Old Fashioned Instant Yeast Potato Dinner Rolls Recipe
Soft, pillowy dinner rolls made with instant mashed potato flakes that create an exceptionally tender crumb and help keep the rolls fresh longer. The potato flakes add moisture and structure while the yeast creates a light, airy texture. These golden brown rolls are perfect for holiday meals, Sunday dinners, or any time you want homemade bread on the table. The dough is easy to work with and rises beautifully, making this recipe approachable for home bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 ½ teaspoons instant yeast, 1 packet
- 1 cup warm milk, 95-105 degrees
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup butter, room temperature, divided
- 3 cups all-purpose flourbread flour1:1vegetarian
chewier texture
- ¾ cup instant mashed potato flakes
- 1 ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- 1
Combine sugar, yeast and warm milk in a bowl and let sit until bubbly
- 2
Whisk in egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture
- 3
Add wet ingredients to stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl
- 4
Add flour, potato flakes, and salt then combine using dough hook
- 5
Knead for 5 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic
- 6
Cover dough and place in warm location to rise until doubled
- 7
Punch down dough and divide in half
- 8
Roll one half into a rectangle
- 9
Divide dough into equal strips and brush with melted butter
- 10
Roll strips from skinny end into rolls and repeat with remaining dough
- 11
Place rolls on greased cookie sheet with even spacing
- 12
Cover and allow to double then brush tops with butter
- 13
Heat oven and bake until golden brown
- 14
Remove and brush tops with butter again
Tips
Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure milk temperature stays between 95-105°F for proper yeast activation.
The potato flakes help create extra soft rolls and keep them fresh longer than traditional dinner rolls.
Brush with butter before and after baking for the softest, most flavorful crust.
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can be shaped and refrigerated overnight, then brought to room temperature before second rise.
Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam alongside dinner.
Common Mistakes
Check milk temperature with thermometer to avoid killing yeast with heat.
Don't skip the potato flakes as they provide the signature soft texture.
Allow full doubling time for both rises for best texture.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
use cooled potatoes
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and complete the second rise before baking.
What if I don't have instant potato flakes?
You can substitute with 1/4 cup cooled mashed potatoes, but the texture will be slightly different and less tender.
How long do these rolls keep fresh?
Store covered at room temperature for 2-3 days. The potato flakes help them stay soft longer than regular dinner rolls.