Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by warming the milk to about 37-40°C (98-104°F). It should feel warm to the touch but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.
In a small bowl, combine 105 ml of warm milk, 12 g (1 tbsp) of sugar, and 1.5 g (1/2 tsp) of active dry yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast and sugar.
Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic in the dough.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, add 150 g of all-purpose or bread flour and 1.5 g (1/4 tsp) of salt. Stir to combine the dry ingredients.
Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture, followed by 15 ml (1 tbsp) of olive oil.
Using a wooden spoon or spatula, stir the ingredients together until a rough dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, you can add a little more warm milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and begin kneading it by hand. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft, slightly tacky, but not sticky.
If the dough is sticking too much to your hands or the surface, sprinkle a little more flour, but avoid adding too much, as this can make the rolls dense.
Step 4: First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
A good spot for the dough to rise is in a slightly warm oven (turned off) or a sunny spot in your kitchen.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
Divide the dough into equal portions, depending on the size of rolls you want. For smaller rolls, divide the dough into 4-6 pieces. For larger dinner rolls, divide into 3-4 pieces.
Roll each portion into a smooth ball by gently pulling the sides of the dough toward the bottom and pinching it together.
Place the shaped rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Be sure to leave some space between each roll as they will expand during baking.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they are puffy and almost doubled in size.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
While the rolls are undergoing their second rise, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 8: Bake the Rolls
Once the rolls have finished their second rise, place them in the preheated oven.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
If you want a shiny finish on the rolls, you can brush the tops with a little olive oil or melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
These rolls are best enjoyed warm and can be paired with butter, jam, or any meal of your choice.
Cooking Tips:
Yeast Activation: Make sure the milk is not too hot when adding the yeast. The ideal temperature is around 37-40°C (98-104°F). If it’s too hot, it will kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
Kneading: Kneading the dough helps develop gluten, which is essential for the bread’s structure. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives the rolls a wonderful richness, but if you prefer, you can use melted butter or a neutral oil like sunflower oil for a milder flavor.
Flour Type: You can use either all-purpose flour or bread flour for this recipe. Bread flour will result in a slightly chewier texture due to its higher gluten content, while all-purpose flour will produce a lighter, softer roll.
Rising Time: The rising times may vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen. The dough should double in size during the first rise and become noticeably puffier during the second rise. If your kitchen is cold, the dough may take longer to rise, so be patient.
Storage:
Room Temperature: Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If they start to lose softness, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Freezing: These rolls freeze well. Once they are fully baked and cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, let them thaw at room temperature and then warm them in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5-10 minutes.
Make-Ahead: You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after the first rise. Simply cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature, shape the rolls, and proceed with the second rise and baking.
Nutritional Facts (Per Roll, based on 6 rolls):
Calories: 150-170 kcal
Protein: 3-4 g
Fat: 4-6 g
Carbohydrates: 20-22 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 100-150 mg
These olive oil rolls are light and moderately low in calories, making them a great addition to any meal. The olive oil adds healthy fats, while the milk provides calcium and protein.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. However, whole wheat flour can make the rolls denser. To keep them soft, use a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.
2. Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough? Absolutely! You can add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for a more savory flavor. You can also mix in grated cheese like parmesan or cheddar for a delicious cheesy twist.
3. What should I do if the dough doesn’t rise? If the dough doesn’t rise, check the yeast to make sure it’s still active (it should foam when mixed with warm milk and sugar). Ensure that the room temperature is warm enough for the dough to rise. If necessary, place the dough in a warm oven (turned off) with a bowl of hot water underneath to create a humid environment for rising.
4. Can I make this dough in a stand mixer? Yes, you can use a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment. Mix on medium-low speed for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
5. How do I know when the rolls are done baking? The rolls are done when they turn golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you’re unsure, you can check the internal temperature with a kitchen thermometer; it should read around 90-95°C (195-200°F).
Conclusion:
These homemade soft olive oil bread rolls are an easy and delicious way to bring fresh bread to your table. With a golden crust and fluffy interior, these rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them with dinner, using them for sandwiches, or simply enjoying them with butter. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the rich flavor of olive oil, makes them a versatile bread recipe that you’ll want to return to time and again. They’re best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven, but they also store well for later enjoyment.
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