Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Savory, soft, and aromatic, the Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls bring a delightful twist to your dining table. Infused with the nutty flavor of brown butter and fresh herbs, these rolls are perfect for any fall or winter gathering, from Thanksgiving feasts to cozy family dinners. Their unique taste and fluffy texture make them an irresistible addition that pairs beautifully with savory dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of brown butter and sage offers a rich, nutty taste that elevates traditional dinner rolls.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Ideal for holiday meals or family gatherings, these rolls impress guests and family alike.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
- Versatile Use: Great as a side for soups, stews, or as part of a festive bread basket.
- Make-Ahead Option: Plan ahead with simple make-ahead instructions for busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Light-colored skillet or saucepan
- Medium heatproof bowl
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing dough easier and ensures consistent texture without much effort.
- Light-colored skillet: Prevents burning by allowing you to see the browning process of the butter clearly.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
– 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk or buttermilk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
– 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast (1 standard packet)
– 3 Tablespoons (64g) honey, divided
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage leaves, plus an extra pinch for topping
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– 3 cups (390g) bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed
– optional: flaky sea salt, for finishing
How to Make Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Melt the sliced butter in a light-colored skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly until it foams. Watch closely as it turns golden brown with a nutty aroma after about 5–7 minutes. Immediately pour it into a medium heatproof bowl and let cool for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In your stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Cover loosely and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Step 3: Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Add the remaining honey, egg, cooled brown butter (reserve some for later), salt, sage, thyme, and 1 cup of bread flour. Mix on low speed with a dough hook until combined. Gradually add more flour until you achieve a soft but manageable dough.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Using your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or kneading by hand on a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes. If sticky, add flour one teaspoon at a time until it’s slightly tacky but not dry.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1.5–2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Prepare Baking Pan
Grease a baking pan suitable for your rolls—either a 9×13-inch pan or two round/square pans—and set aside while waiting for the dough to rise.
How to Serve Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not just a delicious addition to your meal; they can elevate any dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these rolls can be served in various delightful ways.
With Savory Dishes
- Roasted Turkey: Pair these rolls with roasted turkey for a classic Thanksgiving vibe.
- Herb-Crusted Beef: The nutty flavor of the rolls complements the richness of beef perfectly.
- Creamy Mushroom Soup: Serve alongside for a comforting and hearty combination.
As a Snack
- Butter and Jam: A simple spread of butter or your favorite jam makes for an irresistible snack.
- Cheese Platter: Include with a selection of cheeses for an elegant appetizer.
For Breakfast
- Egg and Cheese Sandwich: Use the rolls as a base for a delicious breakfast sandwich.
- French Toast Style: Transform leftover rolls into French toast for a sweet treat.
How to Perfect Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Perfecting your Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success every time you bake them.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Always check that your yeast is fresh for optimal rise and texture.
- Monitor Water Temperature: Ensure milk is warmed to around 110°F (43°C) to activate yeast without killing it.
- Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow adequate time for the dough to double in size; this helps develop flavor and texture.
- Knead Properly: Kneading develops gluten, giving your rolls structure. Aim for soft, pliable dough.
- Experiment with Herbs: While sage shines, feel free to mix in other herbs like rosemary or thyme for varied flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls pair wonderfully with many side dishes. Here’s a list of the best accompaniments that will enhance your meal experience.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes with garlic make an excellent pairing, ideal for sopping up gravy.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory, these carrots add color and flavor contrast to the table.
- Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: The savory bacon enhances the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts, making it a fantastic match.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing balance to the rich rolls.
- Stuffing: A herbed stuffing complements the sage in the rolls beautifully; perfect for holiday meals.
- Green Bean Almondine: This light dish adds crunch and freshness, balancing out richer flavors on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that may affect your results.
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Ignoring the butter browning process: It’s essential to watch the butter closely while browning. If you let it burn, your rolls will have a bitter taste. Stir constantly and remove it from heat once it reaches a light caramel color.
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Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can prevent proper yeast activation. Always warm your milk and ensure your egg is at room temperature for better results.
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Skipping the dough kneading step: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives your rolls their structure. Knead for at least 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
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Not allowing enough rising time: Rushing the rise can lead to dense rolls. Let the dough rise until it doubles in size; this usually takes 1.5–2 hours in a warm place.
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Overcrowding the baking pan: Placing too many rolls too close together can result in uneven baking. Give them space to expand, whether using one large pan or two smaller ones.
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Skipping the finishing touch: For added flavor, brush the rolls with reserved brown butter before serving. This final step enhances their rich, nutty flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping them; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Alternatively, freeze baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months as well.
Reheating Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 15-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming the rolls for about 5 minutes until soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls.
Can I use different herbs in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of sage for unique flavors.
How do I know when my rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of around 190°F (88°C) also indicates they are done.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, check the freshness of your yeast and ensure your ingredients were at proper temperatures. A warmer environment can also help activate yeast more effectively.
Can I make these dinner rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before shaping and baking them fresh the next day.
How do I store leftover dinner rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Their warm, comforting flavors make them perfect for fall or winter dinners, enhancing any meal they accompany. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs or toppings to make them truly your own!
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 rolls 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy warmth of Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, a delightful twist on traditional rolls that elevate any dining experience. These soft, savory buns are infused with the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter and aromatic sage, making them an irresistible addition to your fall or winter gatherings. Perfect for Thanksgiving feasts or intimate family dinners, these rolls offer a fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with savory dishes. With easy-to-follow instructions and common ingredients, even novice bakers can create these comforting rolls that will impress your guests and enhance your meals.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
- 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk or buttermilk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast (1 standard packet)
- 3 Tablespoons (64g) honey, divided
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage leaves, plus an extra pinch for topping
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 3 cups (390g) bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed
- optional: flaky sea salt, for finishing
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a light-colored skillet over medium heat until golden and nutty. Cool for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk warm milk, yeast, and honey; let sit until frothy (5-10 minutes).
- Mix in remaining honey, egg, cooled brown butter (reserve some), salt, herbs, and 1 cup of bread flour. Gradually add more flour until soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth; let it rise in a greased bowl until doubled (1.5–2 hours).
- Shape the dough into rolls and place them in a greased baking pan to rise again before baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 156
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
