Parker House Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about Parker House Rolls! Their texture is soft and pillowy, with just the right amount of buttery flavor. The folding technique gives these rolls their signature shape, while the rich butter adds a touch of indulgence. They are versatile enough for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to everyday dinners. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are perfect for sandwiches. You won’t be able to stop at just one!

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ¼ cup whole milk (110°F)

• 3 teaspoons active dry yeast

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided

• 1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt

• 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk, room temperature

• 3 ½ to 4 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, for brushing on dough, divided

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine the yeast, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and warm milk. Stir gently and let sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy.

2. Mix the Dough: Add 2 ½ cups of flour, salt, butter, remaining sugar, egg, and egg yolk. Attach the paddle attachment on your stand mixer, turn the mixer to the lowest speed, and mix until the ingredients are incorporated. Scrape down the sides as necessary. Increase the speed to medium-low and mix for 2 minutes.

3. Form the Dough: Change the mixer attachment to a dough hook. Add ½ cup of flour and mix at the lowest speed, increasing to medium-low as the flour is incorporated. Mix for an additional 2 minutes. Add another ½ cup of flour and repeat the process, mixing at medium speed for 2 more minutes until a dough ball forms. The dough should be sticky but pulling away from the sides of the bowl.

4. Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let rise for 45 to 90 minutes until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently. Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a rectangle (approximately 8” x 12”). Brush each rectangle with 2 tablespoons of softened butter, then fold the dough lengthwise, leaving about a ½-inch gap. Cut each rectangle into 4 pieces, creating 8 rolls.

6. Arrange in Pan: Turn the rolls over and place them, folded side down, in a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Repeat with the remaining dough to form 16 rolls in total.

7. Second Rise: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a towel and let the rolls rise for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until puffy.

8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the cover from the rolls and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

9. Finish: Remove the rolls from the oven and brush with the remaining 3 tablespoons of softened butter. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 rolls

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Rise Time: 2 hours (combined for both rises)

Variations

• Garlic Butter Parker House Rolls: Add minced garlic to the softened butter for a garlicky twist. Brush the garlic butter on top of the rolls just before baking.

• Cheese-Stuffed Rolls: After rolling out the dough, add a layer of shredded cheese, then fold and shape as usual for cheesy Parker House rolls.

• Herb-Infused Rolls: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the dough for a fragrant and flavorful variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat in the oven.

• Reheating: Reheat rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. If frozen, thaw at room temperature before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use rapid rise yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can swap in rapid rise yeast. You’ll also find that the rise times are shorter, and you don’t need to let the yeast sit in the warm milk.

2. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to the second rise, cover the rolls, and refrigerate them for up to 12 hours. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

3. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after the second rise. Freeze the rolls in the pan for about 8 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.

4. How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls should be golden brown and feel set when you touch them. You can also tap the bottom of the rolls—if they sound hollow, they’re done.

5. Can I substitute milk with another liquid?

Whole milk is recommended for a rich flavor, but you can use other liquids like almond milk or even buttermilk, keeping in mind the flavor and texture may change.

6. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by ½ teaspoon to avoid the rolls becoming too salty.

7. Can I use a bread machine to make these rolls?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to knead and rise the dough. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding ingredients and setting the cycle.

8. How can I make these rolls more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.

9. What should I do if the dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to handle, add flour in small increments, about a tablespoon at a time. Be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the texture of the rolls.

10. Can I make these rolls into dinner rolls instead of Parker House rolls?

Yes! If you prefer, you can shape the dough into standard round dinner rolls instead of folding them to create the signature Parker House shape.

Conclusion

Parker House Rolls are a timeless treat that everyone will love. Whether served at a family dinner, holiday feast, or as a snack, their fluffy texture and rich buttery flavor make them irresistible. With just a few simple ingredients, these rolls are easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later—either way, they're sure to bring joy to your table!