The Irresistible Parker House Rolls Recipe by Pioneer Woman

If you’re searching for the perfect homemade rolls recipe, look no further than “The Irresistible Parker House Rolls Recipe” by Pioneer Woman. This mouthwatering recipe promises to deliver rolls that are soft, fluffy, and simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, these rolls will undoubtedly steal the spotlight on your table. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll be rewarded with heavenly rolls that will delight your taste buds. So, get ready to unleash your baking skills and bring a touch of homemade goodness to your next meal!

Understanding Parker House Rolls and the Pioneer Woman

Discover the history and significance of Parker House rolls and the influence of the Pioneer Woman on this classic recipe.

The Origin of Parker House Rolls

The origin of Parker House rolls can be traced back to the late 19th century in Boston, Massachusetts. These soft and buttery rolls were first created by the Parker House Hotel, which has since become the Omni Parker House.

Legend has it that a frustrated baker named Parker, who worked at the hotel, accidentally left a batch of dinner rolls in the oven for too long. Instead of discarding them, he served them anyway, and to everyone’s surprise, they were a hit. The unique combination of a crispy exterior and a pillowy soft interior made these rolls a favorite among hotel guests.

Over time, the recipe was perfected and became a signature dish of the Parker House Hotel. The rolls were served as part of their famous Parker House Dinner, a multi-course meal that included seafood, roasted meats, and other delectable dishes. The rolls quickly gained popularity and became a staple in American cuisine.

The Pioneer Woman’s Take on Parker House Rolls

The Pioneer Woman, also known as Ree Drummond, is a celebrated food blogger, cookbook author, and television personality. She has become famous for her down-to-earth approach to cooking and her love for comfort food.

In her take on Parker House rolls, the Pioneer Woman stays true to the traditional recipe with a few personal twists. She adds a touch of sweetness to the dough by incorporating a small amount of sugar. This subtle sweetness enhances the flavor and complements the rich buttery taste of the rolls.

The Pioneer Woman also suggests brushing the rolls with melted butter before baking, which gives them a beautiful golden-brown color and adds an extra layer of richness.

Why Parker House Rolls are a Popular Choice

Parker House rolls have stood the test of time and continue to be a popular choice for bread lovers worldwide. There are several reasons why these rolls have become a beloved classic:

1. Soft and buttery texture: Parker House rolls are known for their irresistibly soft and buttery texture. The combination of fluffy dough and a generous amount of butter makes them an absolute delight to eat.

2. Versatility: These rolls can be enjoyed on their own, as part of a meal, or used as a base for sandwiches. Their neutral flavor profile makes them a versatile accompaniment to a wide range of dishes.

3. Nostalgia: Parker House rolls evoke a sense of nostalgia and tradition. They remind us of simpler times and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

4. Easy to make: While they may seem complex, Parker House rolls are surprisingly easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can recreate this classic recipe in your own kitchen.

In conclusion, Parker House rolls have a rich history and continue to be a beloved choice for bread enthusiasts. The Pioneer Woman’s take on this classic recipe adds a personal touch while staying true to its origins. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or used to make a delicious sandwich, Parker House rolls are sure to satisfy any bread lover’s cravings.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, you can’t go wrong with these Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. They’re soft, fluffy, and topped with a gooey cinnamon sugar glaze that’s simply irresistible.

Gathering the Ingredients

When it comes to making the irresistible Parker House rolls recipe by the Pioneer Woman, gathering the right ingredients is crucial. The perfect Parker House rolls require a careful selection of high-quality ingredients, and knowing where to find them is equally important. In this section, we will explore the essential ingredients needed to create these mouthwatering rolls and provide guidance on where to find them.

Flour, Yeast, and Other Dry Ingredients

To begin, let’s talk about the dry ingredients that form the foundation of the Parker House rolls. The main ingredient is flour, and for the best results, it is recommended to use all-purpose flour. This type of flour gives the rolls a light and fluffy texture that is simply irresistible. Look for reputable brands of all-purpose flour in your local grocery stores or specialty food markets.

Note: All-purpose flour is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Parker House rolls.

Next on the list is yeast. The yeast provides the rolls with their signature rise and delicious flavor. Active dry yeast is commonly used in this recipe. Look for packets of active dry yeast in the baking aisle of your supermarket. You can also find it in specialized baking stores or order it online for convenience.

Note: Active dry yeast is an essential ingredient that ensures your rolls turn out soft and fluffy.

In addition to flour and yeast, there are a few other dry ingredients necessary for the Parker House rolls recipe. These may include sugar, salt, and baking powder. These ingredients are vital for adding flavor and enhancing the overall texture of the rolls. You can find these staples in the baking aisle of any well-stocked grocery store.

Note: Sugar, salt, and baking powder are the secret ingredients that contribute to the irresistible taste of Parker House rolls.

Dairy and Fats for the Perfect Texture

Now, let’s move on to the dairy and fats needed to achieve the perfect texture in your Parker House rolls. One essential ingredient is milk. Whole milk is commonly used in this recipe. Its richness adds a creamy and tender texture to the rolls. You can easily find whole milk in the dairy section of your local supermarket.

Note: Whole milk provides a luscious and moist texture to your Parker House rolls.

In addition to milk, butter is another crucial ingredient. It adds flavor and richness to the rolls. Look for high-quality unsalted butter, as it allows you to control the salt content in the recipe. Local dairy sections or specialty stores are excellent places to find premium unsalted butter.

Note: High-quality unsalted butter is the key to achieving a buttery and velvety texture in your Parker House rolls.

Last but not least, many recipes call for eggs. Eggs add structure and moisture to the rolls. Look for fresh eggs in your supermarket’s refrigerated section. Organic or free-range eggs are excellent choices if available.

Note: Fresh eggs contribute to the perfect texture and golden color of your Parker House rolls.

Choosing the Right Tools and Utensils

Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s important to have the right tools and utensils to ensure your Parker House rolls turn out flawlessly. Here are a few essentials:

• A mixing bowl: Choose a large mixing bowl to accommodate the dough as it rises.
• A stand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon: These tools will help you mix and knead the dough effectively.
• A dough scraper: This handy tool will assist in dividing and shaping the dough.
• A rolling pin: You’ll need a rolling pin to flatten the dough and create the desired thickness.
• A baking sheet: Use a high-quality baking sheet to ensure even baking and prevent sticking.
• Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat: These will prevent the rolls from sticking to the baking sheet.
• A pastry brush: Use a pastry brush to apply melted butter or egg wash for a glossy finish.

Note: Having the right tools and utensils will make the process of crafting your Parker House rolls much easier.

By gathering the essential ingredients, including flour, yeast, dairy, fats, and the necessary tools and utensils, you are well on your way to creating the irresistible Parker House rolls by the Pioneer Woman. Now that you know where to find these ingredients, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and embark on a culinary adventure!

If you’re looking for another delicious roll recipe, check out this White House Sourdough Rolls recipe. It’s a classic recipe with a tangy flavor that pairs well with any meal.

Preparing the Dough

When it comes to making the perfect Parker House rolls, the key lies in mastering the art of preparing the dough. With careful attention to detail and a few insider tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving bakery-worthy results. So, let’s dive in and explore the step-by-step process.

Proofing the Yeast for Successful Rising

Before you start mixing up your dough, it’s crucial to ensure that your yeast is properly proofed. Proofing yeast helps activate it and ensures that your rolls will rise beautifully. To do this, you’ll need warm water, sugar, and yeast. Simply combine them in a bowl and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Tip: Make sure the temperature of the water is between 105°F to 110°F, as water that is too hot can kill the yeast, while water that is too cold won’t activate it properly.

Mixing and Kneading Techniques for a Soft and Elastic Dough

Once your yeast is proofed, it’s time to start mixing and kneading the dough. The goal is to create a soft and elastic dough that will result in incredibly light and fluffy rolls. The basic ingredients for the dough include flour, butter, sugar, salt, and milk.

To achieve the ideal texture, begin by mixing the dry ingredients together in a bowl. Then, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, slowly add in the milk while stirring the mixture until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Tip: Don’t over-knead the dough, as this can lead to denser rolls. A light touch and enough kneading to achieve a smooth texture are key to success.

Time and Temperature Considerations during the Rising Process

After kneading the dough, it’s time to let it rise. The rising process is crucial as it allows the dough to develop flavor and texture. To ensure successful rising, you need to consider both time and temperature.

The ideal temperature for dough rising is around 80°F to 85°F. However, if your kitchen is cooler, you can place the dough in a slightly warmed oven or use a proofing box to create a warm environment. It’s important to cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out during the rising process.

As for the time, the dough should roughly double in size after the first rising. This typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Once it has doubled, gently punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and shape it into rolls. Allow the shaped rolls to rise for another 30 minutes to an hour until they have puffed up nicely.

Tip: If you’re short on time, you can use the dough’s second rise to refrigerate it overnight. This allows flexibility in baking your rolls the next day.

In conclusion, mastering the art of making Parker House rolls starts with preparing the dough correctly. By proofing the yeast, using the right mixing and kneading techniques, and considering time and temperature during the rising process, you’ll be on your way to creating irresistibly soft and flavorful rolls that will impress everyone at your table. Happy baking!

Shaping and Baking the Rolls

Discover different methods of shaping Parker House rolls and learn how to achieve the ideal texture and appearance.

Classic Parker House Roll Shape

The classic Parker House roll shape is a traditional and iconic way of shaping these delicious rolls. To achieve this shape, follow these steps:

1. Divide the dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal portions, usually about 2 ounces each.
2. Roll the dough: Take one piece of dough and roll it into a small oval shape, approximately 5 inches long and 2 inches wide.
3. Butter the dough: Using a butter knife, spread softened butter on one side of the oval-shaped dough.
4. Fold the dough: Fold the dough in half lengthwise, bringing the bottom edge up to meet the top edge. Press the edges lightly to seal.
5. Place on a baking sheet: Arrange the folded dough on a greased baking sheet, leaving enough space between each roll for it to expand during baking.
6. Let it rise: Cover the baking sheet with a clean kitchen towel and allow the rolls to rise for about 30 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to the specified temperature in the recipe and bake the rolls for the recommended time, or until they turn golden brown and have a fluffy texture.

Note: The classic Parker House roll shape is characterized by its half-moon appearance and buttery flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Alternative Shaping Techniques for Variety

If you’re looking to add some variety to your Parker House rolls, try these alternative shaping techniques:

• Knot shape: After dividing the dough into equal portions, roll each piece into a rope shape. Tie the dough into a knot, tucking the ends underneath to secure.
• Pinwheel shape: Roll out the dough into a thin rectangle, then spread softened butter and your choice of fillings, such as cheese or herbs. Roll the dough tightly, then slice into rounds and arrange on a baking sheet.
• Cloverleaf shape: Divide the dough into small balls and arrange three balls in each muffin cup of a greased muffin tin. The balls will rise and create a cloverleaf-like shape.

Note: These alternative shaping techniques can add visual interest and excitement to your Parker House rolls, perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with unique presentations.

Baking Tips for Golden and Fluffy Rolls

To ensure that your Parker House rolls turn out perfectly golden and fluffy, consider the following baking tips:

1. Properly preheat the oven: It’s essential to preheat the oven to the specified temperature in the recipe before placing the rolls inside. This allows for even heating and consistent baking.
2. Use the right baking sheet: Choose a light-colored baking sheet to prevent excessive browning on the bottom of the rolls. Dark-colored baking sheets may absorb more heat and lead to uneven baking.
3. Brush with butter: To achieve that irresistible golden crust, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter before baking. This will give them a beautiful shine and enhance their flavor.
4. Rotate the baking sheet: Halfway through the baking time, rotate the baking sheet to ensure even browning. This will help the rolls bake uniformly and avoid any burnt spots.
5. Test for doneness: Use a toothpick or skewer to test if the rolls are fully cooked. Insert it into the center of a roll, and if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, the rolls are ready.

Note: These baking tips will help you achieve perfectly golden and fluffy Parker House rolls every time. Remember to adjust the baking time if needed, as every oven may vary slightly in temperature.

For a different bread recipe, try making these No Yeast Homemade Bread. It’s a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t require any yeast, making it perfect for beginners or when you’re in a hurry.

Serving and Enjoying Parker House Rolls

After baking a batch of delicious Parker House rolls using Pioneer Woman’s recipe, it’s time to think about how to serve and enjoy these delectable treats. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a holiday feast or as a standalone snack, there are various serving suggestions and creative ways to amp up the enjoyment of these rolls.

Accompaniments and Spreads for Flavorful Combinations

To enhance the flavor of your Parker House rolls, consider serving them with an array of accompaniments and spreads. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Whipped Honey Butter – Spread some creamy whipped honey butter on warm Parker House rolls for a sweet and savory combination.
• Garlic Herb Butter – Infused with garlic and herbs, this butter adds a burst of flavor to every bite of the rolls.
• Cranberry Sauce – Pair your rolls with some homemade cranberry sauce to add a tangy and fruity twist.
• Cheese and Jam – For a unique flavor profile, try topping your rolls with a slice of cheese and a dollop of your favorite jam.
• Herbed Cream Cheese – Slather some herbed cream cheese on your rolls for a creamy and zesty combination.

Using Leftover Parker House Rolls

If you find yourself with leftover Parker House rolls, don’t let them go to waste! There are several creative ways to repurpose these rolls:

• Bread Pudding – Use the leftover rolls as a base for a delicious bread pudding. Combine them with milk, eggs, and your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits.
• French Toast – Slice the rolls and dip them in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and cinnamon. Cook them on a buttered skillet until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup and fresh berries.
• Croutons – Cube the leftover rolls, toss them in olive oil, and bake until crispy. These homemade croutons can be used to top soups or salads.

Tips for Storing and Reheating for Later Enjoyment

If you want to enjoy your Parker House rolls at a later time, here are some tips for storing and reheating:

• Storage ️ – Once the rolls have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
• Reheating – To reheat the rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the rolls in foil and warm them in the oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

With these serving suggestions, creative uses for leftovers, and tips for storing and reheating, you can fully enjoy the irresistible Parker House rolls by Pioneer Woman. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a homemade treat, these rolls are versatile and sure to please.

Thank You for Reading!

Thank you for taking the time to explore this wonderful Parker House Rolls recipe inspired by Pioneer Woman. We hope you found the instructions easy to follow and the rolls simply irresistible! If you have any more questions or want to discover more amazing recipes, be sure to visit us again soon. Happy baking and enjoy your delicious homemade rolls! ‍

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