Whole Wheat Roll
Soft, fluffy, and wholesome whole wheat rolls with a hint of sweetness. These homemade rolls are perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a simple dinner side, bringing a touch of rustic warmth to any meal.
For 12 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Activate the yeast
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and active dry yeast.
- c.Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes foamy and bubbly on top.
- d.This indicates the yeast is active and ready to use.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the dough
- b.Add the olive oil, salt, and 3 cups of the whole wheat flour to the yeast mixture.
- c.Mix with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
- d.Gradually add the remaining 0.75 cup of flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. You may not need all of it.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Knead and proof the dough
- b.Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- c.Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat the top.
- d.Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Shape and proof the rolls
- b.Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- c.Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 1-2 inches apart.
- d.Cover the rolls with the kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, until they are puffy.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Bake the rolls
- b.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the rolls are doing their second rise.
- c.Uncover the rolls and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- d.Transfer the rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a softer crust, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.
- 2Don't add too much flour. The dough should be slightly tacky to the touch, not dry. This keeps the rolls soft.
- 3To check if the dough has risen enough, gently press two fingers into it. If the indentations remain, it's ready.
- 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 or agave nectar. The recipe is otherwise naturally dairy-free.
quickQuick
Use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. You can skip the initial 10-minute activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
healthyHealthy
Add 2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal or chia seeds along with the flour for extra fiber and omega-3s.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Shape the dough into fun animal shapes or knots before the second rise to make them more appealing to children.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Whole wheat flour is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Provides Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates in whole grains are broken down slowly, providing a steady release of energy without the spikes associated with refined grains.
Source of B Vitamins
Whole wheat contains essential B vitamins like niacin, thiamin, and folate, which are crucial for energy metabolism and overall cell function.
Frequently asked questions
One homemade whole wheat roll from this recipe has approximately 150-160 calories, primarily from the whole wheat flour.