parker house rolls recipe
The Best parker house rolls recipe

Classic Parker House Rolls Recipe
Delightful, buttery Parker House rolls are soft, pillowy, and perfect for breakfast or brunch. These rolls are traditionally served with maple syrup or butter.
🥘Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. -
2
In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Pour yeast mixture into the flour mixture and stir until combined. -
3
Add melted butter and egg to the dough. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead on low speed for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. -
4
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size. -
5
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking tray, spacing them about 1 inch apart. -
6
Let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed. -
7
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush rolls with melted butter or prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Brush or drizzle over the rolls. -
8
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow rolls to cool slightly before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer or large bowl with a whisk
- Oven
- Oven-safe baking tray or round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra softness, let the rolls cool slightly after baking before serving.
- Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option.
- Make sure yeast is active by testing it in warm water before proceeding.
Storage: {“roomTemperature”:”Up to 2 days in an airtight container”,”fridge”:”Up to 5 days”,”freezer”:”Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months”}
Watch Video Of How Classic Parker House Rolls Recipe Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Parker House Rolls
What is the secret to achieving the perfect crispy exterior on Parker House Rolls?
The secret lies in a few key steps: chilling the dough thoroughly (at least 24 hours) to prevent excessive expansion, using a high-fat dough (typically 30-35% fat) for richness, and baking at a moderate temperature (around 350°F/175°C) for a golden, crisp exterior. Additionally, brushing the rolls with melted butter just before baking enhances crispiness.
Why do some Parker House Rolls taste better than others, even if they’re made with the same recipe?
Several factors contribute to the quality: the freshness of the ingredients (especially butter and flour), proper dough fermentation (allowing yeast to activate naturally), and even the type of oven (a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet or heavy baking pan retains heat better). Some bakeries also use traditional methods like cold fermentation for a more complex flavor profile.
Can I make Parker House Rolls without yeast, and how would they differ?
Yes, you can use a quick bread method (like baking powder or baking soda), but the texture and flavor will be different—less tender and slightly denser. Traditional Parker House Rolls rely on yeast for their signature airy, fluffy consistency. For a yeast-free version, you’d need to adjust hydration and baking time to compensate.
How do I store Parker House Rolls to keep them soft and moist?
Store them in an airtight container lined with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 3 days (recovering softness by brushing with melted butter before serving). For longer storage (up to 1 week), freeze them, wrapped tightly in plastic and foil, then toast from frozen.
What’s the best way to serve Parker House Rolls with coffee or breakfast?
The classic pairing is with a warm, freshly brewed coffee (especially espresso or drip coffee) to cut through the richness. For breakfast, serve with whipped butter, honey, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Some bakeries also recommend pairing them with a light syrup (like maple or vanilla) or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
