Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Savory, soft, and aromatic, with a delicious dose of the caramelized nutty flavor that comes from browning butter, these Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls make a wonderful addition to any fall, winter, or holiday dinner. Their unique blend of flavors and aromas will impress your guests and elevate any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The brown butter adds a rich, nutty taste that transforms ordinary dinner rolls into something extraordinary.
• Aromatic Experience: Fresh sage and thyme create a delightful fragrance that fills your kitchen while baking.
• Versatile Pairing: These rolls complement a variety of dishes, from roasted meats to hearty soups, making them perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can enjoy success with this recipe.
• Make-Ahead Option: Plan ahead by preparing the dough in advance for stress-free entertaining during busy seasons.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with the Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Light-colored skillet or saucepan
• Medium heatproof bowl
• Silicone spatula
• Baking pan (9×13-inch or two 9-inch pans)

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing and kneading easier, ensuring your dough is well-combined and perfectly textured.
• Light-colored skillet: Helps monitor the butter’s browning process accurately to achieve that nutty flavor without burning.
• Silicone spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl, ensuring no ingredients are left behind.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls:
– 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
– 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk or buttermilk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
– 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast (1 standard packet)
– 3 Tablespoons (64g) honey, divided
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage leaves, plus an extra pinch for topping
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– 3 cups (390g) bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed
– optional: flaky sea salt, for finishing

How to Make Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Set out a medium heatproof bowl because you’ll need it at the end of this step. Place the sliced unsalted butter in a light-colored skillet or saucepan. Melt the butter over medium heat and stir or whisk constantly. After about 5–7 minutes, the butter will begin browning; you’ll notice lightly browned specks forming at the bottom of the pan. The color will deepen from yellow to golden-brown. Remove from heat immediately and pour into the bowl, including any brown solids that have formed on the bottom. Cool for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Yeast Mixture

Whisk the warm milk, yeast, and 1 Tablespoon of honey together in your stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl. Loosely cover and allow to sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy on top.

Step 3: Mix Dough Ingredients

Add the remaining honey, egg, 6 Tablespoons of slightly cooled brown butter (reserve the rest for brushing), salt, chopped sage, thyme, and 1 cup of bread flour. Mix on low speed for 30 seconds using a dough hook or paddle attachment. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a silicone spatula and add remaining flour. Beat on medium speed until the dough pulls away from the sides, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Knead Dough

Switch to a dough hook if you used a paddle. Knead in mixer for another 5 minutes or by hand on a floured surface until soft but slightly tacky. If it gets too sticky, sprinkle with flour as needed but avoid drying out.

Step 5: First Rise

Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or nonstick spray. Place dough in it, turning it to coat all sides in oil. Cover with foil, plastic wrap, or a kitchen towel. Let rise in a warm environment for about 1.5–2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Pan

Grease your baking pan(s). You can also use cast iron skillets or lined baking sheets if preferred.

Enjoy creating these delightful Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, perfect for sharing at your next gathering!

How to Serve Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Serving Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Their rich, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making them versatile for any occasion.

With Savory Soups

• Butternut Squash Soup: The sweetness of butternut squash complements the rolls’ flavor perfectly.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: Dip these rolls into a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal.

As a Side for Roasts

• Herb-Crusted Chicken: The aromatic sage in the rolls enhances the flavors of herb-roasted chicken.
• Garlic Butter Steak: Serve alongside juicy steak smothered in garlic butter for a satisfying dinner.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Thanksgiving Feast: These rolls make an excellent addition to the Thanksgiving table, perfect for soaking up gravy.
• Christmas Dinner: Pair with glazed ham or prime rib; they’ll be a hit among family and friends.

With Cheese and Charcuterie Boards

• Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses that complement the nutty flavors of the rolls.
• Charcuterie Board: Add sliced meats and olives for a delightful appetizer spread.

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How to Perfect Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

To achieve the best results with your Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality butter make all the difference in taste and texture.
• Monitor Dough Temperature: Keep your dough at a warm temperature during rising; this helps it rise better.
• Don’t Rush Kneading: Ensure you knead long enough until achieving the windowpane test; this develops gluten properly.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven fully before baking to ensure even cooking.
• Brush with More Brown Butter: Brush melted brown butter on top before serving for added richness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Pairing your Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables with olive oil and herbs, then roast until caramelized.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic or herbs provide a comforting side that complements the rolls well.
3. Green Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and balance to your meal.
4. Stuffing: Traditional stuffing seasoned with sage ties in beautifully with the flavor profile of these rolls.
5. Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots add a pop of color and sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory elements.
6. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides an excellent counterpoint to the rich flavors of the rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, it’s easy to encounter a few pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Using cold ingredients – Always warm your milk and ensure your egg is at room temperature. Cold ingredients can hinder yeast activation and result in dense rolls.
• Not browning the butter properly – Pay attention while browning the butter; it should reach a golden-brown color. Overcooking it can lead to a burnt flavor, while undercooking it won’t produce the desired nuttiness.
• Skipping the kneading – Kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls their soft texture. Don’t rush this step; knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Underestimating the rise time – Allow enough time for the dough to double in size during rising. Rushing this process can lead to less fluffy rolls.
• Overbaking – Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. Overbaking can dry them out and affect their flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Wrap each roll in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a container for best results.

Freezing Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

• Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping them for up to 2 months.
• For baked rolls, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place rolls on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 10-15 second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat gently for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls that may help you as you prepare this recipe.

Can I make Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before shaping and baking. This allows for enhanced flavor development.

What type of flour should I use?

For these dinner rolls, bread flour is recommended due to its higher protein content, which helps create a chewy texture.

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C) indicates they are fully baked.

Can I use other herbs instead of sage?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist on these dinner rolls.

What should I serve with my Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls?

These delicious rolls pair beautifully with soups, stews, roasts, or even as part of your Thanksgiving dinner spread!

Final Thoughts

Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not just delightful; they bring warmth and flavor to any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different herbs or toppings based on your preference. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll love how they elevate your dining experience!