Name: School Cafeteria Yeast Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp yeast; 1 cup warm water (for activating yeast); 6 cups bread flour; 11 Tbsp instant non-fat dry milk powder; 6 Tbsp sugar; 1 Tbsp salt; 6 Tbsp vegetable oil; 1 cup water (additional moisture for dough)

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There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the smell of freshly baked rolls wafting through school hallways. These School Cafeteria Yeast Rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up gravy or accompanying your favorite soup. Imagine pulling apart a warm roll, the steam rising as you slather on a pat of butter. It’s comfort food at its finest, and the best part? You can recreate this cafeteria classic right in your home kitchen!

Why This School Cafeteria Yeast Rolls Stands Out

These School Cafeteria Yeast Rolls stand out not only for their incredible taste but also for their ease of preparation. They are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The combination of instant non-fat dry milk powder and bread flour gives these rolls a unique texture that is soft yet sturdy enough to hold up to any spread. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, these rolls are sure to please both kids and adults alike!

The Essentials

To make these delightful rolls, you’ll need the following essential ingredients:

2 Tbsp yeast: This is key for the rolls to rise and become fluffy.
1 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and helps with the dough consistency.
6 cups bread flour: Provides the structure and chewiness that makes these rolls so satisfying.
11 Tbsp instant non-fat dry milk powder: Adds richness and enhances the texture.
6 Tbsp sugar: Balances the flavors and promotes browning.
1 Tbsp salt: Essential for flavor and fermentation control.
6 Tbsp vegetable oil: Keeps the rolls moist and adds flavor.
1 cup water: Additional moisture for the dough.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you dive into baking, gather the following tools:

Mixing bowl: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking.
Wooden spoon or dough hook: To mix and knead the dough.
Plastic wrap or kitchen towel: For covering the dough while it rises.
Baking sheet: To bake your rolls on; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Oven: Preheated to create ideal baking conditions.

Stepwise Method: School Cafeteria Yeast Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that your yeast is active and ready to go!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, dry milk powder, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour the activated yeast mixture along with the vegetable oil and additional water into the well of the dry ingredients. Mix until combined.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, mix on medium speed with a dough hook for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal pieces (about 12-15) and shape them into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each roll.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they have puffed up.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 9: Bake

Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.

Step 10: Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, and enjoy the nostalgia of your school cafeteria with each delicious bite!

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

Take your School Cafeteria Yeast Rolls to the next level by incorporating seasonal flavors. Here are some ideas:

Garlic & Herb: Add minced garlic and dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist.
Cinnamon Sugar: Mix cinnamon and sugar into the dough before shaping for a sweet variation.
Cheddar & Chive: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives for a cheesy treat.
Honey Butter: Serve with a honey butter spread for a delightful sweetness.

Behind the Recipe

These School Cafeteria Yeast Rolls are inspired by the classic rolls served in school cafeterias across the country. The combination of instant non-fat dry milk powder and bread flour gives these rolls their signature lightness and fluffiness. The recipe is straightforward, allowing everyone from novice bakers to seasoned pros to create a batch of delicious rolls that evoke warm memories of lunchtime favorites.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To ensure your rolls stay fresh, consider the following storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen rolls in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What should I do if my rolls did not rise?

If your rolls did not rise, the yeast may not have been active. Ensure that your yeast is fresh and check the water temperature — it should be warm, not hot. If the dough is too cold, consider placing it in a warmer spot.

Why are my rolls dense?

Dense rolls can result from over-kneading the dough or not allowing it enough time to rise. Ensure you knead just until smooth and give the dough ample time to double in size.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the rolls may turn out slightly less chewy. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which contributes to the rolls’ texture.

How can I make my rolls sweeter?

If you prefer sweeter rolls, increase the sugar in the recipe by 1-2 tablespoons. You could also glaze the rolls with a simple syrup after baking for added sweetness.

Desserts to Finish

Round out your meal with these delicious dessert ideas:

Bring It Home

Bringing the taste of your school cafeteria into your kitchen with these School Cafeteria Yeast Rolls is not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about reliving cherished memories. Whether served at a family dinner or a holiday feast, these rolls are sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can master this recipe and enjoy the soft, fluffy goodness of homemade rolls any time you desire. So, preheat your oven, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked School Cafeteria Yeast Rolls!