Cake Mix Dinner Rolls

Cake Mix Dinner Rolls are the perfect solution for those who want to enjoy homemade bread without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, including a convenient cake mix, you can whip up a batch of fluffy, golden rolls that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish at dinner or enjoying them fresh from the oven with butter, these rolls are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Cake Mix Dinner Rolls stand out is their simplicity and the unique twist of using cake mix as a base. This not only adds a hint of sweetness but also makes the dough incredibly soft and tender. The combination of active dry yeast and warm water creates the perfect rise, ensuring your rolls are light and fluffy. Plus, they come together in a fraction of the time compared to traditional bread recipes, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredient Breakdown

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

• 1 (0.25-oz) package active dry yeast: This is the leavening agent that helps the dough rise.
• 1 cup warm water: The warmth activates the yeast, ensuring a good rise.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the structure of the rolls and gives them their chewy texture.
• 1 (9-oz) package yellow cake mix: Adds sweetness and moisture, making the rolls tender.
• 1/2 cup butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder and helps achieve a golden color on the rolls.
• 1 Tbsp water: To mix with the beaten egg for egg wash.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start baking, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.
• Whisk or fork: For mixing the egg wash.
• Baking sheet: To place the rolls on for baking.
• Kitchen towel: For covering the dough while it rises.
• Oven mitts: To safely handle hot pans.

Cake Mix Dinner Rolls: How It’s Done

Creating these Cake Mix Dinner Rolls is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to achieve bakery-quality rolls at home.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and yellow cake mix. This combination will provide the structure and flavor for your rolls.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add in the melted butter and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour and cake mix mixture to the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for developing the gluten, which will give your rolls their fluffy texture.

Step 6: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 7: Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place the balls onto a greased baking sheet, leaving space between them for rising.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up.

Step 9: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 10: Egg Wash

In a small bowl, combine the beaten egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush this egg wash over the tops of the rolls to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 11: Bake

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 12: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm with butter or your favorite spread!

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make your Cake Mix Dinner Rolls a bit healthier, consider these options:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduced Sugar Cake Mix: Use a lower sugar version of yellow cake mix to cut down on sweetness.
• Olive Oil: Replace melted butter with olive oil for a healthier fat option.
• Flaxseed Egg: Replace the large egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.

Problems & Prevention

Baking can sometimes lead to unexpected results. Here are some common issues and how to prevent them:

• Dense Rolls: Ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated. If the yeast mixture doesn’t foam, it may be dead.
• Dough Sticking: Use enough flour while kneading and shaping the rolls to prevent sticking.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls in the oven as baking times may vary based on your oven’s performance.
• Uneven Rise: Make sure your dough is in a warm, draft-free environment for rising.

Save It for Later

If you love these Cake Mix Dinner Rolls, you might want to consider making a double batch. They freeze well! Simply place the baked rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw and reheat in the oven for a few minutes until warm.

Cake Mix Dinner Rolls FAQs

Can I use a different flavor cake mix?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional, feel free to experiment with chocolate, strawberry, or any other flavor you enjoy for a fun twist.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) indicates they are fully cooked.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What can I serve with these rolls?

Cake Mix Dinner Rolls are versatile and pair well with soups, stews, salads, or as a side to any main dish. They are also delicious with jam or honey as a sweet treat.

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The Takeaway

Cake Mix Dinner Rolls are a delightful and easy way to enjoy homemade bread without the fuss. With the unique addition of cake mix, these rolls offer a delightful sweetness and a soft, tender texture that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making these scrumptious rolls. Your dinner table will thank you!