Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls

If you’re looking for a show-stopping bread to accompany dinner or an indulgent snack, look no further than these Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls. Soft, fluffy, and infused with aromatic herbs and rich butter, this recipe unlocks the secret to perfect rolls that balance flavor and texture beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a holiday feast, or a casual weeknight meal, these rolls will steal the spotlight and have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Silky soft texture: Achieved by careful kneading and the perfect balance of ingredients, making each bite irresistibly tender.
• Herb-infused flavor: Fresh herbs add a bright, fragrant note that elevates these rolls beyond just plain bread.
• Rich buttery finish: Generous butter coating ensures every roll is moist and packed with indulgent flavor.
• Versatile for any occasion: Perfect alongside soups, salads, roasts, or just on their own.
• Simple but impressive: Requires everyday ingredients yet delivers big on taste and appearance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in these Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls plays a vital role, contributing to the soft crumb, golden crust, and uplifting aroma. Here’s what you’ll gather to bring this delightful bread to life.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and is perfect for soft, tender rolls.
• Warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
• Active dry yeast: The key leavening agent that gives the rolls their lovely rise.
• Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Salt: Balances flavors and enhances the dough’s taste.
• Unsalted butter: Used in the dough and melted over the warm rolls for deep buttery flavor.
• Fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme): Add a garden-fresh fragrance and vibrant taste.
• Egg: Enriches the dough and helps achieve a tender crumb.

Variations for Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls

Feel free to tailor this recipe to your liking or dietary needs. These rolls are wonderfully adaptable, and small tweaks can lead to delicious new twists.

• Garlic herb rolls: Add roasted garlic or garlic powder for a deeper savory punch.
• Cheese-stuffed: Insert small cubes of your favorite cheese for melty, gooey centers.
• Whole wheat blend: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• Dairy-free version: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter substitutes to keep it creamy without dairy.
• Herb variations: Experiment with basil, oregano, or chives for different fresh herbal notes.

How to Make Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the yeast mixture

Warm the milk until it’s comfortably warm to the touch, then stir in sugar and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, signaling the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the egg, melted butter, freshly chopped herbs, and the yeast mixture. Stir until the ingredients come together into a shaggy dough.

Step 3: Knead the dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten which creates the soft, airy texture unique to Parker House rolls.

Step 4: First rise

Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 5: Shape the rolls

Punch down the dough gently and divide it into equal portions. Shape each piece into an oval and fold it in half gently, pressing the sides slightly so they stick together.

Step 6: Second rise

Arrange the shaped rolls on a greased baking sheet or pan, leaving some space between them. Cover and let rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Bake and butter

Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes until the rolls turn golden brown on top. Immediately brush the hot rolls with melted herb butter for that signature Parker House shine and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls

• Perfect yeast proofing: Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
• Knead thoroughly: Proper kneading is crucial for soft, airy rolls with a light crumb.
• Fresh herbs matter: Use fresh herbs for vibrant taste; dried herbs won’t deliver the same aroma.
• Don’t skip the second rise: It ensures the rolls expand properly and stay fluffy.
• Brush with butter right out of the oven: This locks in moisture and adds irresistible flavor.

How to Serve Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the rolls after the buttery glaze for extra visual appeal and flavor boost.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with creamy soups like butternut squash or tomato bisque, herb-roasted chicken, or a warm holiday meal featuring turkey or ham.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the rolls in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin for a cozy feel or slice them open with a dollop of herb butter and a slice of sharp cheddar for a quick, delicious snack or appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain softness and freshness.

Freezing

Wrap cooled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat rolls in a warm oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds to restore moisture.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh herbs provide a brighter, fresher flavor that truly enhances the rolls.

What type of butter is best for this recipe?

Unsalted butter is preferred for mixing into the dough and melting over the rolls, as it allows you to control the salt level precisely.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk, vegan butter substitutes, and an egg replacer to make vegan-friendly buttery herb Parker House rolls.

How long can I keep the dough in the fridge?

The dough can be refrigerated after its first rise for up to 24 hours; just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What makes these rolls different from regular Parker House rolls?

Adding fresh herbs and a generous buttery topping gives Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls a distinct, aromatic twist on the classic, making them extra flavorful and memorable.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls, you’ll understand why they’ve become a treasured recipe in so many kitchens. Their soft texture, mouthwatering buttery finish, and herbaceous aroma make every bite a pleasure, whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion. So go ahead, bake a batch and watch your friends and family fall in love!

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