Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. Parker House Dinner Rolls, a classic American recipe, have been a staple on dinner tables for over a century. Named after the iconic Parker House Hotel in Boston, where they were first created, these rolls are known for their soft, buttery texture and slightly sweet flavor. The recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing joy and satisfaction to countless families and gatherings.

The origin of Parker House Dinner Rolls can be traced back to the mid-19th century when the Parker House Hotel became a culinary landmark in Boston, Massachusetts. The hotel’s reputation for exceptional hospitality and exquisite cuisine quickly spread, attracting guests from all walks of life. Among the hotel’s signature dishes, the Parker House Dinner Rolls stood out as a true culinary masterpiece.

Legend has it that a frustrated baker, attempting to create a unique roll recipe, accidentally brushed butter onto the dough before folding it. The result was a roll with a golden crust and a tender, buttery interior. The innovative technique was embraced, and the Parker House Dinner Rolls were born.

These rolls gained widespread popularity, becoming synonymous with comfort and indulgence. Over time, the recipe was perfected, and variations emerged, each with its own unique touch. Today, Parker House Dinner Rolls continue to grace tables around the world, bringing warmth and delight to every bite.

PREP: 1 HOUR + RISING

BAKE: 10 MIN

MAKES: 3 DOZEN

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup warm water
• 2 large eggs

INSTRUCTIONS 

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, incorporate the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture of the rolls.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and eggs. Whisk the mixture until the eggs are fully incorporated.
4. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet mixture into the well. Begin mixing the dough, gradually incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Continue mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary, but be cautious not to add too much, as it can result in dense rolls.
6. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
7. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into equal-sized portions, shaping each portion into a smooth ball. The size of the rolls can vary according to personal preference, but aim for approximately 2-inch diameter balls.
8. Place the shaped rolls in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them for expansion. Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the rolls are undergoing their final rise.
10. Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning.
11. Remove the rolls from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter for a beautiful sheen and added flavor. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
12. Serve the warm and fragrant Parker House Dinner Rolls alongside your favorite meals or enjoy them on their own. They are perfect for sopping up sauces, accompanying soups, or simply savoring their buttery goodness.

NOTES:

• These rolls are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are baked. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze the rolls for longer storage by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw the rolls if frozen, and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes until they are heated through.
• Get ready to create a memorable dining experience with the heavenly aroma and irresistible taste of homemade Parker House Dinner Rolls. These soft, buttery delights will captivate your senses and leave your loved ones craving for more.