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.
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)
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.
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.
Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/handmade-sub-rolls/