Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Savory, soft, and aromatic, Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any fall, winter, or holiday meal. The unique caramelized nutty flavor from the browned butter enhances these rolls, making them irresistible. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, they are sure to impress your guests with their rich taste and fluffy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of browned butter and fresh sage creates an aromatic experience that elevates traditional dinner rolls.
• Versatile Use: Serve these rolls alongside your favorite soups, stews, or as a standout feature on your holiday table.
• Easy Preparation: With step-by-step instructions and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality rolls at home.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive feast or a casual weeknight dinner, these rolls fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Planning ahead? These rolls can be made in advance and baked fresh when you need them.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Light-colored skillet or saucepan
• Medium heatproof bowl
• Dough hook (if using stand mixer)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
• Baking pan (9×13 inch or two 9-inch round/square pans)

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the dough easier and more efficient, ensuring even incorporation of ingredients.
• Light-colored skillet: Essential for monitoring the browning process of butter without burning it.
• Dough hook: Helps achieve the perfect dough consistency by kneading effectively.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
• 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk or buttermilk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast (1 standard packet)
• 3 Tablespoons (64g) honey, divided
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage leaves, plus an extra pinch for topping
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 3 cups (390g) bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed
• optional: flaky sea salt, for finishing

How to Make Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Set out a medium heatproof bowl because you’ll need it at the end of this step. Place the sliced butter in a light-colored skillet or saucepan. Melt the butter over medium heat while stirring constantly. After about 5–7 minutes, you’ll notice lightly browned specks forming at the bottom. Once it reaches a light caramel-brown color and has a nutty aroma, remove from heat immediately. Pour into the bowl, including any brown solids that have formed on the bottom. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Activate Yeast

Whisk together the warm milk, yeast, and 1 Tablespoon of honey in your stand mixer bowl (or a large mixing bowl). Loosely cover it and let sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the remaining honey, the egg, 6 Tablespoons of slightly cooled brown butter (reserve some for brushing), salt, chopped sage, thyme, and 1 cup of bread flour. Using a dough hook or paddle attachment, mix on low speed for 30 seconds. Scrape down sides before adding remaining flour. Beat on medium speed until dough pulls away from sides of bowl—about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Keep dough in mixer with dough hook attached. Knead for an additional 5 minutes; alternatively, knead by hand on a floured surface. If too sticky, sprinkle flour gradually until you have a soft but manageable dough that passes the windowpane test.

Step 5: First Rise

Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or nonstick spray. Place dough inside and turn to coat all sides in oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm area for about 1.5–2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Pan

Grease a baking pan measuring 9×13 inches or two round/square pans. You may also use a cast iron skillet or lined baking sheet if preferred.

Now you’re ready to continue creating those delicious Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls!

How to Serve Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not just a delicious side; they can elevate any meal. Their rich, savory flavor pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making them versatile for different occasions.

With Roasted Meats

• Roasted Chicken: The buttery rolls complement the juicy flavors of roasted chicken beautifully.
• Herb-Crusted Pork: Pairing these rolls with herb-crusted pork creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

As Part of a Cheese Board

• Cheddar and Brie: Serve warm with slices of sharp cheddar and creamy brie for a delightful cheese experience.
• Charcuterie: Include these rolls in a charcuterie board alongside cured meats, olives, and spreads.

Dipped in Soups

• Creamy Tomato Soup: The soft texture of the rolls is perfect for dipping into rich tomato soup.
• Butternut Squash Soup: Their savory notes enhance the sweetness of butternut squash soup.

For Breakfast or Brunch

• With Eggs Benedict: Use these rolls as a base for eggs benedict, adding a gourmet twist to your brunch.
• Spread with Jam or Honey: A simple touch of jam or honey on these warm rolls makes for a delightful breakfast treat.

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How to Perfect Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

To achieve the best results with your Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, follow these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh sage and thyme provide vibrant flavors that dried herbs cannot match.
• Monitor Butter Temperature: Ensure the brown butter cools slightly before mixing; this helps prevent cooking the egg when added.
• Knead Thoroughly: Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your rolls their desired texture. Aim for 5 minutes of kneading.
• Let Dough Rise in Warmth: A warm environment encourages yeast activation. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the bowl near a preheated oven (turned off).
• Brush with Brown Butter Before Baking: This adds an extra layer of flavor and enhances browning during baking.
• Don’t Rush the Rise Time: Allowing adequate time for dough to double ensures fluffy and airy rolls.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

These dinner rolls pair excellently with various sides that enhance their unique flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting pairing.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the rolls.
3. Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots bring out the nutty flavors in the brown butter sage dinner rolls.
4. Creamed Spinach: This rich side dish complements the lightness of the rolls perfectly.
5. Stuffing or Dressing: Use these rolls as part of your stuffing recipe or serve them alongside it for a traditional touch.
6. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce adds brightness and balances out the savory flavors.
7. Cornbread Salad: A fresh cornbread salad provides crunch and additional flavor contrasts.
8. Wild Rice Pilaf: The nutty flavors in wild rice complement the brown butter while adding texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Neglecting the yeast: If your yeast isn’t fresh or activated properly, your rolls won’t rise. Always check that your yeast is within the expiration date and let it foam in warm milk before using.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can hinder dough development. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to help create a soft, fluffy roll.
• Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too long can make the rolls tough instead of soft. Aim for about 5 minutes until the dough is slightly tacky and elastic.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry rolls. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement, reducing excess flour during kneading as needed.
• Skipping the rise time: Rushing through the rising process will yield dense rolls. Allow enough time for the dough to double in size, typically 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Using too much butter for brushing: While brown butter adds flavor, too much can make the rolls greasy. Brush lightly with reserved brown butter just before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked rolls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label bags with dates to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in foil and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds per roll. Be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls.

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried sage; however, reduce the amount by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel light and airy. A simple poke test—if it springs back slowly—is a good indicator.

Can I add other herbs or flavors?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or add cheese for extra flavor.

What should I serve these rolls with?

These delicious dinner rolls pair well with soups, stews, and roasted meats—perfect for holiday gatherings!

Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can complete the dough up until the first rise and refrigerate overnight. Bring it back to room temperature before shaping and cooking.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not only savory and aromatic but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for any meal, they can easily be customized with different herbs or additions. Give them a try at your next gathering; they’re sure to impress!