Bake

Heavenly Oatmeal-Molasses Rolls

by:
December 13, 2010
5
20 Ratings
Photo by James Ransom
  • Prep time 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Cook time 40 minutes
  • Serves 8-12
Author Notes

I wasn’t a bread maker before I joined Food52. I caught the bug after trying AntoniaJames’ Buttermilk Oatmeal bread. I’ve explored many different types of breads and rolls since then. This one is an adaptation of a recipe for oatmeal bread from the James Beard Foundation website, which I checked out after Stephanie Bourgeois’ cook spotlight. When I tried it, the subtle depth of flavor from the molasses really surprised me. Even if you aren’t an experienced bread maker, don’t fear. The steps are straightforward and the dough is a dream to handle (no kneading). It is also very flexible because the 1st rise in refrigerator can go as little as two hours to overnight. One of the changes I made is to really up the butter because I love buttery rolls! Rolling up each roll helps give a nice and shred-y texture when you pull the rolls apart. And don’t pass on brushing the baked rolls with butter after they come out of the oven. The smell of the hot rolls and butter is heavenly, hence the name. - monkeymom —monkeymom

Test Kitchen Notes

Monkeymom's supple, rich rolls have just a hint of sweetness to them -- they're chewy and tender and full of deep flavor from the molasses, but versatile enough to complement (rather than overwhelm) a variety of main dishes. We love the ease of the first refrigerator rise, and these are virtually guaranteed to come out looking beautiful, with their butter-slicked and oat-flecked tops. - A&M —The Editors

What You'll Need
Ingredients
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup lukewarm water
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 3/4 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup butter cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 egg
  • 2 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose or bread flour (up to 3 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing tops of rolls (up to 3 tablespoons)
Directions
  1. Dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup lukewarm water with a pinch of sugar. Let stand until bubbly. If it doesn’t get bubbly, throw it out and get some new yeast.
  2. Scald milk then add it to the butter in your mixing bowl. When butter has melted, add brown sugar, rolled oats, molasses, and salt. Blend thoroughly and cool to lukewarm.
  3. Add egg and mix well. Add the yeast and mix to incorporate it. Then mix in 2 ½ cups of the flour. Add what you need to of the remaining ½ cup of flour until the dough loses its sheen. Let rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Scrape the dough out of the mixing bowl and put it in a greased bowl. Turn to coat and cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of two hours. It can sit overnight as well. It doesn't rise a lot.
  5. Turn out the chilled dough on a floured work surface and knead or fold and turn the dough slightly. Cut dough into 12 balls. Press each ball into a flat rectangle with your fingers, then roll up and tuck ends under. Place seam-side down in a well-buttered 9 inch round pan. Brush all over with ½ of melted butter and sprinkle with a little of the rolled oats. Let rise until doubled in size in a warm place, about two hours.
  6. Preheat oven to 350° F. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until rolls are nicely browned and sound hollow when you tap their tops. The internal temperature should be 190 degrees. Remove from the pans and brush generously with remaining melted butter. Let cool on a rack for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Serve warm…with salted butter!
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monkeymom

Recipe by: monkeymom

My favorite distraction is to cook. Though science and cooking/baking have a lot in common, I'm finding that each allows me to enjoy very different parts of my life. Cooking connects me with my heritage, my family, friends, and community. I'm really enjoying learning from the food52 community, who expose me to different ingredients and new ways to cook.

237 Reviews

Alice November 12, 2022
Just made these for the first time. They are some of the best rolls I’ve ever made! So fluffy and look exactly like the picture. They doubled in size in 2 hrs and baked up beautifully. I did refrigerate the dough overnight without any issues. Thanks Food52 for another delicious recipe. Adding this recipe to my must haves! Super easy to make :)
 
jrmcpa2 March 15, 2022
I like to sprinkle these with everything bagel topping. They freeze very well.
 
K.V. December 14, 2021
Holy mother this was delicious: pillowy-soft with a nice taste and color. I had already started the yeast when I remembered I didn't have eggs; I used Bob's Red Mill egg replacer instead and wondered how that would respond to the bread flour I had on hand. Next time (likely soon!) I'll make it as directed.
 
kniterati January 10, 2021
Been baking bread for half a century. These rolls were a disappointment. They never achieved size beyond their formation. It stands to reason because without actual kneading to develop the dough, they can't rise. Instructions never say to knead it effectively. Needs a rewrite.
 
Laura P. January 10, 2021
I haven’t had that problem, but perhaps you were expecting something like a Parker House roll. Remember that oats have no gluten at all, and I make mine with even more of a “handicap” since I replace 40% of the white flour with whole wheat. The resulting rolls may not be as high-rising as a Parker House, but what is so delightful is that they are nonetheless fluffy and soft, not stodgy at all.
 
Livvy November 24, 2020
By blend, do you mean in a blend or just to mix thoroughly?
 
Laura P. November 24, 2020
Just mix by hand in your bowl, not in a blender or with electric mixer.
 
Marlys F. October 23, 2020
I have been making this recipe for 7 years now! It's still my go-to when making bread or rolls. Great texture, moisture, and flavor.

I let my bread maker mix and knead the dough, then move it to the fridge for the overnight rise, and in the morning form the rolls, 2nd rise and bake. For longer shelf-life, I also tried substituting 1 c of ripe 50% hydration sourdough starter for 1/2 c of the flour + 1/2 of the liquid. To do so, I mix the starter into the liquid ingredients at the bottom of the breadmaker than add the flour, salt and 1.5 tsp yeast on top. Worked great.
 
missshar August 11, 2020
Hello everyone, I know some people have commented about making these vegan but I was hoping someone could help me. My sister has an egg allergy and I was wondering if anyone's had success with turning these vegan. I figured I can used Earth Balance in place of the butter. I'm just not sure how to replace the eggs in a way that would provide similar results.
 
Ceege August 11, 2020
misshar, you can use 1 TBLS flaxseed meal mixed with 3 TBLS of water (let rest about 2 minutes) in place of one egg. I do not know how this will affect dough, but I have used this method in many recipes (including cakes). Hope this helps.
 
Biagio D. May 29, 2020
Dear Monkeymom, you are a GENIUS!! I baked these rolls a few days ago and so wonderfully delicious!!! Slightly hot with salted butter are the perfection. Thank you for sharing this recipe! All the best! Ciao ciao !
 
Ceege April 28, 2020
Oh my, I used to make these rolls all the time. For some reason I got away from baking them, so am glad for the email reminder to get out the yeast and get busy. Yum. I can taste them alread.
 
Laura P. April 28, 2020
Me, too! Thanks for the reminder, Cheri.
 
Cheri April 28, 2020
I made these rolls last night and baked them this mornjng, for supper tonight. I did cheat and pulled one of them out of the bunch and shared it while it was still warm, with my husband. He couldn't speak for a few minutes, even after he consumed the rest of his half. He just rolled his eyes towards heaven and gave a satisfied grunt that ended with "mmmmm!" They are scrumptious. Absolutely scrumptious!!! They will become a family favorite here in our household! Definately a keeper recipe. Thanks oh so much for this lovely recipe!
 
Merielle S. November 2, 2019
I now make these for Thanksgiving every year. My family is crazy about them. Definitely worth the work!
 
Alex M. June 2, 2019
These are the best rolls I have ever had. That is all.
 
bailboy February 12, 2019
These are unbelievable! I found the suggested proof times to be right on, but I had a brand new package of KA active dry yeast. These will be made many more times!.
 
Laura P. February 10, 2019
Absolutely delicious and a great flaky texture. Two comments: first, the total time should be four hours plus, not two; and second, dividing the dough into 12 makes quite large rolls - good for sandwiches but too large for dinner rolls. Next time, I’ll try making 18.
 
Lesley F. December 27, 2018
The rolls are flavorful, but the taste, lent by the molasses, is not too strong that it overpowers. My grateful family declared it one of my more successful bakes. I may try pairing them with a butternut squash soup.
 
Tampamanamy November 21, 2018
So why did the last article I read say this was a vegan recipe when it is clearly not?
Have some of you moms become so braindead you actually think just because there's no meat its vegan? Why did the last article I read have all these recipes for vegan Thanksgiving meals (that were all links to other recipes) when that's clearly misleading? Shows how much of the news is a complete lie.
 
N November 21, 2018
This is meant to be a supportive and positive community. Please refrain from offering insults to others. If it’s not something you eat, it’s easy to simply choose another recipe.
 
Rachel November 22, 2018
I had that thought too, so I went back and re-read the article about the vegan Thanksgiving menu. It says that you can make these rolls vegan by omitting the egg and substituting a vegan milk.
 
monkeymom November 22, 2018
What a bummer that food2 posted this in a vegan highlight! I am also terribly disappointed because these are NOT in any way vegan. They are full of butter so leaving out eggs will not help make it vegan.
 
Alexis December 22, 2019
The recipe isn't inherently vegan but easy to substitute. I can see how it would be frustrating for people not familiar with how to make vegan substitutes. I've made these by using a flax egg and Earth balance butter. Hope this helps.
 
Victoria November 10, 2018
Do you think these could be frozen?
 
monkeymom November 22, 2018
Yes! They can :)
 
Shawna L. February 21, 2018
These were divine! Beautiful colour and flavour from the molasses. A few notes - I thought they lacked salt but recognized my own error in using unsalted butter! Whoops. Used almond milk without a problem.
Most of my oats came flying off the top during final buttering, so not sure what I could have done to make them stick. Finally, I found myself craving honey as soon as they enemtered my mouth so I might incorporate next time...
Worth the time and effort - enjoy!
 
Anne February 12, 2018
Can you use gluten free baking flour, the one to one sort?
 
Kt4 January 6, 2019
I too would like to know if anyone has done this.
 
Laura415 November 19, 2019
I looked at the ingredients and method for this recipe. First off the recipe recommends using a higher protein flour like regular wheat flour or bread flour. As a gluten free cook I see that and know that any old gluten free flour mix may not work well. I would find or make a flour mix that has GF flours that are higher protein. This recipe is also an enriched dough with eggs, milk, butter and sugar, all of which make the dough tender and soft. I would try this recipe with higher protein GF flours and only just enough of the enriching ingredients. No matter whether you knead it or not it won't develop gluten so you are ok there. When allowing a GF bread to rise don't let it over rise and try to keep as much air in there as possible. Avoid using too much nut flour as it doesn't absorb and integrate into recipes as well as other GF flours.

Here is a link to a decent article on GF flours that may be helpful. https://tasty-yummies.com/a-guide-to-gluten-free-flours-and-starches/
Guide to protein in GF flours: https://www.healthination.com/food/high-protein-gluten-free-flours
 
Kt4 March 22, 2020
Thank you!!
 
japetty November 30, 2022
I made them using Cup4Cup flour. I thought they were somewhat dense, but tasty. They were more savory than I expected (not much molasses flavor). GF version was not good the next day.
 
Leslie June 20, 2017
Just made these for a big Iftar crowd, and they were a smash hit. Thank you so much for this! The recipe was so reliable, and I think my Egyptian friends had never tried a bread quite so American and cozy. Keep em coming!
 
Z January 27, 2017
Hello! Do you think I can add savoury ingredients to this recipe ( like cheese and olives)? I want to make a breakfast sort of bread. Thanks!
 
Christine January 27, 2017
The molasses in these rolls is fairly distinct and gives them a slightly sweet flavor, so I would be careful to make sure the whatever you add plays well with that flavor. You may want to try a Parker House roll or some other more neutral roll recipe.
 
Z January 27, 2017
Thank you so much Christine! I'll definitely try a more neutral roll 😊
 
Katherine C. November 26, 2016
Made these as directed for this Thanksgiving. With all the delicious offerings on our table this year, I think these simple rolls may have been my favorite thing. We're still working our way through leftovers and I've been trying to talk myself out of making another batch until we actually need them. I also can't wait to try this as a loaf!
 
Tony G. November 23, 2016
I have made these a few times and they are loved by all the family. I have also used the recipe in a bread maker and made a few 400g loaves - still really delicious sliced and toasted for breakfast
 
Barbara August 18, 2016
BabsT
I have had this recipe saved for at least a year and finally made them today. Awesome! These will be a family favorite.
 
Christine November 28, 2015
I made these the night before Thanksgiving as well-really easy and possibly the star of the show! I'm so glad I made a double batch for leftover turkey sandwiches.
 
Taylor S. November 27, 2015
WOW! These were the first things to go at the Thanksgiving table this year. I used blackstrap molasses which was heavenly. Also, I made the dough the night before so they came together really quickly and easily in the morning. They are so soft, so buttery, and so tender - really quite incredible.
 
Joan November 23, 2015
Christine...
I used a round pan, in fact I sell baked goods so I used one of my disposable round cake pans.
Even though you are using non stick...I don't think it would hurt to use a spray pan release.
 
Christine November 23, 2015
Can these be baked in a nonstick round cake pan?
 
Marylouise S. November 16, 2015
I made these a few times last year and while they tasted great, I was never happy with the results. The rolls were very dense. So yesterday, I let the dough rise at room temperature, not in the refrigerator. That seems to have done the trick. This batch was light, and fluffy. I also brushed the tops with a bit of olive oil, rather than melted butter and I liked that better. NOW I can make them for Thanksgiving!
 
Joan November 14, 2015
I just received the Food52 baking book and this recipe was in it.
It was the first one I tried....they are delicious.
I made 2 pans of 8 and they were still good size.
I will point out they take a little longer to rise, so don't plan them for just before dinner!
 
Michelle September 17, 2015
I just made these again, this time a double batch. I do not have a 9" round pan so the first time I made them in an 8" square pan with 9 rolls. They were obviously bigger than the 12 rolls were supposed to be. Big enough to slice and toast. Yum. So this time I made a double batch. I put 9 rolls into an 8" round pan to give as a gift and the remaining dough went into 4 mini loaf pans. Really cute little loaves of bread. Especially good toasted. The crust becomes sort of croissant buttery-flaky. Lovely with peach or apricot jam. Thank you so much, this is a terrific recipe. So easy and tasty.
 
Gregg February 9, 2015
I made these on Saturday and they were so good. We saved half to use in an asain pear bread pudding Sunday night.
 
Auntie A. November 30, 2014
I was VERY skeptical of these rolls when I was making them . . . they seemed so dense when I rolled them out and formed them into rolls and placed them into the baking pan. Imagine my very pleasant surprise when I pulled them out of the oven and they had risen and baked up beautifully! Such a great and easy and flavorful addition to the table! I will be certainly making these for future dinners.
 
T November 29, 2014
Just finished baking & offered to mom. Oh my monkeymom! Copying mom's texts because they really sum it up: Holy sh**--best ever--so good.
Practically melts. (assuming bites are taken between each text update ;)
Texture is superb.
Can you even believe it?
Thank you very much for this!
 
walkie74 November 28, 2014
Are the rolled oats just old fashioned oats, or are they instant?
 
rochelle123 November 30, 2014
I used old fashioned oats. I also used bread flour.
 
rochelle123 November 27, 2014
Just made these for Thanksgiving dinner and they were a huge hit. Very flavorful! I will definitely make these again.
 
Mika L. November 27, 2014
Should we be using regular table salt in the recipe? I'm going to assume baking is always table salt (unless indicated). If it's cooking something that isn't baking, I tend to assume kosher. Can anyone who has made this confirm 2 teaspoons salt should be table? Thanks! Looking forward to trying this in the morning.
 
monkeymom November 27, 2014
Hi! The salt I usually use is kosher salt. So, if you have it use kosher and not table salt.
 
Can I. November 26, 2014
I haven't made bread since I was in high school home ec class (yes, it was still called home ec--that's how long ago it was), but tried these because of the many great reviews. I was not disappointed. These are phenomenal and so, so easy. I tested the recipe last night/this morning for Thanksgiving and then made another batch tonight to bake in the morning--all will be devoured at the holiday feast. Thank you so much for such a great, easy, delicious recipe.
 
catalinalacruz November 9, 2014
Has anyone else made this with instant yeast? I want to try this recipe, and I think that 1 1/2 teaspoons of instant yeast is a correct substitution. I wish bread recipes would give amounts for both active dry yeast and instant yeast for those of us who don't keep both yeasts on hand..
 
anna March 28, 2015
I’m very curious, too… Anyone know? Anybody?
 
Michelle August 30, 2015
I just made these with instant yeast and they are wonderful. I thought about adding 1/4 cup water to the milk but didn't. Only needed 2 1/2 cups of the flour though. I always just substitute the same amount of instant yeast for active dry yeast. In this case 2 teaspoons. Always works fine.
 
Meagan C. September 21, 2014
Really wonderful bread recipe! Almost fool proof. I cannot wait to make this again!
 
TjNurse93 September 1, 2014
I recently found this recipe through Pinterest and it has quickly become one of my favorites. It makes a perfect 12 rolls, healthy choice and smells so good while cooking. When I have made this I used coconut oil spray instead of butter on the top, until tonight. Tonight I used the butter and I am sure it will be delicious :) I took these to work for a potluck, with chicken salad and came home with empty containers. Thanks so much for sharing this wonderful recipe with all of us! My husband thanks you too!
 
Valerie D. March 18, 2014
it was a success ! I made them vegan with crisco, 3/4 cup off apple sauce to replace the egg and almond milk and it worked beautifully !
 
Amanda March 31, 2014
I am a vegan too! Would this work with whole wheat pastry flour, do you think--I use whole wheat pastry to replace almost all my all-purpose flour needs.
 
Valerie D. April 1, 2014
I don't know... maybe it won't rise as much.. I would try just 1 cup of whole wheat.. Also, because I didn't used butter, the milk needs to be really warm so the crisco will melt and it didn't melt completely.. for the butter glaze I used maple sirup. Good luck !
 
sandra February 24, 2014
These are far and away the best rolls I have made to date! I love the subtle sweetness. They are the perfect breakfast treat. See my attempts here: http://meadowscooks.blogspot.com/2014/02/healthy-molasses-oat-breakfast-rolls.html
 
kayakgirl February 15, 2014
So, for those who are inclined to make every recipe "oh, just a little bit healthier" here is my feedback for some "healthier" alterations. This is what I did: 1. used 1/2 amt of butter. 2. substituted all molasses for the brown sugar 3. used all whole wheat. This is what came out: very tasty, but not the fluffy roll the recipe intended. Def will be enjoyed, but in the future I think I would just make this recipe as is for special occasions like Thanksgiving. Plus the advantage of the multiple, slow rises is that it is something that can be prepared well in advance for multiple dish meals like on holidays.
 
Roberta February 5, 2014
I am not using wheat so can I use almond flour instead?
 
Doris C. February 5, 2014
I am making these right now for the second time. They are super easy to make and absolutely delicious. My family polished them off very quickly. As stated in the recipe they don't really rise much at all in the fridge. They probably didn't come close to doubling with the second rise but baked up perfectly none the less. This recipe is definitely a keeper!
 
LAveny January 15, 2014
I just made these and they were wonderful. I only had to bake them for 30 minutes, and next time I might cut back on the butter, they were a little on the greasy side. Otherwise though, the texture was great, pulled apart perfectly, moist, and nice not-overly-hearty flavor. Will be a new standby without a doubt. :)
 
Ceege January 15, 2014
To those of you that "are going to try them", I highly recommend you doing so. These are delicious and easy to make. I have made them at least 10 times since first finding the recipe. I do have a question for monkeymom, the poster of this wonderful recipe. I would like to make these for a pot luck dinner I will attend in 2 weeks. Is it possible to make these delicious rolls "mini" style. (Kind of like "slider" size). If so, how many do you think a single recipe would make and how long would I need to bake the smaller size. I am sure this will be the hit of the pot luck dinner. Thanks for your help.
 
ashley December 22, 2013
What would you recommend I do to make them gluten free? Just replace the flour with gluten free flour? Thanks in advance!
 
ChefWithAKnife November 29, 2013
I made three different pans of rolls for Thanksgiving this year, These, homemade Hawaiian rolls and regular homemade yeast rolls. Guess which ones went first? Lol.
 
enbe November 29, 2013
These worked great (did the first rise overnight in the fridge). Quite sweet but perfect for thanksgiving. Thanks!
 
Michelle November 27, 2013
I am gonna try doing the first rise on the counter and the second rise in the fridge. We'll see what happens. At least I know the yeast is good... bloomed like crazy.
 
Michelle November 27, 2013
Can these do the final rise in the fridge? Would like to get them ready and then pop them in the oven tomorrow.
 
Betty November 18, 2013
I can't wait to try these rolls!! I'm going to give them a try for Thanksgiving. My grandmother used to make a roll that rested in the fridge all night - they were the best. I'd be really interested in trying the potato roll recipe you mentioned too!! Thank you for posting this!!
 
Diane November 18, 2013
Nice taste, had a few problems that maybe some other members can help me out with. Like a previous poster, I didn't get that lovely deep coffee color like the picture, they came out a bit tan. I also got almost no lift during the second rise. After about 3 hours it increased by perhaps 25%. (Brand new yeast that made a perfect baguette the day before, dough proofed in my oven, oven light on, check, check, check… :) ) I baked them anyways, the taste was wonderful, the texture just too heavy and dense. I discovered after I made them that I used blackstrap molasses, instead of regular molasses. Could two tablespoons of either/or effect the final bread so deeply? Any insight would be very much appreciated!
 
RB November 15, 2013
Can I make these ahead and freeze them?
 
Angel November 16, 2013
I have, because I always have more dough than my pan can fit. As long as you thaw it out and let it rise a bit you're ok.

That being said- I don't know if they have risen as much as the original batch.
 
Tiffany L. November 8, 2013
Thank you CWaK! After making them once, I knew they'd become my "go to" roll recipe too. I was just too lazy to make them last night and am worried the all-night rise in the fridge was key to flavor development.
 
ChefWithAKnife November 8, 2013
Tiffany they really do taste better if rested overnight in the fridge. But if you're pressed for time, just let them set on the counter and they will be fine. If you are interested, I have an amazing ice box potato roll recipe. You make the dough and it sits in the fridge. You just take out what you need, form it into rolls, let it rise and bake it. It's really great and you can always have hot fresh bread. It lasts for at least a week. But if you are like me, it won't last that long.
 
Athena1169 November 17, 2014
Hi! I am wondering if you ever posted your recipe for ice box potato rolls? My husband really loves potato bread & I'd love to surprise him with potato rolls, but I haven't always had the best luck with baking bread. I'm hoping your recipe is as easy as it sounds...
 
Tiffany L. November 7, 2013
Well, add me to the fan club, I love these. Are they as good if made and baked the same day? Like, make in the morning and have for dinner?
 
ChefWithAKnife November 8, 2013
Tiffany I can tell you for a fact that you can make and bake them early in the day, and they will be perfect for for dinner. If they last that long. I will usually gobble down half of the pan by then. Lol. But they stay really fresh and moist for a couple of days. But I'm not kidding, they don't last that long because you will eat them all very quickly. They are SO delicious. I make these at least 3 times a month. They are so good with a Sunday pot roast, roast chicken or just about anything for that matter. They make amazing little sandwiches with some good ham, swiss cheese and dijion mustard. This has become my go to roll recipe, and I really don't care for whole wheat bread. I can't stop ranting and raving about them. MAKE THEM. You will not be sorry.
 
ChefWithAKnife November 8, 2013
Tiffany I forgot to add, I use one cup of whole wheat flour. So one cup of whole wheat and one and a half or so all purpose flour. It comes out really nice. I also sprinkle them with kosher salt after topping them with the oatmeal. Adds a nice sparkle, crunch and flavour to them. Enjoy!
 
Tiffany L. November 18, 2013
Madame CWaK, sorry for the late reply. Yes, I would love your potato roll recipe AND any other good ones you have. Thanks for all the input!
 
jonilynn November 4, 2013
Forgive me if someone asked this already-- has anyone tried substituting Barley Malt Syrup for the molasses?
 
monkeymom November 4, 2013
Hi. I haven't in this recipe but have used Barley Malt Syrup for other baking. The Barley Malt Syrup is milder than the molasses. The rolls will still turn out delicious, they will just lack a bit of the depth the molasses gives.
 
Chocolate C. September 17, 2013
Made these delicious rolls yesterday. They were the perfect combination for my slow cooker Boston Baked Beans. Prep time worked well together, as I let the dough overnight in fridge while beans soaked. Baked them in a glass pie pan and they had a wonderful rise and spectacular color. Followed the recipe exactly, but will try the whole wheat flour combo next. This is an AWESOME recipe; delicious with beautiful texture, simple, and a family pleaser.
 
Amirah H. July 18, 2013
So difficult to find molasses where I'm from :( Any form of replacement?
 
Asaracoglu April 25, 2014
Do you have grape syrup? We don't have molasses where I am either, so I used grape syrup (pekmez). The rolls were fabulous!
 
Green R. April 2, 2013
This is going to be a delightful addition to our after Passover meal tonight!
 
ChefWithAKnife April 2, 2013
Make them. They are so awesome. You don't have to deviate from the recipe. It's pretty much perfect the way it is.
 
littlesister April 1, 2013
I made these last night to go with my Easter dinner and they were awesome. They reminded me of the yeast rolls I used to eat as a child - so good! And I can't wait to eat them with my leftover ham! I'll make these again.
 
ChefWithAKnife March 23, 2013
I now make these at least twice a week. I make them with half whole wheat flour. These are SO delicious! Thank you so much for a new recipe!!!!
 
PritiA March 21, 2013
This recipe looks yummy. Can I replace the egg with something else? Thank you.
 
monkeymom March 22, 2013
Hi there. You can leave the egg out. The bread will be less rich but still be good!
 
Ceege March 21, 2013
Since I found this recipe, I have made it many many times. The texture of these rolls are great and the taste is wonderful. I substitute one cup of whole wheat flour for some of the white AND I always use bread flour for the remaining flour. They are simple to make and I keep a bag in my freezer - just pull out one or two at a time, cut in half and run under the broiler for a minute or two. (Great this way for breakfast). Also, for a GREAT topping, mix 1/2 cup butter (no oleo) and 1/2 cup good honey. Have both ingredients at room temp. before mixing. This is one of the best honey butters that I have ever tasted. Anyone out there debating about making the rolls, I would say, get out the stuff and start baking them today. You won't be sorry. (P.S. After the first time, I decided to eliminate the oatmeal that goes on top of rolls as they just tend to fall off and make a mess of your dinner table)
 
Margaux M. January 25, 2013
Fantastic bread-- I've made it twice in the same week. Both times I've replaced about half the flour with whole wheat flour-- recipe is still delicious and palatable to my non-whole wheat friends. Highly recommend.
 
Saccharine April 10, 2012
Made this for my house-warming party the other day and all my guests love it! It's so easy to make (with the help of my kitchenaid of course!) and the rolls are so soft! Will definitely make it again and maybe a spiced version:)
 
SaucySabrina March 8, 2012
Delicious! Love the texture of oatmeal and the depth of molasses.
 
pulcinella #. January 22, 2012
Mine looked exactly like the photo. Could you have cooked them a little longer to make sure they brown on top? I especially love the texture of these rolls and the way they pull apart.
 
Shannon829 January 22, 2012
I made these rolls that othe day. The flavor was good however the color of the rolls were very disappointing. The rolls came out very pale, just a hint of brown, not like the picture at all. I did brush the rolls with butter and made sure the oven temp was accurate. Thoughts as to why??? Did you also put an eggwash on top?
 
monkeymom January 23, 2012
Hi there. I do not put an egg wash on top. DIfferent types of molasses might affect how dark the dough is. I generally use Grandma's, which results in a dough about the color that is in the slideshow. The only problem I have with how the rolls turn out is when I've baked them in an aluminum pan....it never gets hot enough. So I generally do it in a dark heavy pan or a glass dish. If you like more molasses flavor you could also try 3Tbsp of molasses and reduce the brown sugar.
 
Brenzo December 10, 2011
Thanks! Mine came out a bit heavy, but I really enjoyed the flavors. Can't wait to try again.
 
sygyzy December 5, 2011
Is there any way to pre-make this and bake the next day? At which part would you refrigerate the dough? I am guessing before it proofs; the cold will stop it. Yes?
 
monkeymom December 6, 2011
Hi sygyzy. You can leave the dough in the refrigerator overnight then shape and rise the rolls the next day and bake. The interesting thing about this recipe is that the bread proofs just fine in the fridge whether it is for a couple of hours or overnight. It doesn't rise a lot but the final product is still light.
 
pamelalee November 13, 2011
For over 30 years I've been trying to make the perfect yeast roll. I knew it wasn't just about finding the perfect recipe because my mother-in-law's potato rolls were flakey and tender every time she baked them, but I could never achieve the same results. This afternoon I tried your recipe, and as soon as I pulled a roll apart and saw the shred-y texture and then tasted the buttery flavor, I knew my search was over. Thank you for an amazingly easy and delicious recipe!
 
monkeymom November 14, 2011
I'm so happy that you liked them! Thank you for letting me know.
 
mcs3000 July 11, 2011
I finally made these Friday morning before work - aaa-mazing. The dough came together beautifully. Can't wait to make them again. Thank you!
 
Tashie April 4, 2011
i just made these with 1.5 cup of KAF white whole wheat and 1 cup AP flour. it worked great. i love how rolling them turns them into little rolls that can be pulled apart. very satisfying.
 
cheese1227 April 2, 2011
Everyone who comes in contact with these simply just raves.
 
Kitchen B. March 24, 2011
I made these....took them in to the office to rave reviews. I loved learning to make soft bread rolls - something I haven't done before, so thank you!
 
pulcinella #. February 27, 2011
My husband is the bread baker in the house, and since these rolls do plenty of rising we had time for a wintry walk on the icy shore of Lake Michigan today. These rolls were a real treat, much better than any restaurant rolls I've ever eaten!

Did anyone else have to let these rise and bake in TWO 9" baking pans?
 
monkeymom February 28, 2011
Hi there. I often now make 16-20 rolls in a rectangular pan that is probably about 9x11 inches. It depends on how many folks will be eating whether I make the smaller rolls or the larger. So glad you like them and thanks for letting me know!
 
hobbybaker February 9, 2011
I made these rolls this weekend and LOVED them! Thanks for a delicious recipe!
 
monkeymom February 28, 2011
Happy they turned out well hobbybaker! Thank you for your lovely comment.
 
monkeymom February 9, 2011
Ha! I'm so glad you tried making it yourself! I was going to make it for you next time we had you over. I'll have to plan something else instead :)
 
bigmouthtofeed February 8, 2011
These were AWESOME!! Thanks for making my first attempt at yeast bread so rewarding!
 
thirschfeld January 30, 2011
I bow to the dinner roll goddess and the only words that fit, " effing unbelievably wonderful" words I once heard Daniel Patterson say to Grant Achatz. Amazing. They are that good. Thank you.
 
monkeymom January 31, 2011
Wow, I am so happy that you enjoyed them! I'm glad to give back to the man who gave us the sugar cookie that is like crack...I'm jonesing for some now!
 
thirschfeld January 30, 2011
I am making these tonight to go with Sunday dinner. I am excited and can't wait till they are done.
 
drbabs January 12, 2011
Monkeymom, I made these today--we had a snow day--with white whole wheat flour. They were AMAZING. And so easy!! Thank you for such a great recipe!
 
monkeymom January 13, 2011
I'm so glad you liked them drb! Thanks for letting me know. I have to say that I long for apples in my gingerbread ever since I tried your ginger apple torte.
 
nhou89 January 9, 2011
These healthy - looking bread tasted "heavenly" and I have just baked and shared with a group of friends/relatives tonight. Congratulations to your winning.
 
monkeymom January 13, 2011
Thank you!
 
TiggyBee January 6, 2011
Just now seeing this!! Big heartfelt congrats on these great rolls!!
 
monkeymom January 8, 2011
Thanks so much TiggyBee! Happy new year to you!
 
Midge January 3, 2011
Belated congrats monkeymom, your rolls look glorious. James Beard's oatmeal molasses bread was the first loaf I ever made (well, the first edible loaf). Look forward to trying these.
 
monkeymom January 8, 2011
Thanks Midge! That bread is really great, isn't it?
 
beyondcelery January 2, 2011
These are really incredible! I'm gluten-free, so I wasn't able to try your original recipe, but I made up my own involving your main ideas. Wow. Excellent flavors!
 
monkeymom January 3, 2011
So glad to hear that! Maybe you could post your version for other folks interested in the GF version? A GF dinner roll would probably be very popular. Happy New Year!
 
beyondcelery January 8, 2011
I've posted my version of the recipe on my blog here:
http://beyondcelery.blogspot.com/

Enjoy!
 
Daphne January 1, 2011
Wow! This is so cool! Great recipe and congrats monkeymom! Happy New Year too!
 
monkeymom January 3, 2011
Thank you so much Daphne! I made those cupcakes and they were so good, by the way. Happy New Year!
 
lapadia January 1, 2011
Happy New Year, monkeymom! I made your rolls (somewhere I posted that I was going to, can't find where that is) anyway, I made them in a large pyrex - 15 rolls, came out rounded slider size. This is a great recipe..."heavenly" is a great name, because that is what they are and I love the taste of the molasses...congratulations on becoming a winning baker here on Food52!!!
 
monkeymom January 3, 2011
Happy New Year to you lapadia! So glad the rolls lived up to their name and thank you so much for you good wishes!
 
Sagegreen December 29, 2010
Congrats, monkeymom. You were up against another great recipe, too! I look forward to trying these. Love the oatmeal.
 
monkeymom January 1, 2011
I agree completely! So many great roll recipes for every taste, I feel very fortunate indeed. Happy new year to you!
 
mrslarkin December 29, 2010
Yahoooooo monkeymom! Such a great recipe! I can't wait to try it.
 
monkeymom January 1, 2011
You are the best mrsl! Thank you!
 
Kitchen B. December 29, 2010
Congrats monkeymom...................I need to get a breadbaking. Have a blessed yea end 2010 and a superb 2011
 
monkeymom January 1, 2011
Back at you KB! I look forward to more of your lovely recipes and photos!
 
Kayb December 29, 2010
Congrats, Monkeymom! I have an urge to bake this weekend -- these may be "it"!
 
monkeymom January 1, 2011
Hope all goes well this weekend with your baking! Happy New Year!
 
TheWimpyVegetarian December 29, 2010
Many many congrats, monkeymom!! You are now officially a great baker. I tried these rolls over the holidays and they were just fabulous - and so easy to make. We'll be making these on a regular basis!! Really happy for you! Happy New Year!
 
monkeymom January 1, 2011
Thank you so much ChezSuzanne! I'm so happy you like them. I definitely think of you as a great baker...I have yet to take on ciabatta!
 
aargersi December 29, 2010
WooHoo! No denying it - you are a bread baker now! Big congrats to you and you your mentor AJ!!!!
 
lapadia December 29, 2010
Agree 100% with aargersi! Congrats and Happy New Year...
 
gingerroot December 29, 2010
Woo-hoo! Congrats, monkeymom, I am so thrilled for you that these won! Happy New Year...I can't wait to try these.
 
onetribegourmet December 29, 2010
Congratulations!!!
 
monkeymom December 29, 2010
Thanks! Big congrats to you too!
 
hardlikearmour December 29, 2010
Way to go monkeymom! AJ should be proud, too, since she was your bread-baking inspiration. It's almost like you both win!
 
monkeymom December 29, 2010
I very much do hope so! It is what I love about food52, learning from one another.
 
TasteFood December 29, 2010
Congratulations, monkeymom. What a great way to kick off the new year!
 
monkeymom December 29, 2010
Indeed, thanks so much TF!
 
Stephanie B. December 29, 2010
Congrats! Glad to have helped point you to your inspiration, albeit in a roundabout way.
 
monkeymom December 29, 2010
Can't go wrong with James Beard as an inspiration, right? Thanks for yours too!
 
Lizthechef December 29, 2010
Congrats and looking forward to seeing you in the New Year - miss my Bay Area foodie pals!
 
monkeymom December 29, 2010
Can't wait to see you again Liz!
 
nannydeb December 29, 2010
Congratulations monkeymom!
 
monkeymom December 29, 2010
Thanks so much nannydeb!
 
cheese1227 December 29, 2010
Congrats!
 
monkeymom December 29, 2010
Thanks cheese!
 
Angel December 28, 2010
There's good, and then there's "OMG DON'T LOSE THIS RECIPE" Good.
This recipe is amazing. My husband who is complimentary, but never overy complimentary couldn't stop raving about this bread.

Thank you for sharing. We loved it!
 
monkeymom December 29, 2010
I'm so so glad you and your husband loved it! Good thing food52 is always here to find it!
 
Waverly December 28, 2010
Your rolls were a big hit. I have made bread a few times but never refrigerator rolls. Your recipe was easy to follow especially after viewing Amanda and Merrill's video. Thank you!
 
monkeymom December 28, 2010
I'm so glad to hear they worked well! I love the videos, they are really helpful and fun to watch. Thanks for letting me know!
 
Waverly December 29, 2010
AND, congratulations on your win!
 
kaykay December 26, 2010
Yeah! Congratulations. These were so delicious. How lucky am I that we live so close to each other that I get to try many of your new creations right out of the oven?!! You can't ever move out of the neighborhood.
 
monkeymom December 28, 2010
Ditto to you! Thanks for taking care of our fish!
 
J. A. December 26, 2010
I love lots of butter in rolls... Yummy!
 
monkeymom December 26, 2010
These were semi-inspiried by super buttery rolls at a restaurant called Canteen in SF. They have the ultimate buttery rolls!
 
Waverly December 24, 2010
Congratulations on being a finalist. These rolls sound so good! I have saved them and look forward to making them.
 
monkeymom December 26, 2010
thanks so much Waverly!
 
wssmom December 24, 2010
I cannot wait to make these for Chistmas dinner!!
 
monkeymom December 26, 2010
Hope these were good wssmom! We had them Christmas eve!
 
Lucy L. December 23, 2010
The healthiest and "good" rolls that I have ever made and tasted! Thanks.
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
Thank you Lucy!
 
La P. December 23, 2010
I made these a couple days ago and they are wonderful! My husband ate them all...I'm kinda mad at him right now.
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
This is one of the best compliments I've ever gotten. Thank you!!
 
thirschfeld December 23, 2010
Congratulations! Told ya.
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
:) You sure did. It is humbling...your rolls are true beauties. Heck, all your recipes are amazing. I remember you posting a headnote when you mentioned "hot rolls in the oven" and I've often thought of that image when making bread for the family.
 
TasteFood December 23, 2010
Congratulations, monkeymom! These look fabulous and easy - a perfect combination.
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
Indeed, TasteFood, very easy. Thanks!
 
katiebakes December 23, 2010
These look delicious!
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
Thanks so much katiebakes!
 
lapadia December 23, 2010
Right on, monkeymom...and congrats on the EP, too!
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
Happy Birthday to you lapadia! I hope you had a great day!
 
fiveandspice December 23, 2010
I've had my eye on these beauties for a while, they look fabulous. Congrats!
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
Thanks fiveandspice! It is so cool to see Sarah's picture of them!
 
hardlikearmour December 23, 2010
Congrats, monkeymom! These rolls are definitely mouthwatering to look at, and I bet they smell and taste even better.
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
Thanks! I really thought your caramelized shallot rolls looked amazing.
 
gingerroot December 23, 2010
Yipee! I am so thrilled for you, monkeymom! Congrats on the EP and for being a finalist...I had a feeling about these beautiful rolls. I can't wait to try them.
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
Thanks for the good wishes gingerroot!
 
melissav December 23, 2010
WooHoo Monkeymom. These look amazing.
 
monkeymom December 24, 2010
Thanks so much melissav!
 
Sagegreen December 23, 2010
Congrats on being a finalist! Yay!
 
monkeymom December 23, 2010
Sagegreen, thank you for your lovely encouragement!
 
AntoniaJames December 23, 2010
Congrats, monkeymom! I'm pleased beyond words to know that I had something to do with your wanting to learn to bake bread! (And would this ever have happened if we hadn't met at the first-ever-anywhere food52 potluck??!) My boys love this flavor combo, which I've never put into rolls, so I am really looking forward to making these soon. I bet they'd be really tasty with a hearty winter soup that's been splashed generously with a nice vinegar. Mmmmm. I can taste them now. ;o)
 
monkeymom December 23, 2010
AJ, thank you! These definitely would not have been possible without you! Your soup was the 1st recipe on food52 that I tried and your bread was one of my first successes with bread. I am very happy to share this week with you!
 
mrslarkin December 23, 2010
Yippeee, monkeymom!! These are on the "must try" list! Congrats and good luck!
 
monkeymom December 23, 2010
thanks so much mrsl! I just loved the look of your crusty peasant rolls, I can't wait to try them too!
 
drbabs December 23, 2010
Woo-hoo! Congratulations, monkeymom! I can't wait to make these!
 
monkeymom December 23, 2010
thank you drb! It is very thrilling!
 
Soozll December 23, 2010
My husbands late Aunt used to make a very similar roll, they were so delicious. I tried to get the recipe from her, but she was one of those bakers that bakes by her senses and I had no access to her to watch/learn at her side. So glad you entered these and congrats on being chosen! Can't wait to make them.
 
monkeymom December 23, 2010
Thank you so much soozll! I do hope they come close to what you remember (though that is often so hard to achieve)!
 
arielleclementine December 23, 2010
congratulations on being a finalist! these look super-terrific!
 
monkeymom December 23, 2010
thank you dear friend!
 
thirschfeld December 15, 2010
and the winner is. Wonderful rolls and I am glad you where inspired by AJ to start making bread. I am guessing these get gobbled up pretty quickly by the little ones.
 
monkeymom December 15, 2010
thanks so much. It has been a tough negative week so I so appreciate your kind words. Lots of wonderful rolls this week, I'm totally in awe of my food52 comrades!
 
TheWimpyVegetarian December 14, 2010
I haven't had a chance to be on food52 the last few days, so am just now catching up on the breads. These look just amazing, mm. I love how they sound, and your pictures are beautiful. I want to climb inside them and eat all the bread up!!
 
monkeymom December 14, 2010
Thanks CS! I've been eating the leftovers warmed slightly in the microwave. So great on these dreary days, they are like a cozy blanket!
 
cowgirlculture December 14, 2010
These look delish! So perfect and such a wonderful photo! I just joined hoping to branch out in my cooking skills and this is a very inspiring post! Have a great day!
 
monkeymom December 14, 2010
I'm so happy to hear that! They really are not difficult to make, I hope you try them.
 
lapadia December 14, 2010
These are great looking, monkeymom, and your right...butter is heavenly!
 
monkeymom December 14, 2010
yay to butter!
 
TiggyBee December 14, 2010
I just love this! I've been struggling with my rolls this week, trying to get that tricky yeast right! I'm definitely learning so much from everyone that's posted a recipe. Thanks monkeymom!!
 
monkeymom December 14, 2010
Tiggy, I love you! Thanks for the encouragement! I'm learning a ton too!
 
TiggyBee December 14, 2010
I love you back!! xox!! I so appreciate this great community of people here!
 
mrslarkin December 13, 2010
Wow. these look fantastic! Love the pics too. Very helpful to see the process.
 
monkeymom December 14, 2010
Thanks mrslarkin! I have been doing a lot of reading on the Fresh Loaf this year and I'm very visual. The pictures really help me tool
 
mrslarkin December 14, 2010
hmmmm...what's the Fresh Loaf?? I feel like I need this information!
 
monkeymom December 14, 2010
oh wow, it is a great website portal to amateur bread making! People have their own bread blogs and beautiful pictures of all types of bread. Really informative, a total nerdy (in a great way) site. http://www.thefreshloaf.com/
 
mrslarkin December 14, 2010
oh, my, I could totally see this turning into another addiction.. :) thanks for the link!
 
Daphne December 13, 2010
These look incredible, monkeymom, such a beautiful color. A teaspoon or two of molasses in the afternoon is often my pick me up!
 
monkeymom December 14, 2010
what a cool trick Daphne! I'll have to try it. With all the gingerbread around the holidays I'm seriously craving molasses...
 
Daphne December 14, 2010
Yeah, well this week it's been Tartine's glazed soft gingerbread tiles and Karen DeMasco's gingerbread cupcakes, just love molasses!
 
monkeymom December 14, 2010
oh, I so love everything at Tartine. Those tiles are so lovely. I'll have to try those cupcakes now for sure!
 
Daphne December 14, 2010
The cupcakes have guinness stout beer and cocoa powder, plus coffee in the icing. If you try them lets compare notes on the icing... it looks so pretty in the picture of her book, The Craft of Baking.
 
hardlikearmour December 13, 2010
yum, yum, yum....my stomach just grumbled looking at these!
 
monkeymom December 14, 2010
all these beautiful dinner roll entries give me a serious carb craving...I'm a sucker for bready things!
 
Lizthechef December 13, 2010
You inspire me - I think of you as a great baker. Had no idea you had been a novice when we were all in our previous lives pre-food52 ;)
 
monkeymom December 13, 2010
I'm so glad to hear from you Liz! thanks so much for the encouragement, I'm truly always inspired by the food52 community. It goes to show that we all start the journey somewhere and can enjoy a lot of good bread along the way!
 
drbabs December 13, 2010
Wow, I can smell these baking.
 
monkeymom December 13, 2010
thank you drb! that butter-y smell is so good...
 
gingerroot December 13, 2010
These rolls look amazing, monkeymom!
 
monkeymom December 13, 2010
thanks so much gingerroot!