Name: Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls
Prep time: 3 h 25 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 3 h 52 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Water (1 cup, warmed); Whole Milk (1/3 cup, warmed); Platinum Yeast (1 tablespoon); Brown Sugar (3 tablespoons, divided); Molasses (3 tablespoons); Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons, softened); Old-Fashioned Whole Rolled Oats (1 cup); Bread Flour (3 ½ cups); Salt (1 teaspoon); Egg Wash (1 egg white beaten with 1 teaspoon of water)

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The aroma of baking bread can instantly transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and love. Imagine pulling soft, golden-brown oatmeal molasses dinner rolls from the oven, their surface glistening with a light sheen of butter. The moment you tear one apart, steam wafts up, revealing the soft, fluffy inside just waiting to be slathered with homemade jam or a pat of melting butter.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls

I remember the first time I baked these delightful rolls; it was a chilly autumn evening, and I was craving something hearty for dinner. As the rolls rose, the smell of sweet molasses filled the house, bringing a nostalgic comfort reminiscent of my grandmother’s kitchen during the holidays. These Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls aren’t just bread; they carry memories and comfort in every bite. Perfect for any meal from Thanksgiving dinner to a casual family weeknight get-together, they are sure to become a staple in your home. So, let’s get started on creating this comforting dish that promises to fill bellies with warmth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 3 hours and 25 minutes from prep to table, you can enjoy homemade rolls without the fuss!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of molasses and oatmeal brings a delightful sweetness and heartiness that pairs well with any dish.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These golden rolls, sprinkled with oats, are as lovely to look at as they are to eat!
Flexible Serving: Perfect for holiday dinners, snack time, or as a delicious breakfast treat.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily make these rolls dairy-free by using a non-dairy milk and substituting the butter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Water (1 cup, warmed to about 110°F): This provides the moisture necessary for activating the yeast and helps create a tender dough.
Whole Milk (1/3 cup, warmed to about 110°F): Adds richness and flavor; if you’re lactose intolerant, feel free to substitute with almond or soy milk.
Platinum Yeast (1 tablespoon): This instant yeast guarantees a rise without prior proofing. Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best results.
Brown Sugar (3 tablespoons, divided): It enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness; you can use white sugar in a pinch, but the molasses works best for depth.
Molasses (3 tablespoons): Provides that rich, distinct flavor and color; try using robust or dark molasses for a more pronounced taste.
Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): Softened butter helps enrich the dough; remember to let it come to room temperature for easy mixing.
Old-Fashioned Whole Rolled Oats (1 cup): For texture and a wholesome bite—avoid quick oats, as they won’t yield the same result.
Bread Flour (3 ½ cups): Offers the necessary protein for structure; all-purpose flour can also work but may yield a slightly different texture.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor; don’t skip this, or the rolls may taste flat.
Egg Wash (1 egg white beaten with 1 teaspoon of water): Gives the rolls a beautiful golden finish and helps the oats stick.

How to Make Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls

Whisk and Activate: Start by whisking together the warm water, milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar in the bowl of your stand mixer. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until you see a frothy layer forming on top—that’s the yeast coming to life! If you don’t have a stand mixer, a large mixing bowl and a sturdy spoon will do the trick. Just know that it’ll take a bit more muscle!

Add Ingredients: Mix in the remaining 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, molasses, butter, oats, salt, and the first cup of bread flour. Use a dough hook or paddle attachment to mix on low for a minute. Scrape down the bowl and then add the remaining 2 ½ cups of flour. Continue mixing on medium speed until it pulls away from the bowl’s sides—about 2 minutes. If it looks too wet, gradually add flour a tablespoon at a time until it becomes a soft, slightly sticky dough that you can handle.

Knead the Dough: If you’re using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 5-8 minutes until smooth. Alternatively, you can turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead by hand. If it sticks during kneading, sprinkle a little flour as needed—just don’t overdo it, or you’ll end up with dry rolls. When you poke the dough, it should bounce back slowly, indicating it’s ready to rise.

First Rise: Grease a large bowl lightly with oil or nonstick spray, then place your dough inside, turning it to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area for about 1.5 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. I like to place it on the counter; it usually takes about 2 hours. For a quicker rise, find a warm spot in your kitchen.

Prepare Baking Pan: Once the dough has risen, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round pans. You could also opt for a lined baking sheet or cast-iron skillet, depending on your desired roll shape.

Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough to release any trapped air and divide it into 15 equal pieces—about 68-70g each. I recommend using a kitchen scale for accuracy. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them in the prepared baking pan, keeping a bit of space between them for expansion.

Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls again and let them rise until puffy, which should take about 30 to 60 minutes. Watching them grow is like witnessing a little miracle!

Preheat and Egg Wash: Adjust your oven rack to the lower position and preheat to 350°F (177°C). Gently brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash and sprinkle with additional oats for that rustic look. Bake for about 26-27 minutes or until they are golden brown. If the tops get too brown, loosely cover them with foil. An instant-read thermometer should read 190°F (88°C) when they’re fully baked.

Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool in the pan for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, but don’t forget to cover any leftovers tightly. These rolls can stay at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your leftover rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days; they’ll stay moist but are best enjoyed fresh. If you want them to last longer, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To refresh them, let them thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Keep in mind that freezing may alter the texture a little, but a quick warm-up usually brings back their delightful qualities.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Ensure your flour is spooned and leveled to avoid adding too much, which can lead to dry rolls.
Use room temperature butter and warm milk for easier mixing and activating the yeast.
If you’re short on time, consider letting the dough rise in a warm oven (turned off) with just the light on; it speeds things up!
Be mindful that if your dough is too sticky while kneading, resist the urge to dump in all the flour at once—bake with patience; it’ll get there!
Experiment with adding herbs or spices for a twist; rosemary or garlic would be delightful added to the dough for a savory version.
If you plan to make them ahead, you can shape them and then cover and refrigerate overnight before the final rise and bake.

These Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls bring a comforting warmth to any meal and are easier to prepare than you might think. The wholesome oats and rich molasses offer depth and sweetness, making them a perfect sidekick for stews, soups, or even just a buttered slice as a snack. They’re not just a recipe—they’re a memory in the making. So gather your ingredients and don your apron. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy that comes from baking these delightful rolls!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make gluten-free oatmeal molasses dinner rolls, substitute the bread flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure. Keep in mind the texture might vary, but they should still turn out delightful!

What can I serve with these rolls?

These rolls are incredibly versatile! They pair beautifully with soups, stews, and salads. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside roasted meats or enjoy them slathered with butter and your favorite jam.

How can I enhance the flavor of these rolls?

Try incorporating add-ins like fresh herbs, spices, or even cheese into the dough to elevate these rolls further. For a sweet twist, fold in some dried fruit or nuts, providing added texture and flavor.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough isn’t rising, first check if your yeast is fresh; old yeast may lose its potency. Also, ensure that the water/milk temperature is around 110°F (43°C) as too hot can kill the yeast. Sometimes, moving the dough to a warmer spot can help kickstart the rising process!