rolls. Try making hamburger buns or slider rolls by adjusting the shape and baking time.
| Sourdough Starter Hydration | Dough Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Thicker Starter | Increase Water by 1/4 cup |
| Thinner Starter | Decrease Water by 1/4 cup |
| Sticky Dough | Add 1-2 tbsp Flour |
| Dry Dough | Add Splash of Water |
Every sourdough starter and baking environment is different. Be ready to tweak the recipe a bit. With some trial and error, you’ll make sourdough dinner rolls everyone will enjoy.
Conclusion
The easy-to-make sourdough dinner rolls are a great addition to your family’s meals. They have a light and fluffy texture with a sourdough flavor. This makes them a favorite in any home.
These rolls are perfect with a stew, for sandwiches, or just on their own. They add a delicious touch to any meal. They go well with many dishes, making them a great choice for your family’s favorites.
Try making these sourdough dinner rolls today. Enjoy the joy of homemade bread and start a new tradition. Your family will love the taste and smell of these freshly baked rolls.