Description
Whole Wheat Honey Rolls are soft, slightly sweet rolls made with a mixture of whole wheat flour and honey. The dough is enhanced with butter and yeast, giving the rolls a light and airy texture, even with the use of 100% whole wheat flour. The honey adds a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the slightly nutty flavor of the whole wheat flour. These rolls are perfect for serving alongside dinner or as a standalone snack. With a simple list of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is both beginner-friendly and perfect for seasoned bakers looking to add a healthy twist to their rolls.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
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3 cups (360g) whole wheat flour – Whole wheat flour is the base of these rolls, providing a nutty flavor and dense texture. For a lighter roll, you can substitute half of the whole wheat flour with bread flour.
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2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast – Yeast helps the dough rise, creating fluffy, soft rolls.
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1 tsp salt – Salt balances the sweetness of the honey and enhances the flavor.
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¼ cup (32g) non-fat dry milk powder – This is optional but recommended for tenderness. Milk powder adds a soft crumb and a richer flavor to the rolls.
Wet Ingredients
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1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F/43°C) – Warm water activates the yeast, allowing it to do its job in the dough.
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¼ cup (85g) honey – Honey adds moisture, natural sweetness, and aids in yeast activation for a better rise.
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3 tbsp (43g) unsalted butter, melted – Butter gives the rolls a rich, soft texture and flavor. You can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
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1 large egg (optional) – The egg adds richness to the rolls and helps with binding the dough together.
For Finishing
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1 tbsp melted butter – For brushing on top after baking, giving the rolls a glossy finish.
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Flaky sea salt or sesame seeds (optional) – A light sprinkle of sea salt or sesame seeds on top adds texture and an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic in the dough.
In a large bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, salt, and milk powder. Pour in the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg (if using). Stir the ingredients until they come together to form a shaggy dough.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. If the dough is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to help bring it together. The goal is to achieve a smooth and elastic dough.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours. The dough should double in size. This step is crucial for achieving light and fluffy rolls.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (approximately 65g each). Roll each piece into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch pan or on a baking sheet.
Cover the shaped rolls with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes. They should puff up during this time.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Once out of the oven, brush the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
These Whole Wheat Honey Rolls are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional rolls. Feel free to customize them by adding seeds like sunflower or flaxseed for extra crunch and nutrition. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days for a soft, wholesome treat!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breads
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Whole Wheat Honey Rolls Recipe