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Handmade Sub Rolls

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These Handmade Sub Rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfectly designed to hold hearty sandwich fillings like meatballs. With a rich flavor from whole milk and butter, they strike the ideal balance between tenderness and structure. Made from scratch, these rolls elevate any sandwich, offering a fresh, preservative-free alternative that will take your meal to the next level.

Ingredients

1 cup whole milk (245g), warmed to 90°F

2½ tablespoons granulated sugar (30g)

2 teaspoons active dry yeast (11g)

3 cups bread flour (450g)

2 teaspoons fine sea salt (12g)

2 large eggs, beaten

3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42g), cold and cubed

1 egg white, beaten (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions

  • Bloom the Yeast:

    • Combine warm milk and granulated sugar in a medium bowl, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

    • Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.

  • Prepare the Dough:

    • In a stand mixer bowl, combine bread flour and fine sea salt.

    • Add the bloomed yeast mixture and beaten eggs to the flour mixture.

    • Using a dough hook, mix on low speed for 3 to 5 minutes until a shaggy dough forms.

  • Incorporate Butter:

    • Add the cold, cubed butter to the dough and mix on low for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  • First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):

    • Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning it to coat all sides.

    • Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.

  • Shape the Rolls:

    • Deflate the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface.

    • Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces, shaping each into a smooth ball by folding the edges into the center.

    • Let them rest for 10 minutes under a damp cloth.

  • Second Rise (Proofing):

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    • Shape each ball into an oval (about 6 inches long) and place on a prepared baking sheet.

    • Let them rise, covered, for 30 to 45 minutes, or until puffy.

  • Apply Egg Wash:

    • Whisk together egg white and water. Brush the tops of the risen rolls with the egg wash for a golden finish.

  • Bake:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, until golden brown.

    • Optionally, brush with melted butter for extra softness and flavor after baking.

  • Cool:

    • Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

Storage: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly version.

Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.