Whole-Grain Rolls
Soft, fluffy, and hearty whole-grain rolls with a protein boost from vital wheat gluten. They have a hint of sweetness from honey and a lovely buttery finish, perfect for any dinner.
For 12 servings
Activate the yeast and mix the dry ingredients.
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, vital wheat gluten, and salt.
- Add the olive oil and the dry flour mixture to the yeast mixture.
TIPMake sure your water is warm, not hot. Hot water can kill the yeast.Knead the dough until smooth.
Stir the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 5-6 minutes.
Let the dough rise.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the rolls.
- Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, about 2 inches apart.
Let the rolls have a second rise.
Cover the baking sheet loosely with a cloth and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes until they look puffy.
Preheat the oven and prepare the rolls.
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Just before baking, gently brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter.
Bake the rolls until golden brown.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
TIPFor an even softer crust, you can brush the rolls with a little more melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.Cool and serve.
Let the rolls cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The temperature of the water is crucial for activating yeast. Use a thermometer if you have one to ensure it's around 110°F (43°C).
- 2Don't add too much extra flour while kneading. A slightly sticky dough will result in softer rolls.
- 3For a savory twist, add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dry ingredients.
- 4These rolls freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace the honey with maple syrup and use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for brushing the tops.
savory herbSavory herb
Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the flour mixture for a savory flavor.
quickQuick
Use a stand mixer with a dough hook to cut down on kneading time. The first rise can also be done in an Instant Pot on the 'Yogurt' setting for 30 minutes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Whole wheat flour is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Boosted with Protein
The addition of vital wheat gluten increases the protein content, which is essential for muscle repair, and helps you feel fuller for longer.
Provides Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates from whole grains provide a steady release of energy, unlike the quick spike from refined flours.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, they are a healthy choice. They are made with whole wheat flour, which provides fiber, and contain added vital wheat gluten for a protein boost, making them more satisfying than typical white rolls.