Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Savory, soft, and aromatic, Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls offer a delightful twist on traditional bread. The combination of caramelized nutty flavor from the brown butter and the fragrant sage makes these rolls a perfect addition to any fall or winter meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a comforting side dish, these rolls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The unique combination of brown butter and sage creates an irresistible aroma and taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls complement holiday dinners, family gatherings, and cozy weeknight meals.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can succeed.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance so you can bake fresh rolls just before serving.
• Impressive Presentation: Soft, golden-brown rolls will elevate any dining table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make your baking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Light-colored skillet or saucepan
• Medium heatproof bowl
• Dough hook (if using a stand mixer)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13-inch or two 9-inch round/square pans)

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing and kneading the dough.
• Light-colored skillet: Helps monitor the browning process of the butter accurately.
• Dough hook: Ensures proper kneading without straining your hands.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
– 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk or buttermilk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
– 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast (1 standard packet)
– 3 Tablespoons (64g) honey, divided
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage leaves, plus an extra pinch for topping
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– 3 cups (390g) bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed
– optional: flaky sea salt, for finishing

How to Make Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Set out a medium heatproof bowl because you’ll need it at the end of this step. Place the sliced unsalted butter in a light-colored skillet or saucepan. Melt the butter over medium heat while stirring constantly. After about 5–7 minutes, you’ll notice lightly browned specks forming. Once it reaches a light caramel-brown color, remove it from heat immediately and pour it into the bowl, including any brown solids that have formed on the bottom of the pan. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Activate Yeast

In your stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk, yeast, and 1 Tablespoon of honey. Loosely cover this mixture and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy on top.

Step 3: Mix Dough Ingredients

Add the remaining honey, egg, 6 Tablespoons of cooled brown butter (reserve the rest), salt, chopped sage, thyme, and 1 cup of bread flour. Using a dough hook or paddle attachment, mix on low speed for about 30 seconds. Scrape down sides with a spatula before adding more flour. Beat on medium speed until dough pulls away from sides of the bowl (about 2 minutes). If too wet, gradually add more flour until workable.

Step 4: Knead Dough

Keep dough in the mixer with a dough hook or knead by hand on a floured surface for another full 5 minutes. If sticky during kneading, sprinkle flour as needed. The dough should feel soft but not dry. Perform a windowpane test to check if it’s ready—if light passes through without tearing, it’s good to rise.

Step 5: Let Dough Rise

Grease a large bowl with oil or nonstick spray. Place dough inside, turning to coat all sides in oil. Cover with foil or a clean towel and let rise in a warm area for about 1.5–2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Pan

Grease your chosen baking pan(s) – either a 9×13-inch pan or two round/square pans. You may also opt for baking in cast iron skillets or lined baking sheets.

Now you’re ready to shape your delicious Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls! Follow along with each step to create perfectly fluffy rolls that everyone will love!

How to Serve Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, especially during the colder months. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them perfect for pairing with various dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Roasted Meats

• Pair these rolls with roasted chicken or turkey for a comforting meal. The nutty flavor of the brown butter complements the savory meats beautifully.

As a Side for Soups

• Serve the rolls alongside hearty soups, like butternut squash or creamy tomato soup. They are perfect for dipping and adding a touch of warmth to your bowl.

At Holiday Gatherings

• These rolls make an excellent choice for festive occasions. Their aromatic sage and brown butter flavor pairs well with traditional holiday dishes, enhancing the overall feast.

With Salads

• Enjoy these rolls with a fresh garden salad or a warm spinach salad. The contrast of textures will delight your palate and keep your meal balanced.

As Appetizers

• Cut the rolls into smaller pieces and serve them warm with flavored butters or spreads as an appetizer. This is a great way to impress your guests at gatherings.

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How to Perfect Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Perfecting your Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can take a little practice, but these tips will help ensure success every time you bake them.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and good-quality butter for the best flavor. Fresh sage will enhance the aroma and taste significantly.

• Monitor Dough Temperature: Make sure your milk is warmed to about 110°F (43°C). Too hot can kill yeast, while too cold may not activate it properly.

• Knead Properly: Kneading until the dough passes the windowpane test ensures that gluten develops correctly, giving you soft and fluffy rolls.

• Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow enough time for the dough to double in size during rising. A warm environment helps expedite this process effectively.

• Keep Them Moist: After baking, brush the rolls with leftover brown butter for added moisture and flavor. This step enhances their richness significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

When planning your meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls. Each option complements their unique flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs perfectly with savory rolls.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots add a pop of color and flavor that balances the richness of the dinner rolls.

3. Cranberry Sauce – A tangy cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the buttery rolls, making each bite delightful.

4. Butternut Squash Soup – This velvety soup brings out the autumnal flavors in both itself and the dinner rolls.

5. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – Crispy Brussels sprouts cooked with bacon create a savory side that complements the nutty notes of the rolls.

6. Green Bean Almondine – Lightly sautéed green beans topped with almonds offer a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft dinner rolls.

7. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing makes for a fresh and zesty accompaniment to your meal.

8. Roasted Root Vegetables – A medley of seasonal root vegetables enhances any plate while echoing fall flavors alongside your dinner rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your success. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not browning the butter properly: Pay close attention while browning the butter. If it burns, it will affect the flavor of your rolls. Use a light-colored pan to see the color change more clearly.
• Ignoring yeast activation: Skipping the step of letting the yeast bloom can lead to dense rolls. Always allow the yeast and warm milk mixture to foam before proceeding.
• Over-kneading or under-kneading dough: Finding the right balance in kneading is crucial. Over-kneading can make rolls tough, while under-kneading may result in a poor rise. Aim for a soft, slightly tacky dough.
• Skipping the first rise: Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size is essential for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; it ensures proper texture.
• Using incorrect flour measurements: Be precise with flour measurement. Too much flour can make your rolls dry, while too little can make them too wet. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

• Wrap each roll in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Steam lightly over simmering water for about 5 minutes, covering with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions:

Can I use other herbs instead of sage?

Yes! You can substitute sage with rosemary or oregano for different flavor profiles.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size. You can also poke it gently; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

What can I serve with Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls?

These rolls pair wonderfully with soups, salads, and holiday meals. They also make great sandwiches!

Can I make these dinner rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge, then shape and bake when ready.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not just delicious; they’re also versatile and perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize them with different herbs or toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!