Why You’ll Love this Buttermilk Potato Rolls Recipe
If you’ve ever craved soft, fluffy rolls that melt in your mouth, you’re going to love this Buttermilk Potato Rolls recipe.
These rolls aren’t just any bread; they’re a delightful mix of tenderness and flavor that elevates any meal. The addition of potato makes them incredibly moist, while the buttermilk adds a subtle tang.
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, so you won’t need to spend all day in the kitchen.
Whether for dinner or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to impress everyone at your table!
Ingredients of Buttermilk Potato Rolls
When it comes to baking, the right ingredients can make all the difference, especially with something as delightful as Buttermilk Potato Rolls. This recipe calls for a blend of simple staples that work together to create those soft, fluffy rolls you dream about.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this delicious treat that will have everyone at your dinner table asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup potato water (reserved from cooking russet potatoes, about 75°F)
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 3/4 cup flour (for the starter)
- 1 cup potato water (reserved from cooking russet potatoes)
- 1 cup mashed russet potato
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast (for the dough)
- 5 – 6 1/2 cups flour (for the dough)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for greasing bowl and topping rolls)
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit.
First off, the mashed russet potato is the star of the show here. It not only adds flavor but also contributes to that dreamy moisture we all love in rolls.
And don’t skimp on the potato water! That starchy liquid is important for activating the yeast and helps with the overall texture of the dough.
As for the buttermilk, it brings a subtle tang that perfectly complements the sweetness of the honey. If you can, try to use fresh ingredients; they make a noticeable difference.
And remember, patience is key when it comes to letting your dough rise—trust me, it’s worth it for those light and airy rolls.
How to Make Buttermilk Potato Rolls
To make those irresistible Buttermilk Potato Rolls, you’ll want to start by channeling your inner chef. First, peel and cube a large russet potato, then toss those cubes into a pot with 2 cups of water and let them cook until they’re soft and tender. Once they’re ready, drain the potatoes but don’t toss that liquid—oh no, that’s liquid gold! You’ll need 1/2 cup of that potato water at about 75°F, which will be the magic elixir to wake up your yeast.
Now, in a small bowl, mix that warm potato water with 1 teaspoon of dry yeast. Give it a minute to mingle, then stir it until the yeast dissolves. Whisk in 3/4 cup of flour, and don’t be shy; you want to stir vigorously for about 100 strokes. Yep, it sounds like a workout, but your arms will thank you later. Cover this bubbly starter with a clean towel or some plastic wrap and let it sit in a warm spot for 2 to 3 hours until it’s all puffy and excited.
When it’s time to move on, grab a large bowl (we’re talking 6-quarts or more here) and transfer your starter into it. Now, you’ll add 1 cup of your reserved potato water, 1 cup of mashed russet potato, and 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk, which should be at room temperature—no cold buttermilk allowed. Add another teaspoon of dry yeast, and then stir in 1 cup of flour until it’s well combined.
Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of salt, 2 tablespoons of honey (because, who doesn’t love a touch of sweetness?), and just enough of the remaining flour to create a thick dough that’s hard to stir.
Ah, the fun part! Turn that sticky dough out onto a floured surface and get to kneading. Dip your hands in flour to prevent the dough from sticking, and knead for about 10 to 12 minutes. Your dough should be strong, slightly sticky, and spring back when poked.
Once you’ve worked up a bit of a sweat, shape the dough into a ball, place it back in the bowl that has been lovingly coated with melted butter, and brush the top with more melted butter. Cover it up and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. Trust me, this is where the magic happens.
After the dough has risen, give it a gentle deflate and place it back on that floured work surface. Cut it into three equal pieces, knead briefly, and shape them into 24 dinner rolls or 36 if you’re feeling generous. Let them rise again, covered with a damp towel, for about 15 to 30 minutes until they puff up nicely.
Preheat your oven to 375°F, and while that’s heating, you can place a pan of water underneath the rack where your rolls will bake. This little trick helps create a steamy environment—perfect for soft, fluffy rolls. Bake for about 25 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown.
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool a bit before serving, and if you want to take them over the top, brush the tops with a bit more melted butter while they’re still warm. Enjoy those rolls; they’re sure to be a hit!
Buttermilk Potato Rolls Substitutions & Variations
There’s a world of possibilities when it comes to Buttermilk Potato Rolls substitutions and variations. If you don’t have buttermilk, try using milk mixed with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
For a twist, add herbs like rosemary or garlic to the dough for extra flavor. You can swap out russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness.
If you’re gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the liquid accordingly. For a richer taste, incorporate some shredded cheese.
Feel free to experiment and make these rolls your own—just have fun with it!
What to Serve with Buttermilk Potato Rolls
While Buttermilk Potato Rolls are delightful on their own, pairing them with the right dishes can elevate your meal experience.
I love serving these rolls alongside hearty dishes like beef stew or creamy chicken casserole. They’re perfect for soaking up flavorful sauces!
You might also enjoy them with a fresh garden salad or a comforting bowl of creamy tomato soup.
For a brunch idea, serve them with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.
And don’t forget about spreads—softened butter, honey, or even a tangy herb-infused cream cheese can complement the rolls beautifully.
Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
Additional Tips & Notes
If you’re looking to enhance your Buttermilk Potato Rolls experience, I’ve got a few tips that can make a big difference.
First, use freshly mashed potatoes for a creamier texture. Don’t skip the resting time; letting the dough rise longer results in fluffier rolls.
I also recommend brushing the rolls with melted butter right after baking for added flavor and softness.
If you prefer a hint of sweetness, consider adding a touch more honey.
Finally, for an extra kick, try mixing in herbs or spices to the dough.
These small tweaks can elevate your rolls to a whole new level!