Sweet potato rolls offer a delicious twist on the classic dinner roll, incorporating the natural sweetness and vibrant color of sweet potatoes into a soft, fluffy bread. Not only do they bring a unique flavor and nutritional boost to the table, but they’re also a visually appealing addition to any meal. Below is a simple recipe to make your own sweet potato rolls at home.
Ingredients:
1 medium-sized sweet potato (about 1 cup mashed)
1/4 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
3 tablespoons sugar, divided
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup milk, warmed
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
Prepare the Sweet Potato:
Peel and dice the sweet potato into small cubes. Boil in water until tender, about 15 minutes.
Drain and cool slightly.
Mash the sweet potato until smooth. You’ll need 1 cup of mashed sweet potato for this recipe.
Set aside to cool to lukewarm.
Yeast Mixture:
In a small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, remaining sugar, melted butter, warm milk, egg, and salt. Mix well.
Add the yeast mixture to the sweet potato mixture and stir until well combined.
Add Flour:
Gradually add flour, starting with 3 1/2 cups, and mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If necessary, add more flour, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Shape and Second Rise:
Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal pieces, shaping each into a ball.
Place the balls on a greased baking sheet or in a round cake pan for closer rolls. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30 minutes.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top.
Optionally, brush the tops with melted butter immediately after taking them out of the oven for a soft crust.
Serve:
Let the rolls cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with butter or as a side to your main dish.
Tips and Variations:
Herbs and Spices: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance, let it rise, shape the rolls, and then refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature and complete the second rise before baking.
Storage: Sweet potato rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or frozen for longer storage.
Sweet potato rolls are a versatile and wholesome addition to any meal, blending the nutritious benefits of sweet potatoes with the comfort of homemade bread. Whether served at a holiday dinner or enjoyed as a tasty snack, these rolls are sure to impress with their tender texture and delightful flavor.
The beauty of sweet potato rolls lies not only in their taste but also in their adaptability. Here are additional ideas and tips to elevate your sweet potato rolls even further:
Customizing Your Rolls:
Vegan Version: To make vegan sweet potato rolls, substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or soy milk, use a vegan butter substitute, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 15 minutes).
Whole Wheat Option: For a healthier twist, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will give your rolls a nuttier flavor and increase their dietary fiber content.
Serving Suggestions:
Holiday Gatherings: Their unique color and flavor make sweet potato rolls a perfect addition to holiday meals. Serve them alongside traditional dishes for Thanksgiving or Christmas to add a touch of warmth and comfort.
Breakfast or Brunch: Sweet potato rolls can be sliced in half and toasted for a delicious breakfast option. Top them with a spread of cream cheese and a drizzle of honey for a sweet start to your day.
With Soup or Stew: These rolls are excellent for dipping into your favorite soups or stews. The sweet potato flavor pairs wonderfully with both meat-based and vegetarian options, making them a versatile side dish.
Creative Add-Ins:
Nuts and Seeds: Add a crunchy texture to your rolls by incorporating nuts or seeds into the dough. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch and a boost of nutrition.
Dried Fruit: For a sweeter roll, consider adding dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots into the dough. This variation is especially fitting for breakfast or brunch.
Making it a Meal:
Sweet potato rolls can be more than just a side dish; they can be the star of the meal with a little creativity:
Mini Sandwiches: Use the rolls to make mini sandwiches for a party or a picnic. Fill them with deli meats, cheese, and your favorite condiments for a bite-sized treat.
Stuffed Rolls: Before the final shaping and second rise, flatten each piece of dough and add a filling of your choice (cheese, garlic butter, or even a sweet filling like cinnamon sugar), then seal and shape the roll. This method turns ordinary rolls into a surprising and delightful treat.
Sweet potato rolls are a testament to the versatility and comfort of homemade bread. By incorporating sweet potatoes, not only do we add a nutritional boost, but we also introduce a beautiful color and a subtle sweetness that complements a variety of dishes. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply looking to elevate your bread-making skills, sweet potato rolls are a delightful choice that will impress your guests and satisfy your palate. Remember, the key to successful bread making is patience and practice. Enjoy the process and the delicious results of your effort!
