Handmade Sub Rolls

Name: Handmade Sub Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons); 1 1/2 cups warm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil

There’s something undeniably comforting about handmade sub rolls. Whether you’re crafting the perfect sandwich or serving them alongside a hearty soup, these rolls add warmth and satisfaction to any meal. They are soft, yet sturdy enough to hold in all your favorite fillings, elevating your dining experience to a whole new level. Get ready to explore the delightful process of making these delicious rolls in your own kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

Perfect for sandwiches, they provide a delightful chewiness and freshness that store-bought varieties just cannot match.
The homemade aroma wafts through your home, creating a cozy atmosphere and enhancing the entire cooking experience.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

How to Make Handmade Sub Rolls

Making handmade sub rolls at home allows you to bring bakery freshness straight to your table. The process is straightforward and filled with moments of anticipation as you transform simple ingredients into golden, fluffy rolls. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide that will empower you to bring this delightful recipe to life.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the mixing and kneading, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
1 1/2 cups warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring that the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This initial mix allows the yeast to activate properly when you add the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon, mix the ingredients together until a dough begins to form. As the mixture comes together, you will see the flour absorbing the liquids, creating a shaggy mass.

Step 4: Kneading Time

Now for the fun part! Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and begin kneading. This step is crucial, as it develops the gluten, giving your rolls that perfect chewy texture. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You might find that you need to sprinkle a little more flour to keep things from sticking.

Step 5: First Rise

After kneading, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This step allows the yeast to work its magic, creating those lovely air pockets that make your rolls fluffy.

Step 6: Punching Down and Dividing

Once the dough has risen, it’s time to deflate it gently. Punch down the dough with your fist to release the air. Then, transfer it back to the floured surface and divide it into eight equal pieces. Keep your bench scraper handy for this step — it will help in evenly portioning the dough.

Step 7: Shaping the Rolls

Take each piece and shape it into a roll. You can do this by flattening the piece into a small oval and then rolling it up from one end to the other, tucking in the edges as you go. Place the shaped rolls seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 8: Second Rise

Now it’s time for the rolls to rise again. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them sit for another 30 minutes. This second rise is important for ensuring that the rolls are light and airy.

Step 9: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the rolls will start baking immediately once they are ready, getting that perfect golden crust.

Step 10: Bake Your Rolls

After the second rise, it’s time to bake! Place the rolls in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown. The smell of baking rolls will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack before serving. Letting them cool helps in setting their structure, making them easier to slice for sandwiches.

Storage Tips for Handmade Sub Rolls

To keep your handmade sub rolls fresh and tasty for as long as possible, consider the following storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store unsliced rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you want to extend their life a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for 4 to 5 days at around 40°F. Just be aware that refrigeration might affect their texture slightly.
Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the rolls in a plastic freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the toaster or oven for a quick reheat.

Best Ways to Serve Handmade Sub Rolls

These handmade sub rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of delightful ways:

Classic Subs: Load them with your favorite meats, cheeses, and veggies for a classic sandwich experience.
Sliders: Cut the rolls into mini versions and make sliders for a fun appetizer at parties.
Breakfast Rolls: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked sausage for a hearty breakfast sandwich that’s sure to please.
Soup Companion: Their soft texture makes them perfect for dipping into soups or stews. Serve them alongside your favorite bowl of chili or chicken noodle soup.
Grilled Cheese: Use the rolls to make gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, adding a twist of flavors with brie, bacon, or tomato slices.

Tips to Make Handmade Sub Rolls

Here are a few quick tips to ensure your homemade rolls are a hit:

Don’t Skimp on Kneading: Proper dough development enhances texture. Make sure to knead sufficiently.
Control Temperature: Yeast thrives in warmth. If your kitchen is cold, consider creating a warm environment for rising, like using your oven with the light on.
Experiment with Toppings: Try brushing the rolls with melted butter right after they come out of the oven for a delectable shine and flavor.

Variations or Substitutions

Looking to mix things up? Here are a couple of variations you might enjoy:

Herbed Rolls: Incorporate dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic touch. Simply add about 1 tablespoon of your chosen herb when mixing dry ingredients for added flavor.
Whole Wheat Option: For a healthier twist, swap out half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just be aware that the texture might be slightly denser, but it’ll have a rich flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the second rise, refrigerate it overnight, and then bake them the next day. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before baking.

Q: Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, bread flour works wonderfully for these rolls! It will create a chewier texture due to its higher protein content.

Q: How do I keep the rolls from becoming hard?
A: Make sure you store them in an airtight container as soon as they are room temperature. This will help retain moisture.

Q: Can I add cheese to the dough?
A: Certainly! Adding shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, can infuse additional flavor and richness. Just be cautious of the dough’s overall hydration; you may need to reduce the liquid slightly.

Making homemade sub rolls is an enriching endeavor that not only fills your kitchen with enticing aromas but also indulges your taste buds with unmatched freshness. With easy-to-follow steps and a few pantry staples, you can create rolls that stand as the perfect base for any meal. So roll up your sleeves and let the magic of baking commence! Your sandwiches will never be the same again.