Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Savory, soft, and aromatic, with a delicious dose of the caramelized nutty flavor that comes from browning butter, these Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls make a wonderful addition to any fall, winter, or holiday dinner. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home, these rolls are sure to impress your guests and enhance every meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The brown butter adds a rich, nutty taste that elevates the classic dinner roll.
- Aromatic Herbs: Fresh sage and thyme bring a delightful fragrance that’s perfect for autumn meals.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls are great for Thanksgiving, Christmas dinners, or just a comforting weeknight meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance for easy baking later—perfect for busy schedules!
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: Enjoy rolls that are light and fluffy on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Light-colored skillet or saucepan
- Medium heatproof bowl
- Silicone spatula
- Dough hook (if using a stand mixer)
- Large greased bowl for rising
- Baking pan (9×13-inch or two 9-inch round/square pans)
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing and kneading the dough.
- Light-colored skillet: Helps you monitor the browning of butter accurately to achieve that perfect nutty flavor.
- Silicone spatula: Ideal for scraping down sides of bowls without damaging them.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
- 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk or buttermilk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast (1 standard packet)
- 3 Tablespoons (64g) honey, divided
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage leaves, plus an extra pinch for topping
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 3 cups (390g) bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed
- optional: flaky sea salt, for finishing
How to Make Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Set out a medium heatproof bowl because you’ll need it at the end of this step. Place the sliced unsalted butter in a light-colored skillet. Melt over medium heat while stirring constantly. After about 5–7 minutes, it will foam and then start browning. Keep an eye on it until it reaches a light caramel-brown color. Remove from heat immediately and pour into the bowl—make sure to include any brown solids. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Yeast Mixture
In your stand mixer bowl (or a regular large mixing bowl), whisk together the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Loosely cover this mixture and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it’s foamy on top.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the remaining honey, room temperature egg, 6 tablespoons of slightly cooled brown butter (reserve some for brushing), salt, chopped sage, thyme, and 1 cup of bread flour. Use a dough hook or paddle attachment to mix on low speed for about 30 seconds. Scrape down sides as necessary. Add in more flour gradually until you have a workable dough that’s soft but manageable.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Keep the dough in the mixer with a dough hook or knead by hand on a floured surface for about 5 minutes. If it becomes too sticky during kneading, sprinkle flour as needed. The dough should feel soft yet elastic—test by poking it; if it bounces back slowly, it’s ready!
Step 5: First Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or nonstick spray. Place your dough in the bowl and turn to coat all sides in oil. Cover with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1.5–2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 6: Prepare Baking Pans
While waiting for the dough to rise, grease your baking pans—a 9×13-inch pan works well—or use two round/square pans. You can also opt for cast iron skillets if preferred.
With these steps outlined, you’re well on your way to creating delightful Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with flaky sea salt sprinkled on top!
How to Serve Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
These delightful rolls are perfect for any occasion, especially during the colder months. Serving them warm enhances their rich flavor, making them a favorite at the dinner table.
For a Cozy Family Dinner
- Pair with hearty soups like butternut squash or potato leek for a comforting meal.
- Serve alongside roasted meats, allowing guests to savor the rolls with savory gravies and sauces.
At Your Holiday Gatherings
- Offer these rolls as part of your Thanksgiving spread; they complement turkey beautifully.
- Set them out with a selection of cheeses and charcuterie for an elegant appetizer.
With a Fresh Salad
- Enjoy them alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the rolls.
- Add a vinaigrette dressing that contrasts nicely with the buttery flavor.
As a Snack
- Warm up leftover rolls and serve with flavored butters or jams for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Create mini sandwiches using the rolls, filling them with your favorite deli meats and cheeses.
How to Perfect Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Mastering these rolls is easy with just a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dinner rolls turn out perfectly every time.
- Use fresh yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising. Old yeast can lead to dense rolls.
- Watch the butter closely: When browning the butter, stir constantly to achieve that nutty flavor without burning it.
- Knead properly: Knead until the dough bounces back when poked. This ensures proper gluten development for fluffy rolls.
- Control rising temperature: Let your dough rise in a warm spot. A cold environment can slow down yeast activity.
- Don’t rush baking: Bake until golden brown on top. This not only adds color but also enhances flavor through caramelization.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
These dinner rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Rich and buttery mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance against the savory flavors of the rolls.
- Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These crispy sprouts add depth and crunch, complementing the softness of the rolls perfectly.
- Butternut Squash Soup – A warm bowl of soup brings out the earthiness in both the squash and sage flavors in your rolls.
- Maple Glazed Carrots – The sweetness of maple syrup enhances the nuttiness of brown butter while adding vibrant color to your table.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing offers refreshing contrast to warm, fluffy dinner rolls.
- Green Bean Almondine – Sautéed green beans topped with almonds provide crunch and nutrition while pairing well with buttery flavors.
- Stuffed Acorn Squash – A hearty vegetarian option that fills you up while keeping things festive and flavorful.
- Roasted Chicken Thighs – Juicy chicken thighs seasoned well provide protein that complements these aromatic dinner rolls beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can be a delightful experience. However, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
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Overheating the Butter: If you let the butter brown too long, it can burn. Keep stirring and watch for that nutty aroma; remove it from heat as soon as it reaches a light caramel color.
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Incorrect Yeast Activation: Not allowing the yeast to foam can lead to dense rolls. Ensure your milk is warm (about 110°F) and let the mixture sit until bubbly.
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Adding Too Much Flour: It’s easy to add too much flour when kneading. Start with a small amount and only add more if the dough is overly sticky. The dough should remain soft and slightly tacky.
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Skipping the Rise Time: Rushing the rise can lead to dense rolls. Allow the dough to double in size in a warm place, which usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Not Testing for Doneness: Undercooked rolls can be doughy inside. Check that they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
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Neglecting Flavor Boosters: If you skip adding fresh herbs like sage and thyme, you miss out on essential flavors. Make sure to include them for that aromatic touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Freeze rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place rolls on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 10-15 second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, cover and warm the rolls for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit additional salt in the recipe for balance.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size after rising. A good test is pressing your finger into it; if it holds the indentation, it’s ready!
What if I can’t find fresh sage?
You can substitute dried sage, but use less—about one-third of the amount of fresh herbs required.
Can I make these dinner rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not just delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. Their rich flavor combined with soft texture makes them perfect for cozy dinners or holiday feasts. Feel free to customize with different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences!
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warm, savory goodness of Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls. Perfectly soft and aromatic, these rolls feature a delightful nuttiness from browning the butter, making them an ideal companion for fall and winter meals. Enhanced with fresh sage and thyme, they offer a comforting flavor that elevates any dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or enjoying a cozy family meal, these rolls are bound to impress your guests and become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup whole milk or buttermilk
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 3 cups bread flour
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a light-colored skillet over medium heat until it turns light caramel brown. Transfer to a bowl and let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon honey. Let sit until foamy.
- Combine remaining honey, egg, cooled brown butter, salt, herbs, and flour into the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until elastic. Place in a greased bowl to rise until doubled in size (about 1.5–2 hours).
- Shape into rolls and place in greased baking pans. Allow to rise again before baking at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (50g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
