Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Rolls: A Bread Lover’s Dream

by

A Seasonal Delight That Redefines Homemade Bread

Prepare to fall in love with the most tender, flavorful bread you’ve ever tasted. These Pumpkin Rolls are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of autumn’s most beloved ingredient. Imagine soft, pillowy rolls infused with the subtle sweetness of butternut squash, with a golden exterior sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds. Each bite promises a delicate texture and a hint of warmth that will transform your bread basket into a gourmet experience.

Ingredients

  • Butternut Squash: 260 g (9.2 oz)
  • Egg: 1 large
  • Sugar: 2 tablespoons (25 g)
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon (5 g)
  • Instant Yeast: 4 g (0.14 oz)
  • All-Purpose Flour: 400 g (14.1 oz)
  • Vegetable Oil: 30 ml (1 fl oz)
  • Sesame Seeds: For topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Butternut Squash

  1. Roast Squash:
    • Peel and cube butternut squash
    • Roast at 200°C (392°F) for 25-30 minutes
    • Until soft and slightly caramelized
    • Let cool slightly
  2. Puree Squash:
    • Mash or blend roasted squash
    • Ensure smooth consistency
    • Allow to cool to room temperature

Make the Dough

  1. Activate Yeast:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine:
      • Warm squash puree
      • Sugar
      • Instant yeast
    • Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy
  2. Mix Dough:
    • Add egg and vegetable oil
    • Gradually incorporate flour
    • Mix until a soft dough forms
  3. Knead Dough:
    • Turn out onto floured surface
    • Knead for 8-10 minutes
    • Dough should be smooth and elastic
    • If too sticky, add flour sparingly
  4. First Rise:
    • Place dough in oiled bowl
    • Cover with clean kitchen towel
    • Let rise in warm place for 1 hour
    • Dough should double in size

Shape and Bake

  1. Shape Rolls:
    • Punch down risen dough
    • Divide into 8-10 equal portions
    • Shape into smooth, round rolls
  2. Second Rise:
    • Place rolls on baking sheet
    • Cover and let rise for 30 minutes
    • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
  3. Prepare for Baking:
    • Brush rolls with beaten egg
    • Sprinkle with sesame seeds
  4. Bake:
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes
    • Until golden brown
    • Rolls should sound hollow when tapped

Serving

Serve warm, with butter or your favorite spread.

Nutritional Information

  • Servings: 8-10 rolls
  • Calories per Roll: Approximately 180-200 calories
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 5g

Cooking Time and Preparation

  • Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Use room temperature ingredients
  • Don’t rush the rising process
  • Ensure a warm, draft-free area for dough to rise
  • Brush with egg wash for golden, shiny crust
  • Cool on a wire rack to prevent soggy bottoms

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Squash Alternatives:
    • Use pumpkin puree
    • Try sweet potato for similar texture
  • Seed Variations:
    • Replace sesame seeds with pumpkin seeds
    • Try everything bagel seasoning
  • Dietary Modifications:
    • Use gluten-free flour
    • Substitute egg with flax egg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?

Prepare dough a day in advance, refrigerate overnight.

How Do I Store Leftover Rolls?

Keep in airtight container for 2-3 days.

Can I Freeze These Rolls?

Yes, freeze after cooling completely.

What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?

Ensure yeast is fresh and environment is warm.

Are These Rolls Sweet?

Lightly sweet, with subtle squash flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Room Temperature: 2-3 days
  • Refrigeration: Up to 5 days
  • Freezing: Up to 1 month
  • Reheating: Warm in oven for best texture

Dive into these Pumpkin Rolls—a soft, comforting bread that captures the essence of autumn in every bite!