Whole Wheat Rolls
Soft, fluffy, and wholesome dinner rolls made with 100% whole wheat flour. They have a hint of sweetness from honey and a rich, nutty flavor, perfect for serving alongside any meal.
For 6 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Activate the yeast
- b.In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water, warm milk, honey, and active dry yeast.
- c.Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make and knead the dough
- b.Add the melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of the whole wheat flour to the yeast mixture.
- c.Mix with a dough hook on low speed (or by hand with a wooden spoon) until combined.
- d.Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. You may not need all of it.
- e.Knead on medium-low speed for 6-8 minutes (or by hand on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes) until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- 3
Step 3
- a.First rise
- b.Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat.
- c.Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- d.Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 60-90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Shape the rolls and second rise
- b.Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air.
- c.Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a smooth ball.
- d.Arrange the rolls in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- e.Cover the pan and let the rolls rise again for 30-40 minutes until they are puffy.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Bake the rolls
- b.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 10 minutes of the second rise.
- c.In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to make an egg wash.
- d.Gently brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash.
- e.Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. Internal temperature should be 190°F (88°C).
- f.Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a softer crust, brush the tops of the hot rolls with a little melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.
- 2Don't overheat your liquids, as temperatures above 120°F (49°C) can kill the yeast.
- 3Whole wheat dough can be stickier than white flour dough. Resist adding too much extra flour, as this can make the rolls dense.
- 4To check if the dough is properly kneaded, press it with your finger. It should spring back slowly.
- 5These rolls freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace milk with warm water or unsweetened plant-based milk, use maple syrup instead of honey, and olive oil instead of butter. Skip the egg wash or brush with plant milk.
healthyHealthy
Reduce the honey to 1 tablespoon and replace the butter with olive oil for a healthier fat profile.
quickQuick
Use 1.5 teaspoons of instant yeast instead of active dry. You can skip the activation step and reduce the first rise to 45-60 minutes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Dietary Fiber
Whole wheat flour is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Complex Carbohydrates for Energy
These rolls provide complex carbohydrates that are broken down slowly by the body, offering a steady release of energy rather than a quick spike.
Rich in B Vitamins
Whole grains are a good source of B vitamins, including niacin, thiamin, and folate, which are essential for metabolism and overall energy production.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, whole wheat rolls are a healthy choice compared to white rolls. They are made with 100% whole wheat flour, which is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, aiding in digestion and providing sustained energy.