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In the world of home cooking, few things evoke comfort and nostalgia quite like homemade bread. The warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home has a unique ability to draw people in, creating a sense of belonging and warmth. Among the myriad of bread recipes, Parker House rolls stand out for their delightful texture and rich flavor. These soft, buttery rolls are not only a staple in many households but also carry a rich history that dates back to the 1870s in Boston, Massachusetts. Originally created at the Parker House Hotel, these rolls have become synonymous with comfort food, often accompanying holiday meals and family gatherings.

Butter Soft Parker House Rolls

Discover the joy of baking with this Heavenly Butter Soft Parker House Rolls recipe! Perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals, these rolls are known for their fluffy texture and rich flavor. Learn about essential ingredients like flour, yeast, and butter, and follow the step-by-step guide to create these scrumptious rolls at home. Enjoy fresh, homemade bread without preservatives, and experiment with serving suggestions that’ll impress your guests! Reheat for delicious leftovers and explore variations to suit your taste. Bring warmth and comfort to your table with every bite.
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Ingredients
  

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon active dry yeast

1 cup whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon baking soda (optional)

Additional melted butter for brushing, as needed

Instructions
 

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, add the warm milk and granulated sugar, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle the active dry yeast evenly over the top and allow it to sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active.

    Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour and the salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the flour mixture. Add the melted butter and room temperature eggs. Stir everything together until just combined, forming a wet dough.

      Knead the Dough: Gradually incorporate the remaining 1 cup of flour, mixing until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour as needed while kneading.

        First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with cooking spray or oil, place the dough inside, and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has roughly doubled in size.

          Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release excess air. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. For a classic Parker House shape, tuck the edges of each ball toward the center to create a flat bottom.

            Prepare for Second Rise: Arrange the shaped rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, making sure they touch slightly, which encourages soft edges. Cover the dish with a towel and allow them to rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until they are puffed and have nearly doubled in size.

              Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After the rolls have risen, brush their tops generously with melted butter for richness. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of salt on top before placing them in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are a golden brown color.

                Finishing Touch: Once golden brown, remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with more melted butter for added flavor and shine. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes to enhance their soft texture.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Serve the rolls warm by pulling them apart, creating an inviting presentation perfect for any meal or gathering. Enjoy the heavenly, buttery softness that extends from every bite!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 2 hrs 30 min | 12 rolls