What To Know
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced twist.
- For a savory touch, try a garlic-herb butter or a parmesan cheese glaze.
Craving the fluffy, pillowy goodness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls? Baking them at home is easier than you think! These iconic rolls are a staple for everything from burgers and hot dogs to sandwiches and even desserts. This guide will walk you through the process of baking King‘s Hawaiian Rolls from scratch, ensuring you achieve the perfect, melt-in-your-mouth results.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start kneading and baking, gather all the necessary ingredients. You’ll need:
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Activating the Yeast
The foundation of any good bread lies in a lively yeast. Start by combining the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This indicates it’s active and ready to work its magic.
Combining the Ingredients
Once the yeast is frothy, add the softened butter, egg, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Kneading the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shaping the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by rolling it between your hands. Arrange the balls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each one.
Second Rise
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
Baking the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Adding the Sweetness: The Glaze
While the rolls are still warm, brush them with the melted butter and sprinkle with granulated sugar. This creates the signature sweet and buttery glaze that makes King’s Hawaiian Rolls so irresistible.
The Moment of Truth: Enjoy!
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
A Culinary Adventure: Beyond the Basics
Now that you’ve mastered the art of baking King‘s Hawaiian Rolls, let’s explore some creative ways to elevate your baking game:
- Flavor Infusions: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced twist.
- Sweet and Savory Toppings: Experiment with different glazes, like a honey-ginger glaze or a maple-pecan glaze. For a savory touch, try a garlic-herb butter or a parmesan cheese glaze.
- Creative Shapes: Instead of traditional rolls, try shaping the dough into braids, twists, or even mini-loaves.
FAQs
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute for active dry yeast. However, you may need to adjust the amount slightly. Typically, you’ll use 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast for every 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast.
Q: How do I know if my yeast is active?
A: Active yeast will foam and bubble when combined with warm water and sugar. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it’s likely inactive and you’ll need to use fresh yeast.
Q: Can I freeze King’s Hawaiian Rolls?
A: Yes, you can freeze King’s Hawaiian Rolls. To freeze, cool the rolls completely after baking and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: What can I use King’s Hawaiian Rolls for?
A: King’s Hawaiian Rolls are incredibly versatile! They’re perfect for burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, sliders, and even desserts like French toast or bread pudding.
A Toast to Your Baking Success
Baking King’s Hawaiian Rolls from scratch is a rewarding experience, and the results are well worth the effort. With a little practice and attention to detail, you’ll be able to create the perfect fluffy, sweet rolls that will impress your family and friends. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get baking! Enjoy the delicious journey!
