These light and fluffy potato rolls have a deliciously soft texture with a hint of sweetness. Made with mashed potatoes, they stay moist and tender, making them perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or simply served warm with butter. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to impress!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
• 1 1/3 cups warm water (110° to 115°), divided
• 1 cup warm mashed potatoes (without added milk and butter)
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup shortening
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 6 to 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Directions

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in 2/3 cup of warm water.
2. Mix Dough: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, sugar, shortening, eggs, salt, remaining water, yeast mixture, and 2 cups of flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
3. First Rise: Do not knead the dough. Shape it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1 hour).
4. Shape Rolls: Punch down dough and divide into thirds. Shape each portion into 15 balls and place in greased 9-inch round baking pans. Cover and let rise again until doubled (about 30 minutes).
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans and cool on wire racks. Serve warm.

Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 106
• Total Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 8mg
• Sodium: 136mg
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Sugar: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g

The Secret Ingredient: Mashed Potatoes

The key ingredient that sets these rolls apart is mashed potatoes. Not only do they provide moisture and a delicate sweetness, but they also help create a beautifully tender crumb. The starch in potatoes retains moisture, preventing the rolls from drying out, even after a couple of days.

For the best results, use plain mashed potatoes with no added milk or butter. This keeps the dough from becoming too heavy while still adding the perfect texture. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, these rolls are a great way to repurpose them into something new and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Potato Roll Recipe

There are many reasons why homemade potato rolls should become a staple in your baking routine:

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the mashed potatoes, these rolls are lighter and softer than traditional bread rolls.
• Naturally Moist: Unlike other bread recipes that dry out quickly, potato rolls stay fresh and tender for days.
• Slightly Sweet Flavor: The touch of sugar adds a subtle sweetness, making them perfect for both savory and sweet pairings.
• Versatile Uses: These rolls can be enjoyed on their own, as burger buns, or even as dinner rolls for a holiday meal.
• Great for Special Occasions: Whether for family dinners, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser.

The Science Behind Soft and Tender Potato Rolls

The reason potato rolls have such a delicate and airy texture comes down to baking science. Here’s how it works:

• Potato Starch Retains Moisture: The natural starches in potatoes help absorb and hold onto moisture, making the rolls soft and less prone to drying out.
• Lower Gluten Formation: Because potatoes replace some of the flour, less gluten develops, resulting in a more tender roll.
• Sugar Feeds the Yeast: The added sugar enhances fermentation, helping the dough rise beautifully while also adding a slight sweetness.

How to Get Perfectly Fluffy Potato Rolls Every Time

Even though this recipe is simple, a few key techniques will ensure the best results:

• Use Warm Water to Activate the Yeast: Yeast thrives at 110° to 115°F, so make sure your water is at the right temperature for proper activation. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
• Don’t Knead the Dough Too Much: Unlike traditional bread dough, potato dough is softer and more delicate. Over-kneading can make the rolls dense instead of fluffy.
• Allow Enough Time for the Dough to Rise: Letting the dough rise properly is crucial for achieving a light and airy texture. If rushed, the rolls may turn out too dense.
• Shape the Rolls Evenly: When dividing the dough, make sure each roll is similar in size so they bake evenly and rise consistently.

Ways to Customize Your Potato Rolls

One of the best things about homemade potato rolls is that they can be easily customized to suit different flavors and occasions.

1. Add Herbs and Cheese for a Savory Twist

For a more savory version, try mixing in:

• Chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an herby flavor.
• Shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère cheese for extra richness.
• Minced garlic or onion powder for an aromatic touch.

2. Make Them Sweeter for a Breakfast Roll

If you prefer a sweeter roll, increase the sugar slightly and add:

• A sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg for warmth.
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
• Raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.

3. Use Whole Wheat Flour for a Healthier Option

For a more nutritious version, substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds more fiber while still keeping the rolls soft and fluffy.

Serving Ideas for Potato Rolls

Potato rolls are incredibly versatile, making them a great accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• With Butter and Honey: A classic and simple way to enjoy them warm from the oven.
• As Burger or Sandwich Buns: The soft, slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with grilled meats, pulled pork, or fried chicken.
• Alongside Soups and Stews: These rolls are great for dipping into broths, chowders, or creamy soups.
• For Breakfast: Slice and toast them, then serve with jam, nut butter, or scrambled eggs.
• As Holiday Dinner Rolls: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter feasts.

How to Store and Freeze Potato Rolls

Since potato rolls stay fresh longer than regular rolls, they’re great for meal prep and make-ahead baking.

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Keep them fresh for up to a week, but let them warm up before serving to restore their softness.
• Freezing Instructions: Wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Bread Recipe for Any Baker

Potato rolls are a true bakery-style bread that’s easy to make at home. Their soft, fluffy texture, mild sweetness, and incredible versatility make them a staple recipe for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Whether you’re serving them as dinner rolls, making sandwiches, or using them for breakfast, these rolls will quickly become a family favorite. The addition of mashed potatoes makes them unique, keeping them moist, tender, and full of flavor for days.