Soft Sweet Potato Parker House Rolls for a Southern Touch

What kind of recipe is it?

Soft Sweet Potato Parker House Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic Parker House rolls, combining the rich flavors of sweet potatoes with the fluffy texture of freshly baked bread.

These rolls are characterized by their tender, buttery layers and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Perfect for gatherings, holiday dinners, or any special occasion, this recipe is aimed at home cooks looking to impress their family and friends with a comforting, homemade touch.

Enjoy these rolls warm, straight from the oven!

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Sweet potatoes	1 cup (mashed, about 1 medium sweet potato)
All-purpose flour	4 to 4 ½ cups
Milk	½ cup (warm, about 110°F)
Sugar	¼ cup
Active dry yeast	2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet)
Unsalted butter	¼ cup (melted) + extra for brushing
Egg	1 large
Salt	1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon	¼ teaspoon (optional, for added flavor)
Ground nutmeg	¼ teaspoon (optional, for added flavor)

Make certain to prepare each ingredient in advance to guarantee a smooth cooking process. Enjoy baking!

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and position the rack in the center. Prepare a baking sheet (about 30 x 40 cm / 12 x 16 in) by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with unsalted butter.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mashed sweet potatoes with ½ cup warm milk (approximately 43°C / 110°F). Mix until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (if using) until well blended.
Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the sweet potato mixture, along with ¼ cup melted unsalted butter and 1 large egg. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a rough dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add additional flour, up to ½ cup, as needed.
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size. A good cue for doneness is the dough should feel airy and spring back when gently pressed.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (about 70-80 g each). Shape each piece into a ball and place the rolls onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
Cover the rolls loosely with a towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until they’ve puffed up and touch each other.
After the second rise, brush the tops of the rolls with additional melted unsalted butter. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for about 5-10 minutes before serving. The rolls should have a soft crust and an aromatic sweetness.

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Variations

Herb-Infused Rolls: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the flour mixture for an aromatic herb twist.
Cheddar and Chive Rolls: Incorporate 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese and ¼ cup (15 g) finely chopped fresh chives into the dough for a savory flavor.
Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Rolls: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use 1 tablespoon (10 g) of xanthan gum for structure.
Vegan Sweet Potato Rolls: Replace the egg with ¼ cup (60 ml) unsweetened applesauce and use plant-based milk and butter for a completely vegan version.

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Tips on plating and presentation

While it’s tempting to focus solely on the flavor of your Soft Sweet Potato Parker House Rolls, don’t underestimate the power of presentation.

I love arranging the rolls on a beautiful platter, garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt.

Adding a touch of color with seasonal fruits or roasted veggies elevates the entire table, inviting everyone to dig in.

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

To truly enhance your dining experience, I suggest pairing Soft Sweet Potato Parker House Rolls with robust flavors that complement their subtle sweetness.

They go wonderfully alongside savory dishes like honey-glazed ham, roasted chicken, or a hearty gumbo.

You might even try them with a creamy mushroom soup for a cozy meal.

Trust me, these rolls elevate any table setting beautifully!

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What drinks can I pair it with?

What drinks can elevate your experience with Soft Sweet Potato Parker House Rolls?

I find that a lightly sweet iced tea perfectly complements the rolls’ flavor.

Alternatively, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the rich sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

If you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic, try a sparkling apple cider; it adds a revitalizing zing that balances the rolls beautifully.

Enjoy experimenting!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes Instead of Fresh Ones?

Absolutely, I’ve used canned sweet potatoes before and they work well! Just make sure to drain them properly and adjust the sweetness if needed. It’s a convenient option that I find quite effective.

How Do I Store Leftover Parker House Rolls?

I store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, I recommend freezing them for up to three months. Just reheat before enjoying!

What Is the History of Parker House Rolls?

Parker House rolls date back to the 1800s in Boston, created at the Parker House Hotel. Their soft, buttery texture quickly won over diners, becoming a beloved staple in American cuisine and holiday meals.

Can I Freeze the Dough Before Baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. I usually let it rise, then shape it, wrap tightly, and store in the freezer. Just thaw and let it rise again when you’re ready to bake!

How Long Do These Rolls Keep After Baking?

These rolls typically keep fresh for about three days at room temperature. I store them in an airtight container. If I want them longer, I’ll freeze them to preserve their deliciousness!