Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Savory and delightful, Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls elevate any meal with their soft texture and rich, nutty flavor. Perfect for fall and winter gatherings, these rolls shine at holiday dinners, making them a must-have addition to your table. Their unique taste comes from the butter being browned, adding depth to every bite. Whether you’re serving them with soup or as a side to your main course, these rolls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The brown butter gives these rolls a rich and nutty taste that pairs perfectly with savory dishes.
• Aromatic Experience: Fresh sage and thyme infuse each roll with an inviting aroma that captures the essence of autumn.
• Versatile Serving Options: These dinner rolls complement any meal, from Thanksgiving turkey to casual weeknight dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Easily prepare the dough in advance, allowing you more time to enjoy your gathering.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture: Each bite offers a soft interior with a slightly crispy exterior, creating a delightful contrast.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, gather your tools for a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make the process enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Light-colored skillet or saucepan
• Medium heatproof bowl
• Silicone spatula
• Dough hook (if using stand mixer)
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking pan (9×13-inch or two 9-inch pans)

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Simplifies mixing and kneading the dough for consistent results.
• Light-colored skillet: Helps monitor the browning of the butter, ensuring perfect caramelization without burning.
• Silicone spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls without damaging them, making cleanup easy.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls:
– 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 butter in a light-colored skillet or saucepan. Melt the butter over medium heat while stirring constantly. After about 5–7 minutes, it will foam and start browning. Watch for lightly browned specks forming at the bottom of the pan along with a nutty aroma. Once it reaches a light caramel-brown color, remove it from heat and pour it into the bowl, including any brown solids. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

Whisk together warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of honey in your stand mixer’s bowl or a large mixing bowl. Loosely cover it and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

Add remaining honey, egg, 6 tablespoons of cooled brown butter (reserve some for brushing), salt, sage, thyme, and 1 cup of bread flour. Using a dough hook or paddle attachment on low speed, mix for 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides then add remaining flour. Beat on medium until dough pulls away from sides—about 2 minutes. If it’s too wet to knead, add more flour by the tablespoon until manageable.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Keep dough in mixer with dough hook attached (or switch if necessary). Knead on medium speed for another 5 minutes or by hand on a floured surface until soft yet tacky—about 5 minutes. If sticky during kneading, sprinkle flour as needed but avoid adding too much to keep dough soft.

Step 5: First Rise

Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or spray; place dough inside and turn to coat all sides. Cover with foil, plastic wrap, or a towel. Let rise in a warm spot for about 1.5–2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Pan

Grease your baking pan(s) – either one 9×13-inch dish or two round/square pans. Alternatively, use a cast iron skillet or lined baking sheet if preferred.

With these steps complete, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying delicious Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls that are perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Serving Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can elevate any meal, especially during the colder months. Their nutty flavor and soft texture make them a delightful addition to various dishes. Here are some ideas on how to serve these delicious rolls.

With a Warm Bowl of Soup

• Pair with Butternut Squash Soup: The sweetness of the squash complements the savory notes of the rolls.
• Serve alongside Chicken Noodle Soup: Perfect for a comforting dinner, these rolls add heartiness to your meal.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Include in Thanksgiving Dinner: These rolls make an excellent side dish for turkey and gravy.
• Serve with a Christmas Roast: Their rich flavors pair perfectly with juicy meats and festive sides.

For a Cozy Family Dinner

• Enjoy with Spaghetti and Meatballs: Use them to soak up delicious marinara sauce.
• Serve alongside Beef Stew: The rolls are perfect for dipping into hearty, savory broth.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Perfecting your Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls is key to achieving that soft, flavorful outcome. Here are some tips to help you get it right every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
• Monitor Butter Temperature: Let the browned butter cool slightly before adding it to the dough to avoid cooking the eggs.
• Knead Properly: Knead until the dough passes the windowpane test for perfect texture.
• Let Dough Rise in Warmth: A warm spot helps activate yeast effectively, leading to better rises.
• Brush with More Brown Butter: Adding more brown butter before baking enhances flavor and adds shine.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix in other herbs like rosemary or thyme for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some top suggestions that complement their rich flavor.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes flavored with garlic create a delightful pairing.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nuttiness of roasted sprouts complements the rolls beautifully.
3. Creamed Spinach: This dish adds richness and a touch of elegance to your meal.
4. Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots contrast nicely with the savory rolls.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance out the richness of the dinner rolls.
6. Stuffing with Sausage and Herbs: A hearty stuffing brings traditional flavors that enhance your dinner experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your rolls turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the browning process: Not browning the butter can lead to a lack of that rich, nutty flavor. Be patient and watch for the golden-brown color.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can affect yeast activation. Always use warm milk (about 110°F) and room-temperature eggs for best results.
• Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Aim for a soft, slightly tacky dough that passes the windowpane test.
• Neglecting the rise time: Rushing the rising process will result in dense rolls. Allow ample time for the dough to double in size—typically 1.5–2 hours.
• Not measuring flour properly: Using too much flour can lead to dry rolls. Spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Freezing Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

• You can freeze these rolls for up to 3 months.
• Place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat. Add a little butter and warm rolls until heated through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s some helpful information regarding Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls that you may find useful.

Can I make Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, shape it into rolls, and then refrigerate overnight before baking.

What can I use instead of fresh sage?

Dried sage can be used as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.

Can I add other herbs to the rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding different herbs like rosemary or parsley for unique flavors.

How do I know when my dinner rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not only comforting but also versatile enough to complement any meal. Their rich flavor profile makes them perfect for fall or winter gatherings, while also being delightful at any dinner table. Customize by adding different herbs or spices to suit your taste!