Buttery Bread Rolls

There’s something undeniably magical about the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. For me, Parker House Rolls have always been a labor of love—a buttery indulgence that’s both timeless and versatile. These soft, pillowy buns are a staple at family gatherings, and they’ve been the star of many celebratory dinners, casual get-togethers, and even last-minute meals where their comforting aroma transformed the day.

What makes these rolls so special is their unique combination of simplicity and decadence. Covered in butter before baking, they emerge from the oven with a golden, glossy crust that gives way to an irresistibly fluffy interior. They’re the perfect companion for soups and stews, an elegant addition to your holiday table, or an ideal base for hamburger sliders that will have everyone reaching for seconds (or thirds!).

Over the years, these rolls have become a family favorite—not just for their flavor but for the joy they bring to the table. There’s something so satisfying about watching loved ones reach for a warm roll, savoring that first buttery bite. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love baking and sharing recipes.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at bread for the first time, this recipe is as rewarding as it is delicious. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, embrace the butter, and bake some joy into our kitchens with these classic Parker House Rolls!

Parker House Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:

2 packets (or 2 tbsp.) yeast
1 tbsp. sugar
1/3 cup warm water (about 105°F)
1 cup milk
1 cup water
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tsp. salt
1/4 cup honey
2 slightly beaten eggs
6 to 6 1/2 cups flour
1/3 cup melted butter (for brushing rolls)

Instructions:

Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture starts to bloom and gets foamy.
Prepare the Dough Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and water (heat to about 105°–110°F). Add the melted butter, honey, eggs, and salt. Stir well to blend everything together.
Mix in the Flour:
Add 5 1/2 cups of flour to the wet ingredients. Using a dough hook or mixer, beat the mixture for 4 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed. If you're mixing by hand, stir vigorously to incorporate the flour.
Knead the Dough:
Gradually add more flour until the dough pulls away cleanly from the sides of the bowl. If kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, adding flour as needed, until smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp, clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot until it doubles in size (about 1–1 1/2 hours).
Shape the Rolls:
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into evenly sized portions (about 24 rolls for slider-sized buns or larger if desired). Roll each portion into a ball and place on a greased baking sheet, leaving enough space between for a second rise.
Second Rise:
Cover the rolls lightly with a towel and let them rise again for about 30–40 minutes until puffy.
Butter and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls generously with melted butter and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, brush with a little more butter for extra shine. Serve warm and watch them disappear!

These Parker House Rolls are buttery perfection, and they’re guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner at home, you’ll find every occasion calls for these irresistible buns!

Once the dough has risen, punch down gently and fold it in on itself before dropping onto a well-floured surface. Separate into 16 large parts or 20 smaller parts.

Let rest 10 minutes. Shape into buns and flatten well. Let them rise 25 to 35 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 400° F.

Brush melted butter over the risen buns and sprinkle with coarse sea salt or fleur de sel. Bake for 15 minutes depending on your oven.

This recipe is family approved!

Bon appétit my friends!

Serve with my Osso Bucco and wow your family and friends!