How to make small bread rolls

Freshly baked bread rolls are a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you want to serve them with soup, use them to create little sandwiches, or simply enjoy them on their own, making small bread rolls at home is a rewarding and surprisingly easy task. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a batch of delicious homemade bread rolls. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make small bread rolls.

Ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt

Step 1: Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the lukewarm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Mix the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Begin kneading the dough by pushing it away from you with the heel of your hand and then folding it back towards you. Continue this motion for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the rolls
Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it by pressing it down with your fingertips. Transfer it back to the floured surface and divide it into desired small portions. Roll each portion into a ball by tucking the edges underneath and rolling it between your hands.

Step 6: Second rise
Place the shaped rolls onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper or greased lightly with oil. Leave some space between them to allow for expansion. Cover the rolls again and let them rise for another 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 7: Preheat the oven
While the rolls are on their second rise, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 8: Bake the rolls
Once the rolls have sufficiently risen, remove the covering and place the tray in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. Rotate the tray halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Step 9: Cool and serve
Once baked, transfer the rolls to a wire rack and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve these small bread rolls warm or at room temperature with your favorite spreads or use them to create delicious mini sandwiches.

Conclusion:
Homemade small bread rolls are a true delight, and making them oneself can be a rewarding and gratifying experience. By following these simple steps, you can create a batch of fresh, soft, and fluffy rolls that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible aroma and taste of homemade small bread rolls.