Fluffy Spelt Dinner Rolls Recipe

Spelt flour: An ancient grain with a nutty flavor, used as the base for the rolls.

Active dry yeast: A leavening agent that helps the dough rise and become fluffy.

Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps form the dough.

Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps feed the yeast.

Olive oil: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.

When kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push it away from you, then fold it back over itself and give it a quarter turn. This helps develop the gluten in the spelt flour, which is essential for achieving that perfect texture in your dinner rolls. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on your work surface, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the rolls dense.

• spelt flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour has a similar nutritional profile and texture, making it a good alternative for maintaining the density and flavor of the rolls.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in water before mixing with other ingredients.

• warm water - Substitute with milk: Warm milk can add a richer flavor and softer texture to the rolls, though it may slightly alter the final taste.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and moisture content, making it a suitable alternative for honey.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the same quantity and will add a subtle coconut flavor, which can complement the sweetness of the rolls.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and will provide a slightly different mineral content, enhancing the overall flavor of the rolls.

• Allow the dinner rolls to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the rolls soggy.

• For short-term storage:

  • Place the cooled rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
  • Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • To refresh the rolls, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

• For longer storage:

  • Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place the wrapped rolls in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container.
  • Label the bag with the date and contents.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.

• To thaw frozen rolls:

  • Remove the desired number of rolls from the freezer.
  • Let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
  • For a quick thaw, microwave each roll on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds.

• To reheat thawed rolls:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the thawed rolls on a baking sheet.
  • Warm them in the oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

• For an extra touch of flavor:

  • Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter or olive oil before reheating.
  • Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt or herbs like rosemary or thyme for added aroma and taste.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the dinner rolls in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

• For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place the dinner rolls on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the dinner rolls in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't get too crispy.

• To reheat on the stovetop, use a steamer basket. Bring a pot of water to a simmer and place the dinner rolls in the steamer basket. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and soft.

• For a toaster oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the dinner rolls directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Large mixing bowl: To combine the warm water and honey, and later to mix in the spelt flour, olive oil, and salt.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the spelt flour, warm water, honey, and olive oil accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure out the salt precisely.

• Wooden spoon: To stir the ingredients together until a dough forms.

• Floured surface: To knead the dough on, ensuring it doesn't stick.

• Damp cloth: To cover the dough while it rises, keeping it moist.

• Lightly oiled bowl: To place the dough in for its first rise.

• Baking sheet: To place the shaped rolls on for their final rise and baking.

• Oven: To bake the rolls at the specified temperature.

• Cooling rack: To cool the rolls after baking, ensuring they don't become soggy.

Use a stand mixer: Knead the dough with a stand mixer for 5 minutes instead of by hand for 10 minutes.

Pre-measure ingredients: Have all ingredients measured and ready before starting to save time during preparation.

Warm environment: Let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to speed up the rising process.

Batch baking: Double the recipe and freeze extra rolls for future use, saving time on another day.