When the first hints of fall fill the air, I find myself dreaming of warm, buttery rolls fresh from the oven. That’s when these classic Parker House Rolls come to the rescue! With their soft, pillowy texture and slightly flaky crust, they are more than just a side dish; they are a true celebration of warmth and nostalgia. Imagine pulling apart a roll, its tender interior ready to soak up the rich flavors of your favorite gravy, or transforming into a heavenly turkey sandwich with Thanksgiving leftovers.
After a week filled with takeout and rushed meals, I craved something homemade and comforting. This traditional recipe, rooted in history from Boston’s Omni Parker House Hotel, has become a staple at my table—a gathering point for friends and family alike. It doesn’t just bring joy at the holidays; it tantalizes the taste buds for any occasion. Join me in making these delightful rolls; your kitchen will be filled with the aroma of fresh baking, and I promise, your dinner plate will thank you!
Why will you love Parker House Rolls?
Soft, Buttery Texture: These rolls are incredibly fluffy, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Quick Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have homemade rolls fresh in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Side: Perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts, everyone will be reaching for seconds!
Versatile Uses: Whether paired with gravy or used for sandwiches, these rolls elevate any meal.
Rich Tradition: Rooted in history, making Parker House Rolls connects you to a culinary legacy.
Why not check out more comforting recipes to complete your feast?
Parker House Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
• Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness to the dough; plant-based alternatives can be used for a dairy-free version.
• Salted Butter – Provides flavor and tenderness; substitute with unsalted butter for a less salty taste.
• Sugar – Sweetens the dough and aids in browning; try using honey or maple syrup for a unique twist.
• Active Dry Yeast – Leavens the rolls for a light texture; instant yeast can substitute with a 25% reduction in amount.
• Eggs – Contributes richness and binds the dough; consider flax eggs for a vegan option.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the rolls; whole wheat or bread flour can enhance nutrition and chewiness.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the dough moist and helps with rising; any neutral oil will work well.
For Topping
• Flaky Salt – Enhances the flavor of the rolls; sea salt or kosher salt are suitable substitutes.
Perfect your Parker House Rolls with these delightful ingredients and bring a taste of tradition right to your dining table!
How to Make Parker House Rolls
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Prepare Milk Mixture: Heat the whole milk and ½ cup of salted butter together in a saucepan until melted. Let the mixture cool to room temperature for the perfect dough consistency.
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Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine active dry yeast with warm water (around 110°F) and a spoonful of sugar. Allow it to sit for about 2 minutes until foamy, indicating your yeast is ready.
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Mix Dough: In a stand mixer, pour in the cooled milk mixture, add the eggs, and then the activated yeast. Gradually mix in all-purpose flour until well blended, forming a soft dough.
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Knead Dough: Using the dough hook attachment, knead the dough on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for achieving that heavenly texture!
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First Rise: Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1½ to 2 hours.
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Shape Rolls: Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into equal pieces, roll into rectangles, and cut into strips. Fold each piece in half and place them in a greased baking dish.
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Second Rise: Brush the folded rolls with melted butter, cover again, and allow them to rise until doubled, approximately 30-40 minutes.
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Bake Rolls: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, until beautifully golden brown. As they come out, brush them again with butter and sprinkle with flaky salt.
Optional: For a delightful twist, mix in herbs or garlic powder into the dough.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Parker House Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps, then shaping the rolls and refrigerating them in the baking dish covered with plastic wrap. This prevents the dough from overproofing and enhances flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the rolls rise for about 30-40 minutes at room temperature before popping them into the oven. For even more convenience, you can freeze unbaked rolls for up to 4 months; thaw them overnight in the fridge and allow for the final rise before baking. Rest assured, your rolls will be just as delicious, ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Perfect Parker House Rolls
- Fresh Yeast Matters: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh to guarantee proper activation; expired yeast won’t foam, ruining your dough.
- Dough Resting: Let the dough rise in the fridge overnight to develop deeper flavors and improve texture, making your Parker House Rolls even more delightful.
- Kneading Technique: Don’t rush the kneading process. Aim for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic for that fluffy consistency.
- Shaping Rolls: When folding the dough, maintain a ¼-inch overhang on the edges to achieve the classic Parker House fold.
- Check Doneness: Keep a close eye on the rolls as they bake; they should be golden brown. A simple tap on the bottom should sound hollow when done.
How to Store and Freeze Parker House Rolls
Room Temperature: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you need a little extra time, place rolls in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they are wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 4 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy your leftover Parker House Rolls, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. They’ll regain that soft, buttery texture you’ll love!
Parker House Rolls Variations
Customize these delightful rolls to make them uniquely yours! Let your creativity shine through by exploring these tasty options.
- Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk for any plant-based milk like almond or oat for a deliciously dairy-free version.
- Honey Sweetened: Substitute sugar with honey for a natural sweetness that beautifully complements the buttery flavor of the rolls.
- Herbed Delight: Mix in dried herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, into the dough for a fragrant, savory twist. They’ll add a wonderful aroma as they bake!
- Garlic Infusion: Add garlic powder or roasted garlic to the dough for a flavorful bite that pairs perfectly with soups or stews.
- Whole Wheat: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and additional fiber in every roll.
- Cheesy Goodness: Fold in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella before shaping the rolls for a gooey, cheesy experience with every bite.
- Sweet Rolls: Add cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg to the dough for a sweet spin that’s fantastic when served with breakfast or brunch.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like some heat, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes into your dough for a delightful surprise!
What to Serve with Parker House Rolls?
These delightful rolls are perfect for completing your meal, bringing warmth and flavor to the table.
- Savory Gravy: Rich and flavorful, gravy is a classic pairing that soaks beautifully into the rolls, enhancing every bite.
- Hearty Soup: A bowl of creamy tomato or chunky vegetable soup creates a comforting contrast to the soft texture of the rolls.
- Roasted Vegetables: Mixed roasted root vegetables offer a crispy, earthy balance to the light, buttery rolls, creating a wholesome dish.
- Fresh Salad: A bright, citrusy salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rolls’ richness.
- Turkey with Cranberry Sauce: Perfect for using those holiday leftovers, turkey sandwiched in these rolls with cranberry sauce is pure bliss.
For a special touch, consider serving a fruit-infused iced tea alongside your meal to sip and savor each taste.
Parker House Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best milk for my Parker House Rolls?
Absolutely! Whole milk is ideal as it adds moisture and richness. However, if you need a dairy-free option, any plant-based milk will work beautifully, such as almond or oat milk, providing a slightly different flavor profile.
How should I store leftover Parker House Rolls?
Store your cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious! If you want to extend their life a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week after wrapping them to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Parker House Rolls?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful rolls! Once they’ve cooled completely, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and they can be stored for up to 4 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, the yeast might not be active. Ensure that you’re using fresh yeast; expired yeast won’t foam when activated. If it has a peculiar scent or doesn’t bubble after 2 minutes in warm water with sugar, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast.
Are Parker House Rolls suitable for vegans?
Yes, they can be made vegan! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) and replace the whole milk with any plant-based milk. Using vegan butter will also help maintain that rich, buttery flavor.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Very! Using whole wheat flour can add a lovely nuttiness and a bit more texture to your Parker House Rolls. Keep in mind that while they’re denser, you may want to adjust the liquid slightly to achieve the right dough consistency. Enjoy those rolls!
Heavenly Parker House Rolls for an Unforgettable Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Milk Mixture: Heat the whole milk and ½ cup of salted butter together in a saucepan until melted. Let the mixture cool to room temperature for the perfect dough consistency.
- Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine active dry yeast with warm water (around 110°F) and a spoonful of sugar. Allow it to sit for about 2 minutes until foamy, indicating your yeast is ready.
- Mix Dough: In a stand mixer, pour in the cooled milk mixture, add the eggs, and then the activated yeast. Gradually mix in all-purpose flour until well blended, forming a soft dough.
- Knead Dough: Using the dough hook attachment, knead the dough on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1½ to 2 hours.
- Shape Rolls: Once risen, gently punch down the dough. Divide it into equal pieces, roll into rectangles, and cut into strips. Fold each piece in half and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Second Rise: Brush the folded rolls with melted butter, cover again, and allow them to rise until doubled, approximately 30-40 minutes.
- Bake Rolls: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, until beautifully golden brown. Brush again with butter and sprinkle with flaky salt.