These Pull Apart Sourdough Dinner Rolls are warm, soft, and oh-so-yummy! Perfectly golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they make a great addition to any meal.
Honestly, there’s something magical about pulling apart a fresh roll and watching the steam rise. I can’t resist eating a few right out of the oven! 🥖💖 Perfect for sharing—or not!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter: An active and bubbly starter is essential for these rolls to rise properly. If you don’t have sourdough starter, try using a store-bought one or replace it with an equal amount of yogurt or buttermilk for a different flavor.
All-purpose Flour: This recipe works great with all-purpose flour, but you can use bread flour for a chewier texture. Whole wheat flour is another option, though it may yield denser rolls.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended, but you can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option. Coconut oil also works, but adjust the quantity as it has a stronger flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheese, feel free to skip it completely. Nutritional yeast offers a cheese-like flavor if you’re looking for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Dough Rises Well?
The rising process is crucial for fluffy rolls. To help your dough rise effectively, make sure to use fresh yeast and warm milk (not hot!).
- For the first rise, place the bowl in a warm spot, like an oven with the light on.
- Cover the bowl with a towel to keep it warm and moist.
- When shaping the rolls, be gentle to keep all the air bubbles in.
- For the second rise, the dough should look puffy and soft before baking.
How to Make Pull Apart Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup (240g) sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
- 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk (around 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 large egg
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus around 3-4 hours for rising and about 25 minutes for baking. So in total, you’re looking at about 4 hours of time, but most of it is just waiting for the dough to rise. Perfect for a lazy afternoon at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir lightly and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step activates the yeast, making sure your rolls will rise beautifully!
2. Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, melted butter, and egg. Add the foamy yeast mixture and mix everything well until combined.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir using a wooden spoon or dough hook until you have a sticky dough. It’s okay if it’s a little messy at this stage!
4. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it by hand for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 6-7 minutes.
5. First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours until it has doubled in size. Patience is key here!
6. Shape the Rolls:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, shaping each piece into a neat ball.
7. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking dish. Place your dough balls close together in the dish, almost touching. This will help them rise together for that pull-apart effect!
8. Second Rise:
Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and let the dough balls rise again for about 45-60 minutes until they are puffy and touching.
9. Prepare Topping (Optional):
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese if using. This will create a delicious topping for your rolls!
10. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with the butter-garlic mixture or just plain melted butter. Bake the rolls for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown on top.
11. Cool and Serve:
Let the rolls cool slightly for a few minutes before pulling them apart and serving warm. Enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade sourdough rolls!
These Pull Apart Sourdough Dinner Rolls are perfect for any meal, making your dining experience that much cozier. Enjoy the delightful aroma and the fluffy, soft texture—happy baking!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but note that it might yield denser rolls. You may want to combine it with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture, starting with about 50% whole wheat and 50% all-purpose flour.
How Do I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, just warm them in the oven or microwave.
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast or a cold environment. Make sure to use fresh yeast and check that your rising spot is warm enough—try placing the bowl in a slightly warmed oven or near a warm stove!
Can I Make These Rolls Vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The rolls will still turn out delicious!