Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls Recipe

Mashed sweet potatoes: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the rolls.

Warmed milk: Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.

Melted butter: Provides flavor and tenderness to the rolls.

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

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.

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

All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the rolls.

When kneading the dough, ensure to 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 structure, making the rolls light and fluffy. If the dough becomes too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour onto the surface, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the rolls dense.

• mashed sweet potatoes - Substitute with mashed butternut squash: Both have a similar texture and sweetness, making them interchangeable in most recipes.

• warmed milk - Substitute with warmed almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar consistency and can be used for a dairy-free option.

• melted butter - Substitute with melted coconut oil: Coconut oil offers a similar fat content and can be used for a dairy-free alternative.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and can be used in a slightly lesser amount due to its higher sweetness intensity.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor profile.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not require proofing, making it a convenient alternative.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may result in a denser texture.

• Allow the sweet potato dinner rolls to cool completely at room temperature before storing or freezing.
• For short-term storage, place the rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you need to store them for a longer period, consider refrigerating. Place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• For freezing, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped rolls in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen rolls at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Warm them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• For a quicker option, you can microwave individual rolls. Wrap a roll in a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• To maintain the soft texture, avoid overbaking when reheating.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the sweet potato dinner rolls in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain their soft and fluffy texture.

• Microwave Method: Place the sweet potato dinner rolls on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds per roll. Check and add more time if necessary, but be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.

• Steaming Method: Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a steaming basket over the pot and arrange the sweet potato dinner rolls in the basket. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps the rolls moist and soft.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sweet potato dinner rolls directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is quick and effective for a small batch.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the sweet potato dinner rolls in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method gives the rolls a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.

• Large mixing bowl: To combine the warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast, and later to mix in the mashed sweet potatoes and flour.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the milk, mashed sweet potatoes, and flour accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the sugar, salt, and yeast precisely.

• Whisk: To mix the milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast together until frothy.

• Wooden spoon: To mix the mashed sweet potatoes and salt into the yeast mixture and to gradually add the flour.

• Floured surface: To knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.

• Greased bowl: To place the dough in for its first rise.

• Clean kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises.

• Baking sheet: To place the shaped dough balls on for their final rise and baking.

• Oven: To bake the sweet potato dinner rolls to a golden brown.

• Pastry brush: Optional, to brush melted butter on the rolls after baking for extra flavor and shine.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and prepare all ingredients like mashed sweet potatoes, warm milk, and melted butter before starting.

Use a stand mixer: If you have a stand mixer, use it to mix and knead the dough to save time and effort.

Quick rise method: Place the dough in a slightly warm oven (around 100°F or 38°C) to speed up the rising process.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while shaping the dough balls to save time.