Fluffy Potato Rolls

Fluffy potato rolls are an irresistibly soft and tender bread roll made with mashed potatoes, giving them a pillowy texture and subtle richness. Whether served warm with butter, used as slider buns, or as a dinner side, these rolls are always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These potato rolls are so light and fluffy, they practically melt in your mouth. Here’s why they deserve a place in your baking rotation:

• Soft and tender thanks to mashed potatoes
• Perfect balance of sweetness and savory
• Stay fresh and soft for days
• Ideal for dinners, sandwiches, or holiday meals
• Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved
• Kid-friendly and versatile

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Active dry yeast
• Warm water
• Warm milk
• Mashed potatoes (plain, unseasoned)
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Egg
• All-purpose flour
• Melted butter (for brushing)

directions

this recipe

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
2. Mix in the warm milk, mashed potatoes, softened butter, sugar, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the egg and stir again.
4. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms that pulls away from the sides.
5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
7. Punch down the dough and divide into 24 equal portions. Shape each into a ball and place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Cover and let rise again until puffy, about 30–60 minutes.
9. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake rolls for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Brush warm rolls with melted butter and serve.

Servings and timing

Makes approximately 24 rolls.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rise time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Bake time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: About 2.5 hours

Variations

• Whole wheat version: Substitute up to 50% of the flour with whole wheat flour.
• Garlic herb rolls: Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs to the dough.
• Cheese-stuffed: Insert a cube of cheddar or mozzarella into the center of each dough ball before baking.
• Sweet version: Add a touch more sugar and cinnamon for a breakfast-style roll.

storage/reheating

Store rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or wrap in foil and reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
Freeze baked rolls in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make potato rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and shape the rolls the next day. Let them rise again before baking.

Do I need to peel the potatoes before mashing?

Yes, use peeled, plain mashed potatoes with no butter or seasonings for best results.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Fresh mashed potatoes are preferred, but unseasoned instant mashed potatoes can work in a pinch.

Why are my rolls dense instead of fluffy?

This can happen from adding too much flour or under-kneading. Make sure your dough is soft and elastic.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg substitute.

Are these good for sandwiches?

Absolutely! Their soft texture makes them perfect for sliders or mini sandwich buns.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped rolls before the second rise. Thaw and let them rise before baking.

How can I tell when the rolls are done?

They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes work and will add a slightly different flavor and color.

Do I need a stand mixer?

No, you can knead the dough by hand—it just takes a bit more time and elbow grease.

Conclusion

Fluffy potato rolls are the ultimate comfort food, with a soft, buttery texture that complements any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast, packing them into lunchboxes, or just enjoying one fresh out of the oven, these rolls never disappoint. Try them once, and they’ll become a staple in your baking routine.

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