Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the perfect homemade bread to warm your kitchen and delight your family, then you must try this Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe. These rolls are soft and tender inside with a slightly chewy texture and a hint of sweet molasses flavor that pairs beautifully with the hearty oats on top. Whether you’re baking for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these rolls will quickly become your go-to recipe, impressing everyone with their rustic charm and mouthwatering taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these rolls is surprisingly simple because each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect taste, texture, and color. From the rich molasses that adds depth to the sweet yet earthy oats, every item is essential.

• Water (1 cup, warmed to 110°F/43°C): Activates the yeast and creates the perfect environment for dough rising.
• Whole milk (1/3 cup, warmed to 110°F/43°C): Adds richness and tenderness to the rolls.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, softened): Brings softness and moisture.
• Molasses (3 tablespoons): Gives the rolls a deep, rich sweetness and that classic molasses flavor—choose Grandma’s brand for best results.
• Egg white beaten with water (for egg wash): Creates a shiny, golden crust with just the right amount of sheen.
• Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast (1 tablespoon): Powers the rising process efficiently.
• Light or dark brown sugar (3 tablespoons, divided): Enhances sweetness and contributes to the tender crumb.
• Old-fashioned whole rolled oats (1 cup plus more for topping): Adds texture and a nutty, wholesome character.
• Bread flour (3 and 1/2 cups, spooned & leveled): Provides structure and chewiness needed for great rolls.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and boosts flavor.

How to Make Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by warming your water and milk to about 110°F. In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the warm water, milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, signaling that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. If you don’t have a stand mixer, using a large bowl and a sturdy wooden spoon works just as well.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Now add the remaining 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, molasses, softened butter, oats, salt, and 1 cup of bread flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed for about a minute to combine everything. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the remaining 2 and 1/2 cups of flour. Increase the speed to medium and beat until the dough comes together and pulls away from the bowl sides, about 2 minutes. If the dough feels too wet, sprinkle in more flour a tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for 5 to 8 minutes using your stand mixer or by hand on a lightly floured surface. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky—think of a slightly damp sponge. You’ll know it’s ready when you lightly press a finger into the dough and it slowly bounces back. This step builds the gluten that gives your rolls their wonderful texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray and place your dough inside, turning it so every side gets coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size. This is when the yeast is doing its work, transforming your dough into fluffy goodness.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Pan

While the dough is rising, prepare your baking vessel. Grease a 9×13-inch pan or two 9-inch pans, or line them with parchment paper. A cast-iron skillet or baking sheet lined with parchment can also do the trick if you want a different shape or rustic look.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 15 equal pieces, about 68 to 70 grams each. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by stretching the top and pinching the bottom closed. Arrange these little balls side by side in your prepared pan—getting that perfect spacing is key for evenly baked, pull-apart rolls.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let them rise again until puffy and nearly doubled in size, roughly 30 to 60 minutes. This final rise ensures your rolls bake up soft and airy.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Move your oven rack to a lower position to prevent the tops from burning, then preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). This setting will gently bake the rolls to a beautiful golden brown.

Step 9: Bake the Rolls

Brush the tops with the egg white wash and sprinkle extra oats on each roll for that inviting rustic appeal. Bake for 26 to 27 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through to ensure even browning. If the rolls start to get too dark, cover them loosely with foil. The rolls are done when their internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) and they’re glowing golden.

Step 10: Cool and Store

Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before digging in. This lets the crumb set perfectly. If you have leftovers, store them tightly covered at room temperature for 2 to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.

How to Serve Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Keep it simple and classic by brushing the rolls again with melted butter right after baking for an extra glossy finish and subtle richness. You can also sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or add a light dusting of cinnamon sugar to enhance the warmth of the molasses flavor.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine alongside hearty soups like butternut squash or creamy tomato bisque. They also make a wonderful companion to roast chicken, glazed ham, or a vibrant autumn salad. Their slightly sweet and wholesome taste balances savory mains beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe into sliders by slicing them in half and filling with pulled pork or roasted veggies. Or serve as a side for a rustic bread basket with an assortment of flavored butters—think honey cinnamon or garlic herb—for dipping and spreading.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover rolls tightly in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for 2 to 3 days, making them perfect for morning toast or an afternoon snack.

Freezing

To freeze, first cool your rolls completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delicious texture or flavor.

Reheating

Reheat rolls by wrapping them in foil and warming in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. For a quick microwave fix, wrap a roll in a damp paper towel and heat for 15 to 20 seconds. Both methods revive that fresh-baked softness you love.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Quick oats have a finer texture and won’t provide the same rustic chewiness or lovely topping effect. For best texture and appearance, stick with old-fashioned whole rolled oats.

Is there a substitute for molasses in this recipe?

You could use honey or maple syrup, but molasses provides a unique depth and slight bitterness that’s integral to the flavor profile of these rolls. Regular molasses, not blackstrap, ensures a balanced sweetness.

Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead by hand. Just be prepared to spend a little more time kneading on a lightly floured surface to develop that beautiful gluten structure.

Why do the rolls need two rises?

The first rise develops the dough’s flavor and structure, while the second rise puffs the shaped rolls for a light, airy texture. Skipping either can result in dense or unevenly baked bread.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C). They should be a gorgeous golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your home, and this Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe delivers that experience with every batch. Soft, slightly sweet, and utterly irresistible, these rolls will quickly win their place on your favorite recipes list. Give them a try and watch how they bring warmth and joy to every meal!

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