Fluffy Homemade Parker House Rolls

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Fluffy Homemade Parker House Rolls are a timeless dinner-table favorite known for their soft, buttery layers and irresistible golden tops. This easy, beginner-friendly recipe produces warm, tender rolls that pair beautifully with holiday meals, weeknight dinners, or any cozy gathering. With simple pantry ingredients and step-by-step instructions, these classic rolls bake up perfectly every time.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• Nonstick spray or butter for greasing

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, stir together the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.

2. Form the Dough

Add the flour and salt to a large bowl. Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead

Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each into a rectangle, fold in half, and arrange seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.

6. Second Rise

Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

7. Bake

Brush the tops with melted butter. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush with more butter while warm.

Pro Tips

Let both rises fully complete for the fluffiest texture.

Slightly sticky dough is ideal—avoid adding too much flour.

Warm milk should be lightly heated, not hot.

For extra flavor, brush rolls with butter as soon as they come out of the oven.

Why This Recipe Works

• Uses simple pantry ingredients.
• Soft, fluffy crumb with perfectly golden tops.
• Easy enough for beginners, impressive enough for holidays.
• Delicious with savory meals, spreads, or seasonal dishes.

Substitutions & Variations

• Milk: Use 2% milk or an unsweetened dairy-free alternative.
• Butter: Plant-based butter works for a dairy-free version.
• Sweetness: Add an extra tablespoon of sugar for sweeter rolls.
• Flavor Variations:
  • Brush with garlic butter
  • Add shredded cheese inside before folding
  • Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make Ahead

• Prepare the rolls through shaping, then refrigerate overnight.
• Let rise at room temperature before baking.

Storage

• Store cooled rolls in an airtight bag or container for up to 2 days.
• Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
• Microwave for 10–12 seconds for quick reheating.

Serving Ideas

• Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam.
• Pair with soups, stews, or holiday dinners.
• Use as a base for mini sandwiches.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 0mg
  Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these rolls without a mixer?

Yes! This dough is easy to knead by hand.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—use two pans and allow extra time for rising.

Are these rolls sweet?

They have a light sweetness, similar to traditional dinner rolls.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes—freeze shaped, unbaked rolls and bake later.

Why are they folded?

That fold creates the classic Parker House shape and layers.

Fluffy Homemade Parker House Rolls are a timeless addition to any meal, offering soft layers, a buttery finish, and incredible homemade flavor. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering or simply treating yourself to warm, fresh bread, these rolls always deliver comfort and deliciousness.

Fluffy Parker House Rolls

Soft, buttery Parker House Rolls that rise beautifully every time. Perfect for holiday meals, family dinners, or comforting homemade sides.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Bread

Cuisine American

Servings 12 rolls

Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• Nonstick spray or butter for greasing

Instructions

 

• Activate the Yeast

  In a small bowl, stir together the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.
• Form the Dough

  Add the flour and salt to a large bowl. Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
• Knead

  Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
• First Rise

  Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
• Shape the Rolls

  Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each into a rectangle, fold in half, and arrange seam-side down on a greased baking sheet.
• Second Rise

  Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake

  Brush the tops with melted butter. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush with more butter while warm.

Notes

• Rising times may vary depending on room temperature.
• Whole milk creates the richest texture, but alternatives work.
• Kneading is key to achieving a soft, elastic dough.
• Brushing with melted butter enhances flavor and color.

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