Sweet Potato Rolls: A Delicious Recipe!

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted a sweet potato roll. It was at a small family gathering, and the aroma alone was enough to draw me in. The flavor, though? That was something else entirely – a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that I couldn’t get enough of. It was soft, subtly sweet, and utterly comforting – the epitome of what I strive for in my own kitchen. This sweet potato roll was not just a bread; it was an experience.

I knew right then and there that I had to recreate that experience at home. After countless attempts and tweaks, I’ve finally nailed a sweet potato roll recipe that I’m absolutely thrilled to share with you. These rolls aren’t just delicious; they’re a warm hug in bread form, ready to transform any meal into a special occasion.

And that’s what Carmen Wausa Blog is all about – creating those approachable, comforting meals that bring joy and connection into our lives. These Sweet Potato Rolls are the perfect example, representing everything I believe in when it comes to home cooking. I’m beyond excited to share this recipe with you, because I know you’ll love it as much as my family does. Get ready for the most delicious, easy-to-make rolls you’ve ever tasted!

INGREDIENTS

Here’s the ingredient list for making the most delicious Sweet Potato Rolls. Don’t be intimidated; it’s surprisingly simple and the results are incredible!

  • 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F): The perfect temperature is key for activating the yeast.
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast: This is what gives our rolls that beautiful rise.
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps the yeast along.
  • ½ cup mashed cooked sweet potato: The star of the show! Make sure it’s smooth and lump-free.
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to the rolls.
  • 1 large egg: Contributes to the rolls’ soft texture.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
  • 3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour: Start with 3 ½ cups and add more as needed until the dough comes together.
  • 2 tablespoons honey: For brushing on top and adding a touch of extra sweetness
Ingredients for making sweet potato rolls displayed on a wooden surface

The secret to amazing Sweet Potato Rolls is using real butter. It makes all the difference in the flavor and texture. You’ll find the best sweet potatoes for this recipe at your local farmer’s market, especially in the fall. They add the perfect touch of sweetness and moisture!

If you want to splurge on one ingredient, make it good-quality honey. The complex flavor of the honey will really shine through when brushed on top.

For a vegan option, you can substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk and the butter with vegan butter. Use an egg replacer like flaxseed meal to maintain the roll’s soft and fluffy texture. Keep in mind, they might not be as fluffy as regular yeast rolls. These substitutions will still give you a delicious version of Sweet Potato Rolls. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for other bread recipes that use clever substitutions.

When prepping, I like to cook my sweet potatoes a day ahead. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to mash them. This makes the process much easier!

This Sweet Potato Rolls ingredient list is surprisingly simple but delivers incredible comfort!

Let’s Make This!

Ready to bake? Here are the steps for making these amazing Sweet Potato Rolls. Don’t worry – you’ve got this!

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready to go! This step is crucial for light and airy yeast rolls.
  2. Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the mashed sweet potato, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well until everything is combined.
  3. Gradually add the flour: Add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Start with 3 ½ cups and add more as needed until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball.
  4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is important for developing the gluten, which gives the rolls their structure. Here’s a helpful tip for Sweet Potato Rolls success: don’t be afraid to add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky, but be careful not to add too much, or the rolls will be dry.
  5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. In my kitchen, this Sweet Potato Rolls dough takes exactly 1 hour and 15 minutes to rise perfectly.
  6. Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round roll.
  7. Second rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spacing them evenly apart. Cover with plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy. Your Sweet Potato Rolls should look nice and plump before baking.
  8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with honey. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  9. Cool and enjoy: Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

This step might seem tricky, but I promise your Sweet Potato Rolls will work perfectly! While your Sweet Potato Rolls are cooking, take a moment to enjoy that amazing aroma! This is where your Sweet Potato Rolls transforms into something truly special.

SERVING & PRESENTATION

These Sweet Potato Rolls are so versatile! I love serving them warm with a pat of butter. Their slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with savory dishes like roasted chicken, ham, or even a hearty stew.

For a simple but elegant presentation, arrange the warm rolls in a basket lined with a cloth napkin. This makes them look extra inviting.

People always smile when I serve this Sweet Potato Rolls at Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. They’re always a hit!

I also love making mini Sweet Potato Rolls for sliders. Just cut them in half and fill them with your favorite sandwich fixings. This Sweet Potato Rolls creates the sweetest moments at family dinners!

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Or, you can freeze them for longer storage. Just thaw them out before serving. These homemade rolls taste amazing even the next day!

You can also get creative with seasonal variations. In the fall, I add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the dough for an extra warm and cozy flavor. For more ideas on serving, you might check out Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls – Sally’s Baking. They offer great serving inspiration.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making these Sweet Potato Rolls. I’ve answered them with my warm, helpful guidance!

Q: Can I make this Sweet Potato Rolls ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just punch it down in the morning and continue with the recipe as directed.

Q: What if I don’t have active dry yeast? Can I use instant yeast?

A: Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Just skip the proofing step and add the instant yeast directly to the dry ingredients.

Q: How do I know when my Sweet Potato Rolls is perfectly done?

A: The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be around 200°F (93°C).

Q: Can I freeze the Sweet Potato Rolls after baking?

A: Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls. Let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. For information on freezing baked rolls, Moist And Fluffy Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls Recipe (+VIDEO) offers good advice.

Q: What if my dough doesn’t rise?

A: There could be a few reasons why your dough isn’t rising. Make sure your yeast isn’t expired, and that your milk is at the right temperature. Also, avoid placing the dough in a cold area.

Q: Can I use a stand mixer to make the dough?

A: Yes, you can definitely use a stand mixer. Just use the dough hook attachment and follow the recipe as directed.

Q: What can I substitute for sweet potato if I don’t have any?

A: While the sweet potato is what gives these rolls their unique flavor, you could try using pumpkin puree as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but the texture should be similar. To learn more about working with sweet potatoes in bread, check out Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls – Handle the Heat.

These soft rolls are so easy to customize! If you prefer a less sweet roll, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.

Why This Sweet Potato Rolls Will Become Your New Favorite:

This Sweet Potato Rolls recipe represents everything that Carmen Wausa Blog stands for: approachable, comforting meals that bring people together. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and always a hit with family and friends. The best Sweet Potato Rolls recipes always make great family memories.

My Sweet Potato Rolls Success Tips:

  • Use warm milk to activate the yeast: This is crucial for a good rise.
  • Don’t over-knead the dough: Over-kneading can result in tough rolls.
  • Let the dough rise in a warm place: This helps the yeast do its job.

Here are a few Sweet Potato Rolls variations that I’ve created and loved:

  1. Cinnamon Swirl Sweet Potato Rolls: Add a cinnamon-sugar swirl to the dough before shaping the rolls.
  2. Herb and Garlic Sweet Potato Rolls: Mix in some chopped herbs and garlic powder for a savory twist.
  3. Maple Glazed Sweet Potato Rolls: Drizzle the baked rolls with a maple glaze for extra sweetness.

The Cinnamon Swirl version gets the most smiles, especially from the kids!

Golden brown sweet potato rolls fresh out of the oven

I’m confident that these Sweet Potato Rolls will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. They’re perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings. So go ahead, give them a try, and get ready to create some delicious memories! Make sure to share your yummy results! Let these Sweet Potato Rolls bring joy to your table!

 

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Sweet Potato Rolls

Golden Sweet Potato Rolls Fresh from the Oven

These Sweet Potato Rolls are soft, fluffy, and subtly sweet, making them the perfect addition to any meal. Their vibrant color and delicate flavor will be a delightful treat for your family and friends.

  • Author: Carmen
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 12 rolls
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potato, cooked
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the mashed sweet potato, sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
  3. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
  7. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  8. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until nearly doubled in size.
  9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  11. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter after baking for extra shine and flavor. Serve warm with butter or your favorite spread.

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