Ingredients
Dough
- 240 grams water, warmed (98-100ºF) (about 1 cup)
- 15 grams instant yeast (about 1 1/2 Tablespoons)
- 20 grams granulated sugar (about 2 Tablespoons)
- 150 grams sourdough discard (scant 2/3 cup)
- 1 large egg (about 50 grams)
- 35 grams unsalted butter, melted (about 2.5 Tablespoons)
- 12 grams salt (about 2 teaspoons)
- 540 grams bread flour (about 4 cups)
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- splash of water
Instructions
- Mix the starter and liquids. To the bowl of a stand mixer, add warm water (around 98-100ºF) and sourdough discard. Mix together quickly to combine. This ensures the cold discard warms up to aid yeast activation.
- Add sugar and yeast. Stir in the sugar and instant yeast. Wait a moment to observe the yeast activation, which is indicated by a yeasty aroma and clumping.
- Add egg, butter, and salt. Crack in the egg, add melted butter and salt, then mix to incorporate all wet ingredients evenly.
- Add flour and knead dough. With the dough hook running, add the bread flour gradually, reserving about half a cup. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough forms a smooth, elastic ball. If too sticky, incrementally add reserved flour until dough is tacky but not sticky. Alternatively, knead by hand for 7-8 minutes.
- Shape rolls. Turn dough onto a clean countertop. Divide into 12 equal pieces (~85-90 grams each). Shape each piece into a smooth, taut ball by pinching the sides under and rolling on the surface using your cupped hand to create tension.
- Arrange and proof. Nestle the shaped rolls close together in a 12-inch round or 9×13-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper if needed. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes until the rolls have puffed and are touching.
- Preheat oven. Remove the rolls if proofing in the oven, then preheat the oven to 375ºF.
- Prepare egg wash and apply. Whisk together one egg with a splash of water. Lightly brush this mixture over the tops of the risen rolls for a glossy finish.
- Bake the rolls. Bake at 375ºF for about 20 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190ºF.
- Finish and cool. Optionally brush the warm rolls with melted butter for extra richness. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the water temperature is between 98-100ºF to properly activate the instant yeast, especially if using cold sourdough discard.
- Proofing times may vary depending on room temperature; keep the dough warm to encourage rising, using an oven with the pilot light on as a warm spot if necessary.
- Use bread flour for best structure and chewiness; all-purpose flour can be substituted but may affect texture.
- Egg wash is optional but gives a beautiful glossy crust and golden color.
- These rolls freeze well after baking; thaw and warm before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American