The first time I made Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls, my kitchen felt like a warm embrace. It was a chilly fall evening, and I wanted something comforting to go with my soup. The sweet aroma of baked sweet potatoes wafted through the air, mingling with the nutty scent of whole wheat flour. As I kneaded the dough, I could feel the warmth of the ingredients coming together, and I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of sharing these rolls with my family. Freshly baked, with a light golden crust and a soft, fluffy interior, these rolls quickly became a staple at our dinner table, especially during Thanksgiving.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Paleo, AIP

Fat:
4 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Mixing Bowl, Peeler

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet potatoes and honey in these rolls. They not only provide a subtle sweetness but also a beautiful color and moisture that makes the rolls irresistible. Each bite is a perfect blend of flavors, and I love how they pair beautifully with savory dishes. Whether you’re having a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls elevate any meal. They can be enjoyed warm, slathered with butter, or even as a base for sandwiches the next day. Prepare to impress your guests with these beautiful rolls that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat!

Why This Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls Is a Winner

Unique Flavor Profile

What makes Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls stand out is the delightful flavor combination of sweet potatoes and honey. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes adds a depth that regular rolls often lack, while the honey enhances this sweetness, making each roll a treat.

Perfectly Soft Texture

Thanks to the sweet potato and the precise mixing method, these rolls come out soft and fluffy every time. They’re pillowy and tender, perfect for tearing apart and enjoying fresh from the oven.

Healthy Ingredients

Using whole wheat flour in addition to all-purpose flour not only adds a nutty flavor but also increases the nutritional value of these rolls. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and make for a great addition to your diet.

Versatile Serving Options

These rolls are incredibly versatile! They can accompany a warm bowl of soup, be served at a holiday feast, or even used for making sandwiches. They adapt to many occasions, making them an ideal recipe to master.

Easy to Make

The beauty of Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls lies in its simplicity. Even if you’re a beginner, you can follow the steps to achieve bakery-quality rolls right from your home kitchen.

What’s In This Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls

When it comes to the ingredients in these rolls, each one plays a significant role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The sweet potatoes are the star, contributing moisture and a hint of sweetness. The combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour provides structure and nutrition. The addition of honey not only sweetens but also enhances the overall flavor profile, while the butter and milk add richness.

All-Purpose Flour: (2½ to 2¾ cups or 313 to 344 grams) This flour provides the necessary structure for the rolls.
Whole Wheat Flour: (1 cup or 125 grams) It adds a nutty flavor and increases the health benefits of the rolls.
Instant Yeast: (2¼ teaspoons or 7 grams) This is the leavening agent that helps the rolls rise.
Kosher Salt: (2 teaspoons or 6 grams) This enhances the flavor of the rolls.
Mashed Baked Sweet Potato: (¾ cup or 183 grams) Adds moisture and sweetness.
Whole Milk: (½ cup or 120 grams) This contributes to the softness of the dough.
Unsalted Butter: (¼ cup or 57 grams) Adds richness and a tender crumb.
Honey: (¼ cup or 85 grams) Sweetens the dough and gives a lovely flavor.
Vanilla Extract: (1 teaspoon or 4 grams) Enhances the overall flavor.
Large Egg: (1 egg or 50 grams, lightly beaten) Helps bind the ingredients together and enriches the dough.
Simply Organic Seeds: (4 teaspoons or 16 grams, as desired) A mix of sesame, black sesame, and poppy seeds for a crunchy topping.

Cooking Method for Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls

Making Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls is a straightforward process that anyone can master with a little patience and love. By following the steps below, you’ll create delicious rolls that will impress every guest at your table!

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, instant yeast, and kosher salt. Mix on low speed until well combined. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly mixed, which is crucial for an even rise.
In a small saucepan, heat the mashed baked sweet potato, whole milk, unsalted butter, honey, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter is melted and the mixture reaches a temperature between 120°F (49°C) and 130°F (54°C). Using a thermometer is important to ensure the yeast activates properly.
Slowly add the warm sweet potato mixture to the flour mixture in the stand mixer. Beat on low speed until the ingredients are combined, which should take about one minute. It’s key to not overmix at this stage.
Switch to the dough hook attachment and mix the dough on medium speed until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 12 to 13 minutes. If the dough feels sticky, add up to ¼ cup (31 grams) of all-purpose flour, one tablespoon (8 grams) at a time, until it’s manageable.
Once the dough has formed, turn it out onto a very lightly floured surface. Shape it into a smooth round, ensuring all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Lightly oil a medium bowl, place the dough in it, and turn to coat the top with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, which should take about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
While the dough rises, spray a 9-inch round cake pan with cooking spray. This will prevent the rolls from sticking.
After the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release air bubbles, and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 9 equal portions, approximately 98 grams each. Shape each portion into a smooth round and place them in the prepared pan.
Cover the dough again and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size again, about 35 to 45 minutes. It’s important to be patient during this step to achieve a fluffy texture.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Once preheated, brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg and sprinkle with Simply Organic Seeds if desired. This adds a beautiful finish and flavor to the rolls.
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven until they are deep golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center reads 200°F (93°C), which should take about 25 to 30 minutes. Let them cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. The smell will be irresistible!

Things Worth Knowing

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your liquid ingredients are at the right temperature for optimal yeast activation. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cool can prevent it from working.
Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly tacky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but don’t overdo it.
Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Don’t rush through the rising times.
Egg Wash: Brushing with an egg wash not only provides a nice sheen but also adds to the flavor of the crust.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls, consider the following tips:

Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Freezing: These rolls freeze beautifully! Just let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Pairing: These rolls pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or even as a delightful base for sandwiches.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seeds on top, or mix in herbs for a savory twist.
Serving Warm: Always serve these rolls warm for the best flavor and texture. Just a few minutes in the oven can revive their soft goodness.

How to Serve Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls

When it comes to serving Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Cozy Family Dinners: These rolls are perfect for a chilly evening meal. Serve them alongside hearty soups or stews for a comforting combination.
Holiday Feasts: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or Christmas, these rolls add a festive touch to your holiday table.
Picnics and Potlucks: Their delightful flavor makes them a hit at gatherings. Pack them for a picnic or serve them at potlucks for an impressive contribution.
Breakfast Treat: Use them as a base for breakfast sandwiches filled with eggs and cheese for a delicious morning treat.
With Dips: Pair these rolls with a variety of dips, such as hummus or a creamy spinach dip, for a fun appetizer.
Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy them with seasonal dishes, making sure to highlight the flavors of fall, like pumpkin soup or roasted vegetables.

FAQ

While you can technically use regular potatoes, the flavor and texture of Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls greatly benefit from the natural sweetness and moisture that sweet potatoes provide. Regular potatoes may yield a denser roll, so I highly recommend sticking with sweet potatoes for the best results!

To make Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls vegan, you can replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. For the egg, you can use a flax egg or commercial egg replacer. This way, you can still enjoy these delicious rolls without animal products!

The best way to store leftover Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, I suggest freezing them. Just ensure they are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or spices like cinnamon can elevate the flavor of your Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls. Just be cautious with the quantity—start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preferences. This is a wonderful way to customize the rolls!

Conclusion

Honey Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, combining the sweetness of honey and the comforting texture of sweet potatoes into one delicious roll. This recipe not only offers a treat for your taste buds but also brings warmth and joy to any dining occasion. I encourage you to try making these rolls for your next family gathering or cozy dinner at home. They are sure to be a hit!