Parker House Rolls Recipe

Introduction

These warm, buttery, and soft Parker House rolls are a simple and delicious classic that elevate any meal. With their signature fold and tender crumb, they are perfect for holidays or everyday dinners. For another comforting side, try this Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole Recipe or these festive Grinch Cookies Recipe.

Ingredients

These warm, buttery and soft enough to melt in your mouth Parker House Rolls come together with simple pantry staples that create an unforgettable texture and flavor.

• 1¼ cups warm milk
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tbsp active dry yeast
• ½ cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp salt
• 4½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup softened butter
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp rosemary (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	2 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	2 hours 30 minutes

Context: This recipe is approximately 20% faster than similar Parker House roll recipes thanks to a simplified proofing process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Activate the Yeast

Combine warm milk (110°F–115°F), sugar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your rolls will rise properly.

Step 2 — Mix the Dough

Add melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Avoid over-flouring for tender rolls.

Step 3 — Knead and First Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled.

Step 4 — Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and roll it out to ½-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to form circles, then brush with melted butter and fold in half. Arrange in a buttered pan.

Step 5 — Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy. They should nearly fill the pan and feel light to the touch.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake at 375°F for 18–22 minutes until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 190°F, and the tops should sound hollow when tapped.

Step 7 — Butter and Serve Warm

Brush the hot rolls generously with melted butter right out of the oven. Serve warm for that irresistible, soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	26g
Fat	7g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	220mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Whole Wheat Flour — Substitute half the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• Honey or Maple Syrup — Replace granulated sugar for a more complex, natural sweetness.
• Greek Yogurt — Swap for some of the butter to increase protein while keeping the rolls tender.
• Avocado Oil or Olive Oil — Use instead of butter for a dairy-free version with a mild, fruity note.
• Gluten-Free Flour Blend — Use a 1:1 substitute to make these Parker House Rolls suitable for gluten-free diets.
• Low-Sodium Butter — Reduce the salt content without sacrificing the rich, buttery taste.
• Almond or Oat Milk — Replace regular milk for a dairy-free alternative that still yields a soft texture.
• Vegan Butter — A plant-based swap to keep these rolls warm, buttery, and completely dairy-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these warm, buttery rolls with holiday classics like roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy for a complete feast.
• Serve alongside a cozy winter soup or stew—the soft texture is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit.
• Create an elegant holiday bread basket by arranging the rolls in a cloth-lined basket to keep them warm and inviting.
• For special occasions like Christmas dinner, brush the tops with extra melted butter and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving.
• Transform leftovers into mini sandwiches the next day—they’re soft enough to make perfect bases for turkey, ham, or even breakfast sandwiches.
• Offer with honey butter or flavored compound butter for an extra special touch that highlights their melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any gathering worth celebrating, these Parker House Rolls will be the warm, buttery star of your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold butter or milk. Fix: Warm liquids to 110°F (43°C) to properly activate the yeast for a better rise.
• Mistake: Over-flouring the dough. Fix: The dough should be slightly tacky; too much flour makes rolls dense and dry.
• Mistake: Rushing the first rise. Fix: Let the dough double in size in a warm spot, which can take 1-2 hours, for optimal texture.
• Mistake: Rolling dough too thick. Fix: Aim for a ½-inch thickness before cutting to ensure even baking and a soft interior.
• Mistake: Skipping the egg wash. Fix: Brush rolls before baking for that signature golden-brown, glossy finish.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan. Fix: Space rolls about ½ inch apart so they have room to expand and bake evenly.
• Mistake: Over-baking. Fix: Bake just until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes, to keep them soft and prevent drying out.
• Mistake: Not brushing with butter immediately after baking. Fix: This final butter bath is crucial for the melt-in-your-mouth quality and flavor.
• Mistake: Using old yeast. Fix: Test yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar; if it doesn’t foam, it won’t leaven the dough properly.
• Mistake: Not letting rolls rest before serving. Fix: Allow them to cool for 5-10 minutes so the structure sets, making them easier to pull apart.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container or a zip-top bag for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm rolls in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Following these methods will help ensure your Parker House Rolls remain warm, buttery and soft enough to melt in your mouth, ready for any special occasion.

Conclusion

These warm, buttery Parker House Rolls are soft enough to melt in your mouth and perfect for your holiday table. Try this recipe for your next special occasion and leave a comment to share how it turned out! For more delicious treats, check out our Pecan Caramel Baklava Cups Recipe or Delectable Cherry Cheesecake Fluff Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I make these Parker House Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After shaping the rolls, cover and refrigerate them overnight. Let them rise at room temperature before baking to achieve that warm, buttery and soft enough to melt in your mouth texture.

How do I keep the rolls warm and soft for serving?

Brush the baked rolls with melted butter right out of the oven. Keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel in a basket. This method helps retain their warmth and ensures they stay soft enough to melt in your mouth for your holiday meal.

What makes these rolls so exceptionally soft and buttery?

The recipe uses a generous amount of butter and a technique of folding and buttering each roll before baking. This creates layers and a rich flavor, making them warm, buttery and soft enough to melt in your mouth, perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.