Fluffy Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls
These Fluffy Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional bread, offering the hearty, nutty flavor of whole wheat with a lighter texture that makes them perfect for any meal. Using King Arthur's 100% whole wheat flour, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into soft and airy rolls that will impress your family and friends. Ideal for dinner gatherings or cozy family meals, these rolls can also be shaped into loaves for added versatility. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven, slathered with butter, or frozen for later, these rolls promise to be a favorite addition to your table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
active dry yeast
2 (1/4 ounce) packages (None)
salt
2 teaspoons (None)
brown sugar or honey
1/4 cup (None)
canola oil or extra light virgin olive oil
1/2 cup (None)
hot water
2 cups (Heated to 120°F)
powdered milk
1/3 cup (None)
100% whole wheat flour
5 cups (None)
Instructions
1
Grease a large mixing bowl and set it aside. In another large mixing bowl, combine the yeast, salt, brown sugar or honey, oil, and hot water. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
2
Add 2 cups of whole wheat flour and powdered milk to the mixture. Blend for another 2 minutes until smooth. Gradually stir in the remaining 3 cups of whole wheat flour using a wooden spoon until fully incorporated.
3
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured counter or tabletop. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding a sprinkle of flour only if the dough becomes too sticky.
4
Place the kneaded dough into the greased bowl, flipping it so the greased side is facing up. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel to prevent drying. Allow the dough to rise in a warm spot, like a sunny window or atop a warm appliance, until it has doubled in size. This may take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the temperature.
5
Once risen, punch the dough down gently and turn it onto a clean surface. Divide the dough into 14 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball by tucking the edges under, pinching towards the center.
6
Arrange the shaped rolls on a greased cookie sheet or one lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Cover with a towel and let them rise in a warm place for an additional 30 minutes.
7
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Bake the rolls one sheet at a time for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. If desired, lightly wipe the tops with a wet paper towel post-baking to keep the crust soft.
8
Remove from the oven and allow the rolls to cool on a wire rack for at least 5 minutes before serving. For leftovers, cool completely before storing in an airtight container or freezer bags.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Fluffy Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls?
These are a light and airy version of traditional whole wheat bread, offering a nutty flavor with a soft texture perfect for any meal.
What type of flour should I use for these rolls?
This recipe recommends using 5 cups of 100% whole wheat flour, specifically King Arthur's brand for the best results.
How much yeast is required for this recipe?
You will need 2 packages of active dry yeast, which is approximately 1/2 ounce total.
Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use either 1/4 cup of brown sugar or 1/4 cup of honey as the sweetener.
What is the ideal temperature for the water?
The hot water used to activate the yeast should be heated to approximately 120°F.
What kind of oil works best in these rolls?
You can use either 1/2 cup of canola oil or extra light virgin olive oil.
Why is powdered milk included in the ingredients?
Powdered milk helps create a smoother dough and contributes to the soft, fluffy texture of the finished rolls.
How long do I need to knead the dough?
The dough should be kneaded on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky while kneading?
Add only a small sprinkle of flour if the dough is too sticky to handle, but avoid adding too much to keep the rolls light.
How long does the first rise take?
Depending on the temperature of your kitchen, the first rise usually takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours.
Where is the best place to let the dough rise?
Place the dough in a warm, draft-free spot, such as near a sunny window or on top of a warm appliance.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready for the next step once it has doubled in size.
How many rolls does this recipe make?
The dough should be divided into 14 equal pieces to create 14 dinner rolls.
How do I shape the rolls?
Tuck the edges of each dough piece under and pinch them toward the center to form a smooth ball.
Is a second rise necessary?
Yes, after shaping the rolls, let them rise on a cookie sheet for an additional 30 minutes.
What temperature should I bake the rolls at?
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and bake the rolls one sheet at a time.
How long do the rolls need to bake?
The rolls typically bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
How can I keep the crust of the rolls soft?
If desired, you can lightly wipe the tops of the rolls with a wet paper towel immediately after taking them out of the oven.
Can I make loaves instead of rolls with this dough?
Yes, the dough is versatile and can be shaped into bread loaves instead of individual rolls.
How long should the rolls cool before eating?
Allow the rolls to cool on a wire rack for at least 5 minutes before serving.
What is the best way to store leftover rolls?
Store completely cooled rolls in an airtight container or a freezer bag.
Can these whole wheat rolls be frozen?
Yes, these rolls freeze well. Ensure they are completely cool before placing them in freezer bags.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need a large mixing bowl, a wooden spoon, a cookie sheet, and optionally parchment paper.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
Yes, you should either grease the cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and is suitable for those new to baking yeast breads.
What is the texture of these rolls?
Despite being 100% whole wheat, these rolls have a light, airy, and fluffy texture.
Can I use a stand mixer?
Yes, you can use a stand mixer on medium speed for the initial mixing stages as described in the instructions.
Are these rolls healthy?
They are a healthier alternative to white rolls because they use 100% whole wheat flour, which contains more fiber.
What can I serve these rolls with?
These rolls are perfect for dinner gatherings, served with butter, or as a side to soups and stews.
Does the recipe use salt?
Yes, the recipe requires 2 teaspoons of salt to balance the flavor and regulate the yeast.