Irresistible Sea Salt Rosemary Dinner Rolls Recipe for Perfection

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Author: Souzan
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There’s something utterly charming about the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through a home. It has this magical way of bringing family together, evoking memories of cozy dinners and shared laughter. The other day, while savoring a cup of chamomile tea on a rainy afternoon, I reminisced about a family gathering where my aunt brought her famous rosemary dinner rolls. Just one bite of those fluffy, warm beauties transported us all; they were soft and delicate, sprinkled generously with sea salt and a hint of rosemary that perfectly complemented our homemade pasta. Inspired by that memory, I decided to create my own version of her delightful rolls, and let me tell you, these Sea Salt Rosemary Dinner Rolls are nothing short of perfection!

Sea Salt Rosemary Dinner Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Imagine cracking open a warm dinner roll, the steam rising up in gentle tendrils, while you spread a generous pat of butter across its surface. If that doesn’t sound enticing, I don’t know what does! These rolls are not just your average bread; they’re an invitation to comfort. With their fluffy texture and the aromatic blend of rosemary, they bring a little slice of restaurant magic into your home kitchen. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a gathering with friends, these rolls add a touch of elegance without demanding too much of your time in the kitchen (always a plus!). You can whip them up on busy weeknights or lazy Sundays—whatever suits your fancy. And let’s be honest, there’s something profoundly satisfying about serving homemade bread that makes your heart swell just a bit. Trust me, these rolls deserve a spot on your dining table!

What It Tastes Like

The first bite is pure bliss—soft and pillowy with a crust that’s just slightly crunchy, giving that perfect contrast in texture. As you chew, the delectable infusion of rosemary comes alive, lifting your taste buds and inviting your senses to dance. The sea salt offers a gentle pop, a savory touch that enhances the whole experience without overshadowing the soft notes of the bread. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket after a long day; these rolls are a warm embrace for your belly! Perfectly paired with a bowl of soup, served alongside your favorite pasta, or enjoyed all on their own, they are reminiscent of rustic meals shared among family, which makes them an instant favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour: This is your main structure—light and fluffy, essential for achieving that pillow-like texture.
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: The little magic workers that help your rolls rise beautifully.
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F): A cozy bath for your yeast, helping it activate and grow.
  • 2 tablespoons sugar: Just the right amount to nourish your yeast and add a hint of sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons salt: For flavor enhancement! If you like a little extra zing, you can even add a touch more.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a lovely richness and also keeps the rolls tender.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped): This is where the aromatic magic begins. If using dried, reduce to 1 tablespoon.
  • Sea salt (for sprinkling): To finish your rolls with a touch of savory goodness.

Optional Additions: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding garlic powder for a hint of savoriness or even mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese for a delightful twist.

Special Garnishes: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before they go into the oven adds an irresistible touch!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s roll up those sleeves and get started! Here’s how to make these wonderful Sea Salt Rosemary Dinner Rolls:

  1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the warm water along with the sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy (this means your yeast is happy—yay!).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the olive oil.
  3. Once your yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the well in the flour mixture. Add the chopped rosemary.
  4. Mix together using a wooden spoon or your hands (get in there). Work it until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic happens! Aim for a smooth and elastic dough.
  6. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  7. Once risen, punch the dough down to release the air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
  8. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between them.
  9. Cover the rolls with a cloth and allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they puff up beautifully.
  10. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Just before baking, sprinkle the tops with sea salt.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and they sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  12. Transfer the rolls to a wire rack and brush them with melted butter if you wish, then get ready to dig in!

Recipe Variations

These rolls are a great base, and you can easily mix things up to suit your palate.

  • Cheesy Rosemary Rolls: Add a cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the dough for a cheesy twist.
  • Herb Medley: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage instead of rosemary, or even a mix!
  • Sweet Variation: Try replacing some of the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor, and add a teaspoon of honey to the dough for a subtle sweetness.

Serving & Storage Tips

Once you’ve made these rolls, they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve them warm with butter, or alongside your favorite soups and stews. If you have leftovers (which is rare, but happens), you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a warm oven (around 350°F) for a few minutes. And for those creative leftovers, consider using them to make mini sandwiches or croutons for a salad—seriously, the possibilities are endless!

Helpful Tips

Everyone has their mishaps in the kitchen—some humorous, some slightly mortifying. Here are a few tips to avoid common mistakes:

  • Don’t skip the first yeast proofing; it’s vital. If your yeast doesn’t froth, toss it out and start with fresh yeast.
  • Knead enough! If the dough feels sticky and not elastic, you might not have kneaded it long enough.
  • When rising, cover the dough; it should be warm but not in direct sunlight to avoid overheating.
  • Patience is key! These rolls need time to rise to get that perfect texture—don’t rush the process.

Special Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl: A good mixing bowl is essential for blending your ingredients. Make sure it’s big enough for the dough to rise!
  • Measuring Cups/Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in bread-making, so don’t skip on these.
  • Kitchen Towel: A damp kitchen towel is great for covering the dough while it rises; it keeps the moisture in!
  • Baking Sheet or Dish: Choose a good quality baking dish to ensure even heat distribution while baking.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that the texture will be a bit denser. You might want to combine it with some all-purpose flour for a lighter roll.

How can I tell if my yeast is still good?

Healthy yeast should froth up and become bubbly when mixed with warm water and sugar. If it doesn’t, it’s probably time to get new yeast.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough and refrigerate it after the first rise—just let it come to room temperature before the second rise and shaping.

What’s the best way to reheat the rolls?

The oven is your friend! Pop them in at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to warm them up. Alternatively, a microwave works in a pinch, but they won’t have that crisp crust.

Conclusion

The warmth of these Sea Salt Rosemary Dinner Rolls lights up any gathering, making even the simplest meal feel special. I cherish the happiness they bring and the shared moments around the dinner table that they symbolize. Whether it’s a festive occasion or just a casual family dinner, these rolls always earn a spot. I can’t wait for you to try them! When you do, let me know how they turned out or share any delicious variations you come up with. Happy baking, my friend!

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Sea Salt Rosemary Dinner Rolls

Irresistible Sea Salt Rosemary Dinner Rolls Recipe for Perfection


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  • Author: souzanfood
  • Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls 1x

Description

Delight in these sea salt rosemary rolls perfect for any dinner A simple recipe that guarantees fluffy flavorful bread every time


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped)
  • Sea salt (for sprinkling)

  • Instructions

  • In a small bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the warm water along with the sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the olive oil.
  • Once your yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the well in the flour mixture. Add the chopped rosemary.
  • Mix together using a wooden spoon or your hands to form a shaggy dough.
  • Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  • Once risen, punch the dough down and divide it into 12 equal pieces, shaping each piece into a ball.
  • Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
  • Cover the rolls with a cloth and allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Just before baking, sprinkle the tops with sea salt.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and they sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  • Transfer the rolls to a wire rack and brush them with melted butter if desired.
    • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
    • Cook Time: 25 minutes
    • Category: Side Dish
    • Cuisine: American

    Nutrition

    • Calories: 150 calories
    • Sugar: 1 gram
    • Fat: 3 grams
    • Saturated Fat: 3 grams
    • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
    • Fiber: 1 gram
    • Protein: 4 grams
    Hi there, I’m Souzan!

    I wanted to create a space where food feels approachable and joyful. Whether you’re here to discover a new family favorite, explore creative twists on classics, or simply find inspiration for everyday meals, this blog is for you.

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