Handwritten recipe card for ham rolls. Dinner main course.
by: salvagedrecipes

Ham Rolls from Eleanor Edwards

Ham Rolls from Eleanor Edwards
Ham Rolls are a warm, comforting Southern classic, blending tender biscuit-like dough with the savory goodness of smoked ham. This recipe captures the charm of old-fashioned kitchen traditions, simple ingredients, mixed by hand, and baked to golden perfection. The balance of buttery richness and salty ham makes these rolls perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory side for holiday dinners. Originating from rural home kitchens where nothing went to waste, these rolls became a beloved staple for using leftover ham. Today, they remain a nostalgic favorite, crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 190 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups flour
  • 6 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 lb ground smoked ham

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

  • Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.

Step 2: Cut in Butter

  • Cut in butter (or shortening) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Add Milk

  • Stir in milk gradually using a knife or spoon until soft dough forms.

Step 4: Roll Out Dough

  • Turn dough onto a floured board. Pat and roll lightly to about ¼ inch thickness.

Step 5: Add Ham

  • Sprinkle the ground smoked ham evenly over the dough.

Step 6: Form Rolls

  • Roll dough tightly as for cinnamon rolls. Press lightly to seal the edge.

Step 7: Slice and Bake

  • Cut into 2-inch slices. Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown, about 15–18 minutes.

Tips

  • Substitute chopped cooked bacon for ham for a smoky twist.
  • Add a sprinkle of cheddar cheese before rolling for extra flavor.
  • Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangier, tender dough.
  • These rolls freeze well—reheat in the oven before serving.
  • Brush the tops with melted butter for a golden finish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rollCalories: 190kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 7gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 340mgPotassium: 110mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 120IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword biscuit dough, brunch, brunch treat, family recipes, Ham, Oven, savory rolls, vintage
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!