Kefir Dinner Rolls Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.

Kefir: A fermented milk drink that adds tanginess and helps the dough rise.

Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.

Active dry yeast: Leavens the dough, making it rise and become fluffy.

Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the rolls.

When kneading the dough, ensure you use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself. This technique helps develop the gluten, giving the rolls their desired texture. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the rolls dense.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the rolls denser.

• kefir - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk has a similar tangy flavor and consistency, making it a good alternative.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral taste.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used directly without proofing and works faster.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil adds a different flavor and is a healthier fat option, though it may change the texture slightly.

• To keep your kefir dinner rolls fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer, you can also wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable plastic bag.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the rolls. First, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped rolls in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container.

• When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen kefir dinner rolls, simply remove the desired number of rolls from the freezer. Allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

• To reheat the rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed rolls on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Warm them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through.

• For an extra touch of freshness, brush the reheated rolls with a bit of melted butter before serving. This will give them a delightful shine and enhance their flavor.

• If you find yourself in a hurry, you can also reheat the rolls in the microwave. Place a damp paper towel over the rolls and microwave them on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can make the rolls tough.

• For a creative twist, consider adding a sprinkle of herbs or grated cheese on top of the rolls before reheating. This will give them a burst of flavor and make them even more irresistible.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the kefir dinner rolls in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until they are warm and soft.

• For a quicker method, you can use a microwave. Place a damp paper towel over the kefir dinner rolls and microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the kefir dinner rolls in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method will give them a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.

• For a stovetop method, you can use a skillet. Heat the skillet over medium-low heat and place the kefir dinner rolls in it. Cover with a lid and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warmed through.

• If you prefer a steam method, place the kefir dinner rolls in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until they are warm and soft. This method helps retain moisture in the rolls.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the warm kefir and sugar, and later to mix the dough ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, kefir, sugar, and other ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring smaller quantities like salt, yeast, and melted butter.

• Whisk: Helps to mix the kefir and sugar together and to sprinkle the yeast evenly.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for mixing the dough until it forms.

• Floured surface: Provides a non-stick area to knead the dough.

• Dough scraper: Handy for dividing the dough into equal pieces.

• Greased bowl: Used to let the dough rise without sticking.

• Kitchen towel: Covers the dough while it rises.

• Baking sheet: Holds the shaped rolls for their final rise and baking.

• Oven: Preheated to bake the rolls to a golden brown.

• Pastry brush: Used to brush melted butter onto the hot rolls.

• Cooling rack: Allows the rolls to cool slightly before serving.

Warm the kefir: Use slightly warm kefir to speed up the yeast activation process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer with a dough hook can save you time on kneading.

Pre-measure ingredients: Have all ingredients measured and ready before starting to streamline the process.

Quick rise method: Place the dough in a warm oven (around 100°F) to speed up the rising time.

Divide dough efficiently: Use a kitchen scale to quickly and evenly divide the dough into 12 pieces.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while the rolls are doing their second rise to save time.