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Potato Rolls

Potato Rolls

These homemade Potato Rolls are soft, fluffy, and buttery rolls that combine the gentle sweetness of mashed potatoes with a tender, chewy crumb. Perfect for any meal, these rolls are easy to make with simple ingredients and can be customized with various flavor variations. They also freeze well, making them a great make-ahead bread option.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups peeled and mashed potatoes (cooled)
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for brushing)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Boil peeled potatoes until fork-tender, then drain and mash smoothly without lumps. Set aside to cool to prevent overcooking when mixed into the dough.
  2. Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk to around 110°F (43°C), dissolve the sugar in it, then sprinkle the active dry yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy to confirm the yeast is active.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend the cooled mashed potatoes with softened butter and the egg. Add the activated yeast mixture along with salt. Gradually stir in the flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This develops gluten and traps air for fluffy rolls.
  5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and leave in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  6. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide into 12 to 16 equal portions, shape each into smooth balls, and arrange on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
  7. Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed and almost doubled.
  8. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush rolls with melted butter or egg wash for a golden crust. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
  9. Cool and Enjoy: Remove from oven and brush again with butter to retain moisture and shine. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and optimal yeast activation.
  • Keep dough slightly sticky—do not add too much flour—to ensure softer rolls.
  • Allow full rises during both proofing stages for soft, airy texture.
  • Use warm, not hot, milk to prevent killing the yeast.
  • Brush with butter right after baking to keep crust soft and flavorful.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato rolls, homemade rolls, soft rolls, fluffy bread, dinner rolls, baking, mashed potato bread, buttery rolls