There’s something downright magical about pulling a tray of Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls from the oven—the warm aroma, the golden hue, and that irresistible pillowy softness. These rolls blend the gentle sweetness of mashed sweet potato into classic dinner rolls, delivering flavor, color, and pure comfort. Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight meal or planning a holiday feast, Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls will turn any table into a celebration and have everyone reaching for seconds (or thirds!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls lies in the simplicity of their ingredients—each one has a special role. From that earthy sweetness to a buttery richness, these pantry staples work together to create rolls that are as fluffy as they are flavorful.
- Mashed Sweet Potato: Adds lovely sweetness, moisture, and that signature golden-orange color.
- Warm Whole Milk: Activates the yeast and keeps the rolls tender.
- Granulated Sugar: Balances the flavors and feeds the yeast for a higher rise.
- Active Dry Yeast: Gives the rolls their addictive fluffiness and lightness.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted into the dough (and brushed on top!) for richness and a soft crumb.
- Large Egg: Binds the dough and lends extra tenderness.
- All-Purpose Flour: The sturdy foundation—be sure to measure carefully for the best texture.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the dough balanced.
- Extra Melted Butter: Brushed over the freshly baked rolls for added shine and melt-in-your-mouth appeal.
How to Make Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining warm milk, a spoonful of sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Give it a quick stir and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes in a cozily warm spot. You’re looking for a foamy top, which means your yeast is alive and ready to do its job. This is an essential foundation step—properly bloomed yeast ensures your Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls will rise tall and fluffy.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potato, melted butter, egg, and the rest of your sugar. When this mixture is smooth and creamy, it’s time to pour in your activated yeast-milk mixture. Stir to blend everything into a harmonious orange-gold base.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring as you go. The dough will start out sticky, but as you keep adding flour (and trust your instincts), it will come together as a soft, slightly tacky mass. Don’t worry if you need a bit more flour—the final texture should be easy to handle but still moist and supple.
Step 4: Knead Until Smooth
Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface, then knead by hand for 8 to 10 minutes. Use the heels of your hands and push away, then fold the dough back over itself. When it’s smooth, elastic, and springs back under your fingers, you’re there! Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about an hour until doubled in size—the perfect time for a tea break or prepping your main dish.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide into 12 equal portions. Gently round each into a smooth ball and arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined sheet. Cover them again and let rise until puffed, about 30 to 40 minutes. Your patience pays off here—this second rise helps deliver cloud-like Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes, until beautifully golden. The final flourish: as soon as they emerge from the oven, brush each roll with melted butter for a glossy finish and even more flavor. Let them cool slightly (if you can wait!) before serving warm.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls
Garnishes
For extra visual flair and flavor, sprinkle your freshly baked rolls with a pinch of flaky sea salt, a dusting of cinnamon-sugar, fresh herbs like thyme, or even a drizzle of honey butter. These little touches make Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls pop on any table.
Side Dishes
Pair these delightful rolls with hearty main courses—think roasted turkey, glazed ham, chicken stew, or vegetarian chili. They’re equally at home soaking up gravy, stew, or simply enjoyed with a pat of butter on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls are as versatile as they are delicious. Stack them in a rustic bread basket for casual family dinners, or tuck a few in a linen-lined dish for a festive gathering. For an elegant touch, split and fill with honeyed whipped butter, or use leftover rolls to make miniature sandwiches the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store cooled Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, move them to the fridge—just be sure to warm before serving!
Freezing
These rolls freeze like a dream. Once completely cooled, layer them in a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature or microwave gently when cravings strike; they’ll be almost as perfect as fresh.
Reheating
Rewarm rolls in a low oven (300°F or 150°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or give them a quick zap in the microwave wrapped in a damp towel. Either way, you’ll regain that “just-baked” softness—don’t forget an extra brush of melted butter for a finishing touch.
FAQs
What makes sweet potato dinner rolls so fluffy?
The mashed sweet potato contributes moisture and natural sugars, while the active dry yeast ensures a high, airy rise. Kneading the dough and giving it two rises are also key steps for achieving that soft, fluffy texture everyone loves.
Can I make the dough ahead and refrigerate overnight?
Absolutely! After the first rise, cover the shaped rolls tightly and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let them come to room temperature and finish their second rise before baking. This makes planning big meals or special occasions much easier.
Is it possible to use whole wheat flour or make these gluten-free?
You can substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, though the rolls may be slightly denser. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but expect some changes to the rise and texture.
How do I know if my rolls are done baking without overbaking?
The tops should be a rich golden brown, and the rolls will sound slightly hollow if tapped. You can also use a thermometer—an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) usually means they’re perfect.
Can I add spices or other mix-ins to the dough?
Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or a bit of ground ginger add warmth, or try folding in dried cranberries or chopped pecans for more flavor and texture. Just keep total mix-ins to about 1/2 cup so the dough remains manageable.
Final Thoughts
These Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls have a way of making every meal feel extra special, and sharing them with family or friends is pure joy. Give this recipe a try—you may find they become your new favorite dinner roll, weaving warmth and a touch of subtle sweetness into every bite.
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Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls are a delightful twist on classic dinner rolls, adding a subtle sweetness and beautiful color to your table. Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, these rolls are perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
- 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato (about 1 medium sweet potato)
- 1/2 cup warm whole milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tablespoon sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine sweet potato, melted butter, egg, and sugar. Add yeast mixture, then stir in flour and salt. Knead until smooth.
- Rise the Dough: Let the dough rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Shape and Bake: Divide dough, shape into rolls, let rise again, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes.
Notes
- These rolls freeze well; store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
