Fluffy Homemade Potato Rolls

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Fluffy Homemade Potato Rolls – Soft, Buttery, and Simply Irresistible!

If you’re searching for the ultimate homemade dinner rolls, look no further—these Fluffy Potato Rolls are everything you could want: pillowy soft, richly buttery, and made with a secret ingredient that makes all the difference—mashed potatoes! Whether you’re using leftovers or freshly mashed potatoes, this recipe turns a humble pantry staple into golden, tender rolls that are perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup mashed potatoes (plain, unsalted—leftover or freshly made and cooled)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for greasing and brushing)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading and shaping)

For Finishing:

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing after baking)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, stir the warm milk and active dry yeast together. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy—this means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

2. Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, melted butter, sugar, and beaten egg. Stir until smooth. Add the frothy yeast mixture and mix again.

Gradually add salt and flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all the flour—stop when the dough is soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.

3. Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5–7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and springs back when pressed.

Form into a ball.

4. First Rise

Place the dough into a greased bowl, turning it once to coat all sides. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough to release excess air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide into 12 equal pieces (or more for smaller rolls). Shape each into a ball and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy and nearly doubled in size.

7. Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15–18 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden on top.

8. Brush and Serve

Remove from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter while they’re still warm. This gives them that glossy, irresistible finish. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips and Variations

  • Mashed Potatoes Tip: Use plain mashed potatoes without butter, milk, or seasonings for best texture.
  • Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough through the first rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Shape and bake the next day.
  • Savory Twist: Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor.
  • Sweet Rolls Variation: Increase sugar to 1/3 cup and mix in 1 tsp vanilla for a touch of sweetness.
  • Freezer Friendly: These rolls freeze beautifully! Wrap tightly and store up to 1 month. Reheat in a warm oven for fresh-baked taste.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Rolls

  • Extra Soft and Moist: Mashed potatoes give them unmatched tenderness.
  • Perfectly Buttery: Brushed with butter for flavor in every bite.
  • Versatile: Enjoy them with dinner, as sandwich buns, or simply warm with a pat of butter.

Let these rolls be your new go-to for holidays, cozy family dinners, or everyday baking. Once you try them, they’ll become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!

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