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Homemade Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls photo

Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls

These Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and lightly sweetened, perfect for any meal or occasion. Easy to make with wholesome ingredients!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Dough Hook
  • Kitchen towel
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons dry active yeast I prefer Red Star yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup warm water 105-110°F
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 1/2 cup canola oil
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons table salt
  • 1/2 cup 2% milk
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 3 cups whole wheat flour I used King Arthur brand
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • butter optional (not used)

Instructions
 

Make Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls: A Simple Method

  • In a small bowl, combine the warm water (105-110°F) and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, canola oil, honey, milk, and hot water. Once well combined, add the activated yeast mixture.
  • In another bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and table salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for about 5-7 minutes.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal pieces, rolling each piece into a ball. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased.
  • Cover the shaped rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
  • While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. If desired, brush the tops with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven.
  • Allow the rolls to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls warm or at room temperature!

Notes

  • Store unbaked shaped rolls in the refrigerator overnight for a make-ahead option.
  • Freeze baked rolls in an airtight container for up to three months.
  • For a vegan version, replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixture and use plant-based milk.
Keyword Bread, Dinner Rolls, Easy, Whole Wheat, Yeast