Bread Rolls

There’s something incredibly comforting about the warmth and aroma of freshly baked bread, and these homemade healthier bread rolls are no exception. Made with a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour, they strike the perfect balance between wholesome nutrition and soft, pillowy texture. These rolls are subtly sweetened with honey or maple syrup and enriched with olive oil instead of butter, making them a better-for-you option without compromising on taste or satisfaction. They’re golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and versatile enough to serve at dinner, tuck into lunchboxes, or enjoy with a smear of nut butter at breakfast. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, nourish your family with homemade goodness, or simply enjoy the joy of baking from scratch, these rolls are easy to make and even easier to love. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can bake a batch and save some for busy days when you need a comforting bite in a hurry. Once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen year-round.
Bread Rolls
Recipe details
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 sachet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (not too hot – about 40–43°C / 105–110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg (optional – for egg wash to give a golden crust)
- Optional: sesame seeds, oats, or poppy seeds for topping
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, mix warm water with honey (or maple syrup). Sprinkle the yeast on top, stir gently, and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Make the Dough:
- Add olive oil, salt, and both flours to the yeast mixture. Mix until a rough dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook).
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel or cling film, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the dough and divide into 8–12 equal pieces, depending on desired size. Roll each piece into a ball and place on a lined or greased baking tray, leaving space between each.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the rolls loosely with a towel and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat & Bake:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). If using, beat the egg and brush the tops of the rolls for a golden crust. Sprinkle with optional toppings like sesame or oats.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They freeze well, too!
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