Introduction: Poppy Seed Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and subtly flavorful, making them an ideal addition to any meal. These rolls, with their delicate buttery taste and the crunch of poppy seeds on top, elevate a simple dinner or special occasion. Whether served alongside soups, salads, or a holiday feast, they bring a touch of gourmet sophistication to the table.
Ingredients:
1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1/4 cup poppy seeds (for topping)
1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions:
Activate the yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with melted butter, salt, and eggs. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 6-8 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough to release air. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal portions and shape each portion into a smooth ball. Place the balls of dough on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second rise: Cover the shaped rolls with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until they puff up.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with poppy seeds. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the rolls cool slightly before serving.
Description:
These Poppy Seed Dinner Rolls are irresistibly soft, with a slightly sweet and buttery flavor. The addition of poppy seeds on top provides a subtle crunch and an earthy note, making each bite a gourmet experience. Ideal for pairing with hearty dishes or served as a side at festive meals, they’re a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
Tips:
Ensure the milk isn’t too hot: Yeast can be killed by high temperatures, so make sure the milk is warm but not scalding (around 110°F or 43°C).
Rest the dough properly: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure it rises well.
For extra buttery rolls: Brush the rolls with more melted butter once they are out of the oven to give them a richer flavor.
Make-ahead option: After shaping the rolls, you can cover them and refrigerate them overnight. Let them come to room temperature and complete the second rise before baking.
Variations:
Herbed rolls: Add fresh or dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder) to the dough for a savory twist.
Cheese-stuffed rolls: Place small cubes of cheese inside the dough before shaping for a cheesy surprise in the middle.
Honey butter topping: Instead of poppy seeds, top the rolls with honey butter for a sweeter alternative.
Corrections:
Ensure proper measurements for accurate results. Overflouring or underflouring can affect the dough’s texture.
Make sure the yeast is fresh and properly activated. If it doesn’t foam after the first step, discard the mixture and start with fresh yeast.
Enjoy:
These poppy seed dinner rolls are the perfect accompaniment to any meal, adding a soft, flavorful touch that’s bound to impress guests. Enjoy the light, fluffy texture and the pop of flavor from the buttery, poppy seed-topped rolls.
