Sweet Potato Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Sweet potato rolls combine the heartiness of sweet potatoes with the fluffiness of bread rolls. These soft, slightly sweet, and savory rolls are perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or a special treat any time of year. The natural sweetness of the sweet potato enhances the flavor profile, making these rolls a standout option for any meal. If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual bread rolls, Sweet Potato Rolls will undoubtedly impress your guests and elevate your bread game.

In this article, we will explore the basic recipe for sweet potato rolls, advanced techniques for perfecting your baking skills, and tips on storage and dietary adaptations. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find everything you need to make these rolls a success. Let’s dive into the world of Sweet Potato Rolls and discover how easy and enjoyable they can be to make.

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Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Sweet Potato Rolls Recipe: Fluffy & Flavorful Bread Rolls for Every Occasion

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
• Yield: 12 rolls 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These soft and fluffy sweet potato rolls are a wonderful combination of slight sweetness and pillowy texture, perfect for any meal. Made with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and simple ingredients like flour, these rolls are easy to prepare and yield delicious results. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners, holidays, or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup mashed sweet potato (about 1 medium-sized sweet potato)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (divided)

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Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potato:

• Peel and cube the sweet potato. Boil or roast until tender, then mash it thoroughly until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before using.

Make the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato with 2 cups of flour. Gradually add in the remaining flour until the dough begins to come together. The dough should be soft but not too sticky.

Knead the Dough:

• Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour as necessary, but try not to overdo it to ensure the rolls remain soft.

First Rise:

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Shape the Rolls:

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small portions. Shape each portion into a roll and place them in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet.

Second Rise:

• Let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffed and slightly touching each other.

Bake:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through.

Serve:

• Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Optionally, brush with melted butter for added flavor.

Notes

• You can use any type of sweet potato, but make sure it’s mashed smoothly for the best texture in the rolls.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
• If the dough feels too sticky to handle, add a little extra flour, but be cautious not to add too much, as this could make the rolls dense.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (excluding time for the sweet potatoes to cook)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Side dish, Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Sweet Potato Rolls

Instructions

1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by boiling the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until fork-tender, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, drain the water and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top of the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
3. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and mashed sweet potatoes. Add in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir to combine, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Place them on a greased baking sheet or in a greased 9×13-inch pan.
6. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a damp cloth and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with a beaten egg (optional, for a golden finish) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top.
8. Serve: Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter or your favorite dipping sauce.

Advanced Techniques

While the basic recipe for sweet potato rolls is relatively simple, there are a few techniques you can employ to elevate your baking skills and create even more delicious rolls.

1. Flavor Enhancements

To enhance the flavor of your Sweet Potato Rolls, consider adding a few spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or even garlic powder. Cinnamon pairs wonderfully with sweet potatoes, creating a slight warmth and depth of flavor. Nutmeg adds a subtle earthy undertone that complements the sweetness of the potatoes. For a savory variation, garlic powder or finely chopped herbs like rosemary can elevate the rolls into an herbed masterpiece.

2. Adding a Tangy Twist with Buttermilk

To create a slightly tangier roll, try incorporating buttermilk into the dough. Replace some of the water with buttermilk to add a rich, slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. This will also help create a slightly fluffier texture.

3. Kneading and Proofing for Perfection

Kneading is essential to developing the structure of your dough, and proofing plays a crucial role in making your rolls light and airy. Be sure to knead the dough for at least 8-10 minutes, allowing the gluten to develop. For the best texture, ensure you let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place. If you live in a cooler climate, you can proof your dough in an oven with just the light on.

4. Steam for Extra Softness

If you’re aiming for incredibly soft rolls, try adding steam to your oven while baking. Place a shallow pan of hot water on the lower rack of your oven while the rolls are baking. This will create steam, which helps to keep the rolls moist and adds a soft, fluffy texture.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Proper storage of your Sweet Potato Rolls will ensure they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: If you plan on eating the rolls within a few days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the rolls. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Refrigeration: While refrigerating rolls is not ideal for long-term storage, it can help preserve them for 2-3 days if you don’t plan on finishing them immediately.

Shelf Life

Sweet Potato Rolls will last up to 3 days at room temperature. If frozen, they can last up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them properly before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

If you need to make these Sweet Potato Rolls suitable for specific dietary requirements, there are several substitutions you can make.

1. Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Rolls

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may also need to add a binding agent like xanthan gum, which helps mimic the structure of gluten.

2. Vegan Sweet Potato Rolls

To make these rolls vegan, swap out the egg wash for a plant-based option, like almond milk, and substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut oil or vegan margarine.

3. Dairy-Free Sweet Potato Rolls

For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of the traditional butter. Additionally, choose a non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, if you need to replace any liquid ingredients.

FAQs About The Recipe

Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?

A: Yes! Canned sweet potatoes can be used in place of fresh ones. Just make sure they are drained and mashed well before using them in the recipe.

Q: Why did my rolls turn out dense?

A: Dense rolls could be the result of not kneading the dough enough or not allowing it to rise long enough. Ensure that you knead the dough thoroughly and allow it to rise in a warm place to achieve a light, airy texture.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and baking the rolls the next day.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Sweet Potato Rolls are a delicious twist on traditional bread rolls. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these rolls are sure to be a hit. Their soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness will complement a variety of dishes. With a few simple steps and some advanced techniques, you’ll be able to create perfect sweet potato rolls every time. So, roll up your sleeves, get in the kitchen, and enjoy this comforting, flavorful treat!