Sweet potato rolls have a way of capturing your heart and taste buds. These delightful, fluffy rolls are infused with the natural sweetness and earthiness of sweet potatoes, making them an irresistible addition to any meal.
Why We Love This Sweet Potato Rolls Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why sweet potato rolls can easily become a favorite at your table. First, they showcase the luscious flavor of sweet potatoes, which not only adds sweetness but also offers a unique twist to the traditional dinner roll. The vibrant orange color of the sweet potatoes also adds visual appeal, making your bread basket more inviting.
Moreover, these rolls are incredibly soft and pillowy, ensuring that every bite feels like a treat. The addition of butter enhances their richness, and the balanced sweetness will have your diners reaching for more. Beyond their flavor and texture, sweet potato rolls are also surprisingly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bake a batch of these delightful rolls that everyone will love.
Ingredients about Sweet Potato Rolls
To create the magical flavor and texture of sweet potato rolls, you’ll need a handful of key ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
- 1 packet (0.25 ounces) active dry yeast (not rapid rise)
- 1/4 cup warm water (between 95°F and 115°F)
- 1/2 cup plus 1/2 teaspoon sugar, divided
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons melted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked mashed sweet potato
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 1/2 to 4 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
How to Make Sweet Potato Rolls Directions
Making sweet potato rolls might seem intimidating, but following these easy steps will get you there in no time. Start by proofing your yeast. In a bowl, combine the yeast with the warm water and 1/2 teaspoon sugar, then let it stand for 15 minutes until it becomes bubbly. This step is essential to ensure that your yeast is active and ready to help your rolls rise.
In a stand mixer, mix together the warm milk, 1/2 cup melted butter, the remaining sugar, the mashed sweet potato, and salt. Start by mixing on low for about a minute to combine everything smoothly. Next, add two cups of flour into the mixture and mix again. Once blended, add in the two lightly beaten eggs and your proofed yeast. Increase the mixer speed to medium until you achieve a smooth batter.
Now, it’s time to create the dough. Gradually add the remaining flour until the dough becomes thin and sticky. Switch to a dough hook and continue mixing on low speed until the dough is smooth and elastic. When the dough is ready, transfer it to a floured board. Knead in enough flour to form a soft ball that isn’t excessively sticky but still has a delicate texture.
Once you’ve prepared your dough, place it in a greased bowl and cover it. Allow it to rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, which usually takes about an hour. This part of the recipe fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma, hinting at the delicious rolls to come.
After the dough has risen, coat a baking sheet with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Punch down the dough to release the air and divide it into four equal pieces. Each piece should then be divided into six smaller portions, giving you a total of 24 rolls. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on the baking sheet.
Now, let your shaped rolls rise again. Cover them with a towel and allow them to puff up for about an hour. This second rise is critical for achieving that light and airy texture that makes sweet potato rolls so enjoyable.
While your rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F. Once they’re ready, pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown on top. As soon as they are out of the oven, brush the remaining melted butter over the top of the rolls for that rich finish, and serve them warm.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Rolls
Sweet potato rolls can be a perfect addition to any meal. Think about serving them with a warm bowl of soup, a fresh salad, or as part of a festive dinner with turkey or roasted vegetables. They can also work wonders as a sandwich base. Imagine a delightful turkey or chicken salad tucked inside a sweet potato roll; the flavor combination is sure to impress.
For an elevated treat, consider serving them with honey butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. These additions not only enhance the sweet potato flavor but make your rolls feel even more special. You can also enjoy them on their own, fresh out of the oven, as a delightful snack any time of the day.
If you’re feeling adventurous, think about creating sliders with your sweet potato rolls. Fill them with roasted vegetables, avocado, or even your favorite spread for a satisfying bite-sized treat. The versatility of sweet potato rolls means they can shine in various forms, catering to both savory and sweet cravings.
Expert Tips: Sweet Potato Rolls
Creating the perfect sweet potato rolls can be a simple endeavor when you follow a few expert tips. First, make sure your sweet potatoes are cooked and mashed smoothly; any lumps can affect the texture of your rolls. Plan to bake with warm ingredients—this helps in activating the yeast and yields better results.
When mixing your dough, add flour gradually just until it reaches the right consistency. You want it to be slightly sticky; over-flouring can lead to dense rolls. A dough hook is your best friend here—the dough should be smooth and elastic before you set it to rise.
As for rising, finding a warm spot is key. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a slightly heated oven (turned off, of course) or any warm area. The ideal environment will allow your dough to rise efficiently.
Finally, don’t forget the importance of brushing melted butter over your hot rolls after baking. This not only helps keep them soft but adds a lovely sheen and flavor that completes the roll experience.
How to Store Sweet Potato Rolls
Storing sweet potato rolls correctly ensures you can enjoy them even after the first bake. To store your rolls, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days. For longer storage, consider placing them in the refrigerator. Just be aware that refrigeration may change the texture slightly.
If you want to keep your sweet potato rolls for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or heat them in the oven for refreshing warmth.
Variation of Sweet Potato Rolls
The beauty of sweet potato rolls lies in their adaptability. You can easily modify the traditional recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For example, consider swapping out regular all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if you are looking for a healthier option. This change not only enhances nutritional value but also gives them a distinct texture.
For added flavor, think about incorporating spices into the dough, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice. This twist will elevate the rolls and lend a cozy warmth that pairs perfectly with meals. Chefs often suggest adding chopped herbs or cheese for a savory variant, which can make them a fantastic side for dinner.
You could also experiment with the mashed sweet potato itself. Try blending in some pumpkin puree for a richer flavor. Alternatively, using butternut squash or other winter squash can produce equally delightful results while shaking up the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are sweet potato rolls?
Sweet potato rolls are soft bread rolls made with mashed sweet potatoes, yeast, flour, and other simple ingredients. They have a light, fluffy texture and a subtle sweetness that makes them enjoyable on their own or as part of a meal.
How can I enhance the flavor of sweet potato rolls?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, incorporating herbs, or using different types of flour for a distinct taste. Brushing the rolls with garlic butter or honey butter before serving will elevate the experience further.
How do I store sweet potato rolls?
After they cool, store sweet potato rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, wrap and freeze them for up to three months, then thaw or reheat in the oven before serving.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast, but note that you might need to adjust the water content slightly and skip the proofing step. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients before combining with wet ingredients.
Are sweet potato rolls healthy?
Yes, sweet potato rolls, when made with wholesome ingredients and minimal added sugars, are a healthy source of carbohydrates and can contribute nutritional benefits from sweet potatoes, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Sweet Potato Rolls
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 packet active dry yeast (0.25 ounces, not rapid rise)
- ¼ cup warm water (between 95°F and 115°F)
- ½ cup plus ½ teaspoon sugar divided
- 1 cup warm milk
- ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons melted butter divided
- ½ cup cooked mashed sweet potato
- 1 tsp. salt
- 4½ to 4¾ cups all-purpose flour divided
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and ½ teaspoon sugar. Let stand for 15 minutes until bubbly.
- In a stand mixer, mix warm milk, ½ cup melted butter, remaining sugar, mashed sweet potato, and salt.
- Add 2 cups of flour to the mixture and blend. Then, add beaten eggs and proofed yeast, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add remaining flour until dough is thin and sticky. Switch to a dough hook and mix until smooth and elastic.
- Knead in enough flour to form a soft ball. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Coat a baking sheet with nonstick spray. Punch down the dough and divide into 24 pieces, rolling each into a ball.
- Place rolls on the baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let rise for about 1 hour until puffy.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake rolls for 16-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Brush rolls with remaining melted butter after baking and serve warm.
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