If you're searching for the perfect addition to your dinner table that’s both delicious and visually appealing, look no further than James Beard's Sweet Potato Rolls! These fluffy, golden rolls are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will have your guests begging for seconds. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, buttery roll with a hint of sweetness from the mashed sweet potatoes—it's a culinary experience you won't want to miss. Whether you're preparing a holiday feast or simply want to elevate your everyday meals, these rolls are sure to impress. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create something extraordinary? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 rolls
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the sweet potatoes. Peel and cut them into chunks, then boil in a pot of salted water until they are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth. Measure out 2 cups of the mashed sweet potatoes and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C) and the active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step.
- Add the mashed sweet potatoes, salt, and the frothy yeast mixture to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need to use all the flour, so keep an eye on the consistency of the dough.
- Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface again and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
- Place the dough balls into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll to allow for expansion. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
- While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. The internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C) when done.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. For a nice finish, you can brush the tops with melted butter before serving.
- Serve the sweet potato rolls warm, and enjoy them as a delightful addition to your meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: For the best flavor, opt for sweet potatoes that are firm and smooth. Avoid any with blemishes or soft spots.
- Perfectly Mashed: Ensure your sweet potatoes are mashed until smooth with no lumps. This will help achieve a uniform texture in your rolls.
- Activate Your Yeast: Make sure your milk is warm but not hot (around 110°F or 43°C) to activate the yeast properly. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing your rolls from rising.
- Knead Well: Kneading the dough is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the rolls their fluffy texture. Don’t rush this step—aim for about 5-7 minutes of kneading.
- Warm Rising Environment: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the bowl in an oven that’s turned off but has the light on to create a cozy environment for the yeast.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) for perfect doneness.
- Butter Finish: For an extra touch of flavor and shine, brush the tops of your rolls with melted butter right after they come out of the oven.
- Serve Warm: These rolls are best enjoyed warm. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore their fluffy texture.With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a batch of irresistible James Beard Sweet Potato Rolls that will delight your family and friends!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
