Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Savory and soft, Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal. Their unique blend of nutty flavors from the browned butter and aromatic herbs like sage makes them perfect for fall, winter, or holiday gatherings. These rolls are easy to make and will impress your family and guests alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The browning of the butter adds a delicious nutty taste that elevates these dinner rolls.
- Aromatic Herbs: Fresh sage and thyme not only enhance the flavor but also fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma.
- Versatile Pairing: These rolls complement a variety of dishes, making them ideal for holiday meals or casual dinners.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare these rolls in advance, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.
- Soft Texture: The combination of ingredients results in fluffy, tender rolls that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, gather some essential tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Light-colored skillet or saucepan
- Medium heatproof bowl
- Silicone spatula
- Dough hook (if using stand mixer)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer: Makes mixing and kneading easier, producing a consistent dough texture.
- Light-Colored Skillet: Helps you monitor the browning of the butter, ensuring it achieves the perfect caramel color without burning.
- Silicone Spatula: Ideal for scraping down sides of the bowl without damaging it.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
– 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk or buttermilk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
– 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast (1 standard packet)
– 3 Tablespoons (64g) honey, divided
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage leaves, plus an extra pinch for topping
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– 3 cups (390g) bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed
– optional: flaky sea salt, for finishing
How to Make Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Set out a medium heatproof bowl because you’ll need it at the end of this step. Place the sliced butter in a light-colored skillet or saucepan. Melt the butter over medium heat while stirring or whisking constantly. After about 5–7 minutes, the butter will begin browning with lightly browned specks forming at the bottom. Remove from heat once it reaches a light caramel-brown color, pour into the bowl, and let cool for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Yeast Mixture
In your stand mixer bowl or a regular large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Loosely cover and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add remaining honey, egg, 6 tablespoons of slightly cooled brown butter (reserve some for brushing later), salt, sage, thyme, and 1 cup of bread flour. With a dough hook or paddle attachment, mix on low speed for 30 seconds. Scrape down sides then add remaining flour. Beat on medium speed until dough pulls away from sides of the bowl.
Step 4: Knead Dough
Keep dough in mixer (switching to dough hook if needed) and knead for an additional 5 minutes. If kneading by hand, do so on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes. The dough should feel soft but not sticky.
Step 5: First Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or nonstick spray. Place dough in the bowl and turn to coat all sides with oil. Cover with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm environment for about 1.5–2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 6: Prepare Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or two round baking pans while waiting for your dough to rise. You may also use a cast iron skillet or lined baking sheet if preferred.
Continue following each step in this recipe to create delicious Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls that will surely become a favorite!
How to Serve Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are the perfect complement to any meal, especially during the cooler months. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them a delightful addition to your dinner table. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious rolls.
With Savory Dishes
- Roast Chicken – Serve these rolls alongside a juicy roast chicken for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
- Stuffed Peppers – The lightness of the rolls balances beautifully with the hearty flavors of stuffed peppers.
- Beef Stew – Enjoy these rolls dipped in a warm, savory beef stew, soaking up all the delicious juices.
As a Snack
- With Honey Butter – Spread sweet honey butter on warm rolls for an irresistible snack or breakfast treat.
- Cheese Platter – Pair your rolls with a selection of cheeses and charcuterie for an elegant appetizer.
- Dipping Sauce – Offer a variety of dipping sauces like garlic butter or marinara for a fun twist.
For Holiday Meals
- Thanksgiving Feast – These rolls are a must-have at any Thanksgiving dinner, adding warmth and richness to the holiday spread.
- Christmas Dinner – Serve with glazed ham or turkey, making every bite festive and flavorful.
How to Perfect Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
To ensure your Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Always check that your yeast is fresh for optimal rising; stale yeast can lead to dense rolls.
- Monitor Butter Temperature – Let the brown butter cool slightly before mixing it in; this prevents cooking the egg when added.
- Knead Properly – Knead until the dough passes the windowpane test to achieve that soft, airy texture.
- Warm Rising Environment – Allow your dough to rise in a warm place; this encourages better fermentation and fluffiness.
- Avoid Overbaking – Keep an eye on your rolls while baking; they should be golden brown but not too dark. Use an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) as a guide.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Pairing side dishes with Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls enhances their delightful flavor. Here are some excellent options that will elevate your meal.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with any protein.
- Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate, making it visually appealing.
- Creamy Pumpkin Soup – This soup brings warmth and spice, creating a lovely contrast with the rolls’ nuttiness.
- Herbed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans seasoned with herbs provide freshness that complements the rich rolls well.
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tang, balancing the softness of the dinner rolls perfectly.
- Braised Red Cabbage – The sweetness and tanginess of braised red cabbage enhance the savory flavors of the meal while providing beautiful color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can be delightful, but small mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your milk and egg are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can hinder yeast activation, affecting dough rise.
- Not browning the butter properly: Pay attention while browning the butter. If it burns, it will impart a bitter taste to your rolls. Look for a light caramel-brown color and a nutty aroma.
- Over-kneading the dough: Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can make the rolls tough instead of soft and fluffy.
- Skipping the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for airy rolls. Don’t rush this step; give it enough time to double in size.
- Underbaking or overbaking: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. They should be golden brown; underbaked rolls will be doughy, while overbaked ones will be dry.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place a piece of wax paper between layers if stacking.
Freezing Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm. This keeps them soft.
- Microwave: Heat individually for about 15-20 seconds. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes for a soft texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls.
Can I use regular yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Just activate it in warm milk with sugar before adding it to the dough mixture.
How do I know when my rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check with a kitchen thermometer; they should reach around 190°F (88°C) internally.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding herbs like rosemary or spices such as garlic powder for extra flavor.
How do I make these dinner rolls ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. Shape and bake them fresh the next day!
Final Thoughts
These Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not just delicious but also versatile enough for any meal—from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. Customize them with your favorite herbs or toppings for an even more personalized touch that friends and family will love!
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 rolls 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, a delightful addition to any meal. These rolls are beautifully soft and bursting with rich, nutty flavors from browned butter and aromatic sage, making them ideal for cozy fall evenings and festive holiday gatherings. Easy to prepare, they promise to impress your family and guests alike. Whether served alongside a roast or enjoyed as a snack with honey butter, these rolls are sure to become a staple on your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup whole milk or buttermilk
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 3 cups bread flour
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a light-colored skillet over medium heat until caramelized, then cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and honey; let sit until foamy.
- Add egg, cooled butter (reserve some), salt, herbs, and bread flour; mix until dough forms.
- Knead the dough until smooth (5 minutes), then let rise in a greased bowl until doubled (1.5–2 hours).
- Shape into rolls and place in a greased baking pan; allow to rise again briefly.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (50g)
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 24mg
