There’s a little magic that happens as you knead dough, and the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread fills your kitchen. It’s such a comforting moment, and with this Buttery Parker House Rolls recipe, you’ll create a heavenly dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to savor. A chance encounter with a neighbor’s warm, fluffy rolls sparked my desire to master this classic favorite, blending simple ingredients like all-purpose flour and buttery goodness into something extraordinary.

Perfectly golden and pillowy soft, these rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply a quiet evening at home. Picture this: you gather around the table, and with the first tear, warm steam escapes, revealing a tender interior that begs for a generous swipe of butter. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning your culinary journey, these rolls promise to elevate your meal without overwhelming your schedule. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why are Buttery Parker House Rolls irresistible?

Warm, Fluffy Rolls: These rolls are the epitome of comfort food, marrying soft dough with melt-in-your-mouth buttery goodness.

Easy Recipe: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that crafting these rolls is a breeze, regardless of your skill level.

Versatile Delight: Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday feasts, they easily complement any meal.

Lovely Aroma: The smell of freshly baked rolls fills your home with warmth, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Family Favorite: Every bite brings smiles and requests for more, making these rolls a guaranteed hit on your dinner table.

Get ready to impress everyone with your baking skills and experience the joy of homemade goodness that’s simply unforgettable!

Buttery Parker House Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – Essential for structure; you may need extra for dusting.
• 3/4 cup instant mashed potato flakes – Adds moisture and makes the rolls incredibly soft.
• 1 cup whole milk – For rich flavor; warm it slightly to help activate the yeast.
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter – Divided for dough and serving, it gives that sweet buttery flavor.
• 1 (1/4-ounce) packet active dry yeast – This helps the rolls rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar – Balances the flavors and helps the yeast work its magic.
• 1 large egg – Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough structure.
• 1 teaspoon vegetable or canola oil – Aids in keeping the dough moist while rising.

For Topping
• Flaky salt – A sprinkle on top before baking gives a delightful contrast to the buttery rolls.

This simple and delightful recipe for Buttery Parker House Rolls will sweep you off your feet and fill your home with heavenly aromas—you’ll never want to go back to fast food again!

How to Make Buttery Parker House Rolls

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the instant mashed potato flakes with hot milk. Let it cool slightly to allow flavors to meld. This will ensure the rolls are rich and tender!
Activate Yeast: In a separate bowl, add warm water, yeast, and sugar. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until frothy, signaling that the yeast is ready for action.
Mix the Dough: Stir the cooled potato mixture, melted butter, egg, salt, and half of the flour into the yeast mixture. Combine until well blended, creating a creamy texture.
Incorporate Remaining Flour: Gradually add the rest of the flour to the mixture, stirring until the dough begins to come together. Look for a slight tacky feel at this stage.
Knead Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it transforms into a smooth and elastic ball. You want it to feel soft yet firm.
First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour. Patience is key!
Shape Rolls: After rising, punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan, giving it a cozy space to grow.
Second Rise: Cover again and let it rise until doubled, roughly 30-45 minutes. Enjoy the anticipation as your rolls start to rise!
Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your rolls will bake evenly and beautifully golden.
Bake to Perfection: Pop the loaf in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s golden brown on top. Let that glorious aroma waft through your home!
Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. This will keep them soft and perfect for that slather of butter.

Optional: Serve warm with a sprinkle of flaky salt on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Buttery Parker House Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1 through 6. After kneading, cover the dough and refrigerate it to slow the rising process while preserving flavor and texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the dough out of the fridge, shape it into a loaf, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes before baking. This way, you’ll have fresh, warm rolls ready for your meal without the last-minute rush, allowing you to enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth experience any busy weeknight!

How to Store and Freeze Buttery Parker House Rolls

Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but a sealed container keeps them soft.

Fridge: If you plan to keep them longer, store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze individual rolls wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating: To bring back that fresh-baked flavor, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy your Buttery Parker House Rolls warm with extra butter!

Buttery Parker House Rolls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize these rolls to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs!

Garlic Herb: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic and a teaspoon of dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme) to the dough for aromatic flavor. The blend of garlic and herbs enhances the overall taste, making it irresistible!
Cheesy Delight: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite) to the dough to create a cheesy version that melts beautifully. Imagine biting into a warm roll and finding a gooey, cheesy surprise inside!
Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture and added fiber. The nutty flavor balances perfectly with the buttery goodness of the rolls.
Sweet Rolls: For a hint of sweetness, add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup into the dough. This not only makes them sweet but creates a gorgeous golden crust too!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the dough for a surprising heat that pairs nicely with the buttery flavor. Just the right amount of spice can elevate these rolls to a completely new level!
Dairy-Free: Replace the whole milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk and use vegan butter to cater to dairy-sensitive folks. You’ll still get that lovely texture while accommodating different dietary needs.
Herbed Butter Topping: Before serving, brush the rolls with melted butter mixed with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra layer of flavor. This will transform the classic butter topping into something fancy and refreshing!
Savory Meat Addition: Add crumbled cooked bacon or diced ham into the dough for a roll packed with protein and savory flavor. These rolls will become a new breakfast favorite, stuffed with enthusiasm!

Feel free to experiment, and don’t hesitate to share your unique twists on these delicious Buttery Parker House Rolls!

What to Serve with Potato Bread?

Transform your meal into a cozy feast by adding delightful sides that elevate the warmth of homemade bread.

Creamy Broccoli Soup: This rich, velvety soup pairs perfectly with the fluffy texture of potato bread, allowing for delightful dipping. The earthy flavors of broccoli create a comforting harmony.
Herbed Butter: A simple blend of fresh herbs and softened butter adds a fragrant burst to each slice. The buttery richness enhances the moistness of the bread in every bite.
Slow-Roasted Garlic and Herb Chicken: The savory, tender chicken complements the subtle flavors of potato bread, creating a satisfying contrast in texture. It’s a match made in dinner heaven!
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and crunchy croutons bring freshness that balances the richness of the potato bread. Topped with creamy Caesar dressing, it’s a delightful contrast.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweet glaze of honey and the tender bite of cooked carrots brings a delightful pop of flavor, perfectly complementing the savory notes of the bread.
Spiced Apple Chutney: Adding a sweet and tangy chutney introduces a touch of warmth and depth, making your potato bread an even more exciting experience.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Sip on a glass of bubbly cider for a refreshing counterpart. The sweetness and carbonation brighten your meal beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the bread.

Let your potato bread shine as the star of the dinner table with these delicious pairings that promise smiles and satisfied appetites!

Expert Tips for Buttery Parker House Rolls

Activate Yeast Properly: Use warm water (110°F) to wake up the yeast. Too hot will kill it; too cold won’t activate it, leading to flat rolls.
Don’t Over-Knead: Aim for 8-10 minutes of kneading. Overworking the dough can lead to tough rolls; you want a soft, elastic texture.
Be Patient: Allow enough time for both rises. Rushing this step usually results in dense rolls—patience yields fluffy, airy ones!
Cover While Rising: Keep your dough covered with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out during rising.
Temperature Matters: Ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F for even baking. An unheated oven can lead to uneven rolls that don’t cook properly.

These tips will guide you to create perfectly buttery Parker House Rolls every time!

Buttery Parker House Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for the mashed potato flakes?
For the best flavor and texture, opt for variety brands of instant mashed potato flakes. They often have a better mouthfeel than generic versions. Look for ones with minimal added ingredients to keep your rolls as pure and delightful as possible.

How should I store leftover Parker House rolls?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, transfer them to the fridge where they can stay fresh for up to 5 days. Be sure to wrap them tightly to maintain their softness!

Can I freeze Buttery Parker House Rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each roll in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat straight from the freezer. If reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm.

Why did my rolls not rise properly?
If your rolls didn’t rise, it could be due to the yeast not activating. Ensure your water is the right temperature (around 110°F) when mixing with the yeast and sugar. If the mixture doesn’t foam after 5-10 minutes, the yeast may be dead. Ensure to use fresh yeast as well.

Are Parker House rolls safe for pets?
No, these rolls contain ingredients like butter and salt that can be harmful to pets in larger quantities. While an occasional small bite may not harm them, it’s best to keep your Buttery Parker House Rolls to yourself!

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to also check that your instant mashed potato flakes are certified gluten-free. Follow the same recipe steps, and you’ll have gluten-free rolls that are just as delightful!