When it comes to baking, the addition of a unique ingredient or a simple twist can transform an ordinary recipe into something extraordinary. This is certainly the case with brown butter sweet potato rolls, a delightful variation of traditional dinner rolls that bring comfort and a burst of flavor to any meal.
The secret to these rolls lies in their two star ingredients: sweet potatoes and brown butter. Sweet potatoes are known not only for their rich vitamins and minerals but also for their natural sweetness and moist texture, which makes them an excellent addition to baked goods. Meanwhile, brown butter provides a nutty and deep caramel-like flavor that enhances the overall taste of the rolls.
### Recipe Overview
#### Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato (about 1 cup when mashed)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour (more may be needed for dusting)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– Additional melted butter for brushing
#### Instructions:
**Prepare the Sweet Potato:** Start by peeling and chopping your sweet potato into cubes. Boil them in water until they are soft enough to be mashed easily. Drain the water and mash the cooked sweet potatoes; set aside to cool slightly.
**Brown the Butter:** In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally until it turns a golden-brown color and emits a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool.
**Activate the Yeast:** Warm up the milk slightly – it should be just warm to touch, not hot. Stir in sugar, then sprinkle yeast over it. Let this mixture sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
**Make the Dough:** In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer equipped with a dough hook attachment combine mashed sweet potato, browned butter, yeast mixture, flour, salt, and eggs. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Knead on medium speed or by hand on a lightly floured surface until you achieve a smooth and elastic dough — this should take about six to eight minutes.
**First Rise:** Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl covering with plastic wrap or damp cloth allowing it to rise in a warm place It takes approximately one hour or until doubled in size.
**Shape Rolls:** Once risen punch down dough gently releasing any air pockets Divide into equal-sized pieces shaping each into smooth balls Arrange these balls on lined baking sheets leaving space between them for expansion Cover loosely with plastic wrap let them rise again till almost double which usually takes about half an hour
**Bake:** Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Brush tops of risen rolls with melted butter then bake in preheated oven for about 15–20 minutes or until they turn golden brown Serve warm
### Serving Suggestions:
These savory sweet potato rolls are versatile enough to complement various dishes They pair wonderfully with soups stews or as part of your Thanksgiving spread Their natural sweetness also makes them an excellent base for sliders or mini sandwiches For breakfast try slathering them with honey or jam for added sweetness
### Conclusion:
Brown butter sweet potato rolls offer an innovative twist on classic dinner rolls By incorporating ingredients like nutritious sweet potatoes and flavor-packed brown butter these buns don’t just fill you up but also tantalize your tastebuds Whether you’re looking to impress guests at dinner provide comfort food at its finest or simply want something tasty alongside your meal this recipe promises satisfaction
