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+ servings

Refrigerator Rolls

These soft, buttery refrigerator rolls are a classic make-ahead bread that’s as practical as it is comforting. The dough rests in the fridge, developing flavor and making it easy to bake fresh rolls whenever you need them. Light, fluffy, and brushed with melted butter, they’re perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you want warm homemade bread.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 12 hours
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Bread, Comfort Food, Family Favorites, Holiday Recipes, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 24 rolls
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 packages active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water for yeast
  • 1 egg large, beaten
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup shortening Crisco or lard
  • 2 cups warm water
  • 6 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 sticks butter or margarine for dipping and brushing

Instructions
 

  • Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water and let sit until foamy.
  • In a large bowl, combine shortening, sugar, and salt. Add beaten egg, yeast mixture, and 2 cups warm water. Mix well.
  • Add flour and mix until a soft dough forms, scraping down sides to incorporate all flour.
  • Transfer dough to a greased bowl, grease the top, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight or up to 1 week.
  • When ready to bake, turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly.
  • Cut into rounds using a biscuit cutter. Dip each piece in melted butter and place in a baking pan.
  • Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
  • Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
  • Brush hot rolls with melted butter immediately after baking and serve warm.

Notes

This dough keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, allowing you to bake fresh rolls over several days. Be careful not to over-flour the dough when shaping, as it can make the rolls dense instead of soft and fluffy.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcal
Keyword homemade bread, make ahead dough, refrigerator rolls, soft dinner rolls, yeast rolls
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