Introduction

These classic Parker House Rolls are soft, buttery, and slightly sweet with their signature folded shape. Perfect for holiday dinners or any special meal, they are surprisingly simple to make from scratch. For another delightful sweet roll, try the Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze Recipe. This recipe yields fluffy, irresistible rolls that everyone will love.

Ingredients

These soft, buttery Parker House Rolls are known for their signature fold and tender, fluffy texture that pulls apart beautifully.

• 1 cup whole milk (warmed to about 110°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (at room temperature)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled, plus more for brushing)
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 3 to 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)

Timing

Prep Time	30 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	2 hours 50 minutes (includes rising)

Context: This Parker House Rolls recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes due to a streamlined rising process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Activate the Yeast

Combine warm milk (105–110°F), sugar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your Parker House Rolls will rise properly.

Step 2 — Mix the Dough

Add softened butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Tip: Avoid adding too much flour, which can make the rolls dense.

Step 3 — Knead and First Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4 — Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and roll it out to ½-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to form circles. Brush each circle with melted butter, then fold in half to create the classic Parker House Rolls shape.

Step 5 — Second Rise

Arrange the shaped rolls in a buttered baking dish, slightly overlapping. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 375°F during this time.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Brush the risen rolls with more melted butter and bake for 18–22 minutes. They’re done when golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.

For extra softness, cover rolls with a towel as they cool.

Step 7 — Serve Warm

Let the Parker House Rolls cool slightly before pulling apart. Serve warm with extra butter for the best flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

Calories	110
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	19g
Fat	3g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	170mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Whole Wheat Flour — Substitute half the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• Greek Yogurt — Replace some butter with Greek yogurt for extra protein and a tender, moist crumb.
• Almond or Coconut Flour — Use a gluten-free blend for lower-carb Parker House Rolls with a slightly denser texture.
• Olive Oil — Swap butter for olive oil to reduce saturated fat and introduce a subtle, fruity note.
• Unsweetened Applesauce — Use in place of some sugar for natural sweetness and moisture with fewer calories.
• Plant-Based Milk & Butter — Choose dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter for a lactose-free version.
• Reduced Sodium — Cut salt by half and enhance flavor with herbs like rosemary or garlic powder.
• Honey or Maple Syrup — Substitute refined sugar for a natural sweetener with a richer, nuanced sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair warm Parker House Rolls with creamy soups like clam chowder or tomato bisque for a comforting meal.
• Serve these soft rolls alongside holiday feasts, especially Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham.
• Transform Parker House Rolls into mini sliders with roast beef, horseradish sauce, and arugula for elegant appetizers.
• Offer with a compound butter—such as honey butter or garlic-herb butter—to enhance their rich, buttery flavor.
• Accompany a classic steak dinner with Parker House Rolls to soak up savory juices and sauces.
• Arrange rolls in a cloth-lined basket to keep them warm and present them family-style at gatherings.

Whether for everyday meals or special occasions, Parker House Rolls add a touch of homemade warmth to any table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold or hot milk, which can kill yeast or inhibit gluten development. Fix: Warm milk to 105–115°F for optimal yeast activation and a soft crumb.
• Mistake: Over-flouring the dough, making rolls dense and dry. Fix: Add flour gradually until the dough is tacky but not overly sticky.
• Mistake: Skipping the butter fold, losing the classic Parker House shape and buttery layers. Fix: Brush melted butter on each dough round before folding it in half.
• Mistake: Rushing the rise, resulting in flat, underproofed rolls. Fix: Let dough double in size in a warm, draft-free spot—about 1–2 hours.
• Mistake: Baking in a cold oven, which prevents proper spring and browning. Fix: Always preheat your oven fully before baking for even, golden results.
• Mistake: Overbaking, leading to tough, dry Parker House Rolls. Fix: Bake just until golden brown, about 15–20 minutes, and check internal temperature (190°F).
• Mistake: Not brushing with butter after baking, missing out on flavor and softness. Fix: Generously brush warm rolls with melted butter right out of the oven.
• Mistake: Crowding rolls in the pan, which prevents proper expansion and browning. Fix: Space rolls evenly so they have room to rise and bake uniformly.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Parker House Rolls in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap Parker House Rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag; freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm Parker House Rolls in a 350°F oven until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, about 5–10 minutes.

Always allow freshly baked Parker House Rolls to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

These soft, buttery Parker House Rolls are a timeless classic perfect for any dinner table. They pair wonderfully with dishes like Turkey Gravy or BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Give this recipe a try and share your results in the comments below!

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FAQs

Why are my Parker House Rolls dense and not fluffy?

Dense Parker House Rolls often result from over-kneading the dough or using old yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active, and knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic. Proper rising time is also crucial for achieving that classic fluffy texture.

Can I make Parker House Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the rolls a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate them, then let them come to room temperature and complete their final rise before baking. This makes Parker House Rolls a convenient option for holiday meals.

How do I get the signature fold and buttery taste in Parker House Rolls?

To create the classic fold, roll the dough into circles, brush with melted butter, and make a slightly off-center crease before folding. Brushing the tops with more butter right after baking enhances their rich flavor and soft crust, making these Parker House Rolls irresistible.