These crusty sourdough dinner rolls are golden and crunchy on the outside, while soft and fluffy inside. They bring a lovely tang from the sourdough that makes every bite special!
There’s just something about pulling a fresh roll from the oven; it makes me want to dance! 🍞💃 I love serving them warm with butter. Trust me, they disappear in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter: The heart of these rolls! Make sure yours is active and bubbly. If you don’t have a starter, you can use a store-bought one, but the flavor might differ. And if you’re short on time, consider using commercial yeast instead, though the taste won’t be quite the same.
Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly for these rolls, but if you want to add more nutrition, you could use half whole wheat flour. Just remember that it may change the texture a bit— they might be a little denser.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. If you need a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter. They will still taste amazing!
Instant Yeast: I love using instant yeast for its convenience. If you only have active dry yeast, just mix it with warm water and sugar first and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before adding it to the starter mixture.
How Do I Get the Perfect Shape for My Rolls?
Shaping dough can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! The goal is to create tight balls that hold their shape. Here’s how:
- After punching down your dough, stretch each piece slightly and fold the edges toward the center to make a small pouch.
- Flip it over so the seam is on the bottom, then use your hands to roll it gently on the counter to create a smooth surface.
- Keep the rolls slightly snug against each other on the baking sheet; this helps them rise up instead of out.
Perfectly shaped rolls not only look great but also bake evenly! Enjoy the process; it’s all about having fun in the kitchen!
Crusty Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- Additional flour for shaping
- Optional: melted butter for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time and requires around 2 to 2.5 hours for rising and baking. So, in total, you’ll need about 2 to 3 hours. Don’t worry, most of that time is just waiting for the dough to rise!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, warm water, and granulated sugar. Stir everything together until the sugar has dissolved completely. Then, add the instant yeast and mix well. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes slightly bubbly—it’s waking up!
2. Adding Ingredients:
Now it’s time to make the dough come together. Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and softened butter to the bowl. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until the dough starts forming into a cohesive ball. It’s okay if it looks a bit rough at this stage; we’ll knead it soon!
3. Kneading the Dough:
Dust a clean surface with flour, then turn out your dough and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, you can also use that with the dough hook attachment on medium speed for about 6-8 minutes.
4. First Rise:
Lightly grease a bowl and place the kneaded dough inside. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size—this should take about 1 to 1.5 hours. You can safely grab a cup of tea while you wait!
5. Shaping the Rolls:
Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces, then shape each piece into a tight ball. To shape, pull the edges toward the center and pinch them together, then flip it over and roll it to create a smooth top.
6. Second Rise:
Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or on a lightly floured kitchen towel, spaced apart so they can puff up. Cover them and let them rest for another 45-60 minutes, until they are puffy and almost doubled again.
7. Baking Time:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Just before it’s time to pop them in, lightly dust the tops of the rolls with a bit of flour for that beautiful rustic look. Bake them for 15-18 minutes until they’re golden brown and crusty!
8. Finishing Touches:
When the rolls are done, take them out of the oven and, if you’d like, brush the tops with melted butter while they’re still warm—this makes them even more delicious. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy your crusty sourdough dinner rolls warm, ideally with a little butter or your favorite spread! These rolls are perfect for any meal or even just a snack on their own!
Can I Use Regular Yeast Instead of Instant Yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast! Just mix it with the warm water and sugar, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy before adding it to the sourdough starter mixture.
How to Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to stay fresh longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be that your sourdough starter isn’t active enough. Make sure your starter is bubbly and has been fed recently. If you’re unsure, try adding a little extra instant yeast to the mix for added boost!
Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can shape the rolls and let them rise in the fridge overnight. Just be sure to cover them well. The next day, take them out to come to room temperature before baking, and they should rise nicely while the oven preheats!