Lion House Dinner Rolls are a beloved classic that brings warmth and delight to any dining table. These soft, fluffy rolls are not only delicious but can also be tailored to fit a healthier lifestyle while maintaining their irresistible taste. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, a cozy dinner, or simply want to enjoy fresh, warm bread at home, these rolls do not disappoint. Even better, they can be a great option for meal prep!
Eating well doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor. With a few adjustments, you can create a healthy version of Lion House Dinner Rolls that will satisfy your cravings while contributing to your health goals. These rolls can be enjoyed as a lighter option paired with a variety of dishes, making them perfect for a balanced meal.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
Lion House Dinner Rolls are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious bread option at mealtime. Not only are they soft and flavorful, but this recipe also allows you to prepare rolls ahead of time. The ability to make these rolls in advance and store or freeze them means you can easily whip them out for dinners without having to start from scratch every time.
These rolls can be adapted to suit various dietary needs as well. If you’re focused on weight loss, you can control your portion sizes or incorporate whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you’re looking for a high-protein meal, consider enjoying these rolls with a protein-rich dish like grilled chicken or lentil stew.
HOW TO MAKE Lion House Dinner Rolls
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large mixer bowl
- Dough hook attachment (for mixer)
- Plastic wrap or cotton towel
- Baking pan
- Pizza cutter
- Oven
- Non-stick spray
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups very warm water
- 2/3 cup instant nonfat dry milk
- 2 tablespoons dry instant yeast
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/3 cup shortening, butter, or margarine (softened)
- 1 egg, lightly whisked
- 5 to 5-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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In your large mixer bowl, combine the warm water and instant nonfat dry milk and stir until the milk dissolves.
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Add the dry instant yeast to the mixture and let it proof for a minute or two. This activates the yeast for better rising.
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Next, add the sugar, salt, shortening, whisked egg, and 2 cups of the all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Whisk everything together well until smooth.
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Place the bowl on your mixer with the dough hook attachment and add 2 more cups of flour. Mix on low speed for 2-3 minutes until well combined.
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Gradually add another cup of flour and mix again. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not overly so.
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If needed, incorporate the remaining 1/2 cup of flour until the dough reaches the desired consistency—soft and pliable, making for a lighter roll.
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Scrape the dough off the sides of the bowl, and spray non-stick spray around the sides of the bowl and on top of the dough to prevent it from drying out.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a cotton towel and allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which takes about one hour. If you preheat your oven to about 100°F and then turn it off, it creates a perfect warm environment for rising.
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After the dough has risen, sprinkle flour on a pastry mat or work surface and scrape the dough out onto it.
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Roll the dough into a large rectangle. For 24 rolls (3 rows of 8), make your rectangle approximately 20×12 inches.
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Brush melted butter over the entire surface of the dough rectangle, enhancing the flavor and moisture.
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Next, cut the rolls into 2-1/2 inches by 4 inches pieces using a pizza cutter. Do this carefully, using your fingers as guides as shown in many cooking demonstration videos.
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Flip the rolls so the butter side is facing in and place them on a greased baking pan. Space the rolls equally apart—aim for 6 rolls on the long side and 4 rolls on the short side.
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If making these rolls the day before, cover them with plastic wrap and place the tray in the refrigerator for up to 18 hours. To bake later, remove from the fridge and let rise for an hour.
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When ready to bake, cover the rolls loosely with a clean towel and let them rise in a warm place until they double in size again (approximately 30 minutes).
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Preheat the oven to 375°F. Once at temperature, remove the cover from the rolls.
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Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until they are browned to your satisfaction.
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Remove them from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter for an irresistible glossy finish.
These Lion House Dinner Rolls yield about 2 dozen rolls, providing plenty for family gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead.
HOW TO SERVE Lion House Dinner Rolls
These rolls are perfect on their own or paired with a variety of dishes. Serve them warm alongside soups, salads, or a hearty main dish. For a balanced meal that fits your dietary needs, try topping them with almond butter for a heart-healthy fat or enjoy them with a healthy soup like lentil or vegetable.
When it comes to portion control, consider cutting the rolls in half if you’re trying to watch your calorie intake. This not only helps you enjoy the taste without overindulging, but it also makes it easy to share!
STORAGE & FREEZING : Lion House Dinner Rolls
To store any leftover rolls, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for about a month in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Pair Lion House Dinner Rolls with a fresh salad topped with lean protein for a balanced meal. Consider a quinoa salad or grilled chicken salad that enhances your overall nutrient intake, ensuring you’re enjoying a heart-healthy meal.
VARIATIONS
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Healthier Version: You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier version. It adds more fiber and nutrients, making it a great choice for those focused on a nutritious diet.
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High-Protein Version: To boost the protein content, consider adding some Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to the dough. This can provide a much higher protein meal option.
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Air Fryer Version: If you’re limited on time or want to save energy, try making these rolls in an air fryer. Shape them just as described and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook at 320°F for about 8-10 minutes or until browned to perfection.
FAQs
1. Can I make Lion House Dinner Rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Adjustments may be needed based on the flour type, so make sure to follow the package instructions for the best results.
2. How can I make Lion House Dinner Rolls lower in calories?
Consider reducing the sugar in the recipe and using a lighter fat option such as applesauce to replace some of the shortening. This can help cut calories and still provide a tasty bread.
3. How do I store leftover Lion House Dinner Rolls?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them wrapped in plastic wrap for up to a month.
4. Are these rolls suitable for a diabetic diet?
While white bread can cause spikes in blood sugar, making adjustments such as using whole wheat flour and reducing sugar can make them more diabetic-friendly. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding dietary needs.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Lion House Dinner Rolls
These Lion House Dinner Rolls are a great option for meal prep! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in your fridge. This means you can enjoy fresh-baked rolls without wasting any time on busy weeknights. Simply allow them to rise and bake them when you’re ready to enjoy. Baking in batches and freezing extras can ensure you always have delicious bread ready when you need it!
In conclusion, Lion House Dinner Rolls offer a delightful and flexible bread option. Whether you’re seeking a healthy version for a balanced meal or simply want something comforting, these rolls fit the bill beautifully. Happy baking!
Lion House Dinner Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- Combine warm water and instant nonfat dry milk in a large mixer bowl until milk dissolves.
- Add yeast and let it proof for 1-2 minutes.
- Mix in sugar, salt, shortening, egg, and 2 cups of flour until smooth.
- Using a dough hook, mix on low speed adding 2 more cups of flour for 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add another cup of flour until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.
- Incorporate more flour if necessary until achieving a soft, pliable dough.
- Spray non-stick spray around the bowl and cover with plastic wrap, letting it rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Flour a work surface and scrape the dough onto it.
- Roll out into a rectangle approximately 20x12 inches.
- Brush the surface with melted butter.
- Cut the dough into 2.5x4 inch pieces and arrange them on a greased baking pan.
- Cover and refrigerate if not baking immediately, or let them rise again for 30 minutes before baking.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until browned.
- Immediately brush with melted butter after baking.