Old Fashioned Potato Rolls Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Soft and Fluffy Rolls at Home

If you’re looking to elevate your baking skills and impress your family and friends, the old fashioned potato rolls recipe is a must-try. These delightful r……

If you’re looking to elevate your baking skills and impress your family and friends, the old fashioned potato rolls recipe is a must-try. These delightful rolls are not only soft and fluffy but also packed with flavor, thanks to the addition of mashed potatoes. This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, and once you taste these rolls, you’ll understand why they have stood the test of time.

### The History of Potato Rolls

Potato rolls have a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century, when home bakers began to incorporate mashed potatoes into their bread recipes. The starch in the potatoes acts as a natural tenderizer, resulting in a roll that is incredibly soft and moist. This old fashioned potato rolls recipe is a nod to those early bakers who sought to create a comforting, hearty bread that could accompany any meal.

### Ingredients You Will Need

To make these delicious rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

- **2 cups of mashed potatoes** (about 2 large potatoes)

- **1 cup of milk**

- **1/2 cup of unsalted butter** (melted)

- **1/4 cup of granulated sugar**

- **1 packet of active dry yeast** (2 1/4 teaspoons)

- **1 teaspoon of salt**

- **4 to 5 cups of all-purpose flour**

- **2 large eggs**

These ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making this old fashioned potato rolls recipe accessible for everyone.

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Mashed Potatoes**: Start by peeling and boiling the potatoes until they are fork-tender. Drain and mash them until smooth. Allow them to cool to room temperature.

2. **Activate the Yeast**: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (about 110°F) with the active dry yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

3. **Mix the Wet Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, melted butter, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the eggs and the frothy yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.

4. **Add the Flour**: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer until a soft dough forms. You may need to adjust the amount of flour depending on the humidity and consistency of your dough.

5. **Knead the Dough**: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

6. **First Rise**: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

7. **Shape the Rolls**: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions (about 12-16). Shape each portion into a ball and place them in a greased baking dish.

8. **Second Rise**: Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until they puff up.

9. **Bake the Rolls**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.

10. **Cool and Serve**: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. For an added touch, brush the tops with melted butter for a shiny finish.

### Tips for Perfect Rolls

- **Use Starchy Potatoes**: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe due to their high starch content.

- **Don’t Rush the Rising**: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor.

- **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to add herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

### Conclusion

The old fashioned potato rolls recipe is not just a simple bread recipe; it’s a tradition that brings people together. The soft, fluffy texture and the rich flavor of these rolls make them a perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner. By following this guide, you can create your own batch of these delightful rolls and share them with your loved ones. Happy baking!