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No-Kneading Rolls
These classic No Kneading Rolls are a treasured part of vintage American cuisine. Simple and hearty, this Depression-era recipe is perfect for those who want homemade bread without the fuss of kneading. Traditionally baked in muffin tins, these rolls rise to a golden, buttery finish with minimal effort, an ideal choice for holiday dinners or everyday comfort meals. The use of compressed yeast and pantry staples makes it both economical and accessible, and its flexibility to include an egg adds a tender richness.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Course bread
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 175 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cake compressed yeast (or one packet of active dry yeast)
  • ¾ cup water (lukewarm )
  • ¼ cup shortening
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 cup water (boiling)
  • 1 egg (optional)
  • 5½ cups flour (approximately)
  • butter (melted, for brushing)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Yeast (skip if using dry yeast)

  • Dissolve compressed yeast in 3/4 cup lukewarm water.
  • Let sit while preparing the next step.

Step 2: Mix Base Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, combine shortening, salt, and sugar.
  • Pour 1 cup boiling water over these ingredients.
  • Stir until everything is dissolved. Allow to cool until lukewarm.

Step 3: Combine Yeast and Base

  • Once the mixture is lukewarm, add the dissolved yeast.
  • If using, beat in the egg at this stage.

Step 4: Add Flour

  • Gradually stir in approximately 5 1/2 cups of flour until a soft dough forms.
  • Step 5: Fill Muffin Tins
  • Grease muffin tins and fill each half full with dough.
  • Brush tops with melted butter.

Step 6: Let Rise

  • Cover the tins and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 2 hours or until dough has doubled in size.

Step 7: Bake

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Bake rolls for 20 minutes until golden brown.
  • Remove from tins immediately to prevent sogginess.

Tips

  • Eggless Option: Skip the egg for a firmer texture; use for dietary needs.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the dough, fill tins, and refrigerate overnight. Let rise before baking.
  • Sweet Version: Add 1/2 tsp vanilla and 2 more tablespoons sugar for breakfast-style rolls.
  • Topping Ideas: Sprinkle poppy seeds or sesame seeds before baking for added texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 175kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 15mgIron: 1.3mg
Keyword Baking, bread, comfort food, holidays, no knead, rolls, vintage, yeast rolls
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