Wonder Bread's iconic soft white bread has been a pantry staple for generations. But did you know that its unique texture lends itself beautifully to creating incredibly soft and fluffy dinner rolls? This guide delves into the art of making Wonder Brown and Serve dinner rolls, exploring techniques to achieve that perfect, pillowy texture and golden-brown crust.
Understanding the Wonder Bread Advantage
Wonder Bread's distinctive airy crumb structure, achieved through a unique baking process, is the secret weapon behind these exceptional rolls. The slightly sweet flavor profile also complements both sweet and savory dishes, making them a versatile addition to any meal. While you can certainly adapt this recipe to other bread types, Wonder Bread provides a superior outcome.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 loaf Wonder Bread, torn into small pieces (about 16 oz)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (helps achieve lightness)
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
1. Preparing the Wonder Bread:
The key to success lies in properly preparing the Wonder Bread. Tear the bread into small, roughly 1-inch pieces. Avoid using a food processor, as this can result in a gummy texture. The goal is to create a slightly irregular consistency.
2. Combining the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the torn Wonder Bread pieces, milk, melted butter, egg, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the bread pieces are moistened. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. This step is crucial for creating a soft and cohesive dough.
3. Shaping the Rolls:
Once the bread mixture has rested, gently shape it into 8-12 rolls, depending on your desired size. You can use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to create uniform rolls. Place the rolls onto a greased baking sheet or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Baking to Golden Perfection:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
5. Achieving that Perfect Crust:
For an extra crispy crust, brush the rolls with a little extra melted butter during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will also enhance their flavor and give them a beautiful shine.
6. Serving and Enjoying:
Serve the Wonder Brown and Serve dinner rolls warm, ideally straight from the oven. They pair perfectly with soups, stews, main courses, and even desserts.
Tips for Baking Success:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough rolls. Gentle mixing is key.
- Proper resting time: Allow the bread mixture to rest for the full 10-15 minutes to ensure proper absorption of liquid.
- Oven temperature: Maintain the correct oven temperature throughout the baking process for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: Tap the bottom of a roll to check for hollowness – this indicates they're cooked through.
Variations and Enhancements:
- Garlic and Herb Rolls: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (such as Italian seasoning or oregano) to the dough for a savory twist.
- Sweet Rolls: Increase the sugar to 2 teaspoons and add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon for a sweeter, more aromatic roll.
- Glazed Rolls: Brush the baked rolls with a simple glaze made from melted butter and honey or powdered sugar.
With a little practice, you'll master the art of making these incredibly soft and flavorful Wonder Brown and Serve dinner rolls. They're sure to become a family favorite!
