Large-Batch Refrigerator Rolls

📜 Collection: UK3 | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Bread A versatile, large-batch recipe for soft yeasted rolls. The dough can be refrigerated for up to two weeks, allowing you to bake fresh hot rolls whenever you like.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
30 mins15 mins2 hours5-6 dozen rolls

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Very large mixing bowl
  • Greased baking sheet
  • Greased bowl

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
1 qt (4 Cups)MilkNone
1 CupCriscoSolid vegetable shortening
1 CupSugarNone
1 tspSaltNone
2 pkgs (4 ½ tsp)YeastActive dry yeast
9 - 10 CupsFlourAll-purpose recommended, divided
1 tspBaking PowderNone
½ tspBaking SodaNone

Instructions

Step 1: Scald and Cool

  1. In a large saucepan, combine the 1 qt (4 Cups) milk, 1 cup Crisco, 1 cup sugar, and 1 tsp salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
  2. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool until it is lukewarm (105-115°F).

Step 2: Make the Sponge

  1. Pour the lukewarm liquid into a very large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the 2 pkgs (4 ½ tsp) yeast on top and let it dissolve for a few minutes.
  2. Add 4-5 cups flour to the bowl and beat well until you have a smooth batter (this is the “sponge”).
  3. Cover the bowl and let the sponge rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).

Step 3: Form the Dough

  1. Stir the sponge down. Add the 1 tsp baking powder and ½ tsp baking soda, then gradually mix in the remaining 4-5 cups flour to form a soft dough.
  2. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Bake or Refrigerate

  1. To bake immediately, shape the dough into rolls, place them on a greased baking sheet, and let them rise for about 30 minutes. Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
  2. To refrigerate, place the kneaded dough in a large, greased bowl, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. When ready to bake, pinch off dough, shape into rolls, let rise for 30-60 minutes, and bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes until golden brown.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: The kneaded dough can be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, ready to be shaped and baked in small batches as desired.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card