Savory, soft, and aromatic, Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any fall, winter, or holiday dinner. The caramelized nutty flavor from browning the butter creates an unforgettable taste that complements a variety of meals. These rolls are perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, making them a must-try recipe for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The brown butter brings a rich, nutty taste that elevates these rolls beyond ordinary bread.
- Aromatic and Inviting: Fresh sage and thyme fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma as they bake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual family meal, these rolls fit seamlessly into any spread.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up these rolls with confidence.
- Versatile Pairing Options: Enjoy them with soups, stews, or as a side to your favorite main dishes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for an efficient baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Light-colored skillet or saucepan
- Medium heatproof bowl
- Dough hook (if using stand mixer)
- Large greased bowl for rising
- Baking pan (9×13-inch or two 9-inch rounds)
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing and kneading easier and more consistent than by hand.
- Light-colored skillet: Helps monitor the browning process of the butter to achieve the perfect flavor.
- Dough hook: Aids in developing gluten in the dough for soft rolls.
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 or whisking constantly. After about 5–7 minutes, you’ll notice lightly browned specks forming at the bottom of the pan. Once it reaches a light caramel-brown color and has a nutty aroma, remove from heat immediately and pour into the bowl. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Yeast Mixture
In your stand mixer bowl (or a large mixing bowl), whisk together the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Loosely cover it and let it sit for approximately 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the remaining honey, egg, 6 tablespoons of slightly cooled brown butter (save some for brushing later), salt, sage, thyme, and 1 cup of bread flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed using a dough hook or paddle attachment for about 30 seconds. Scrape down sides and add remaining bread flour gradually until well combined.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Keep the dough in your mixer (switch to dough hook if needed) and knead at medium speed for an additional 5 minutes. If kneading by hand on a floured surface, do so for about five minutes until soft and slightly tacky without being sticky. Use the windowpane test to ensure proper gluten development.
Step 5: Let Dough Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl with oil. Place dough inside and turn to coat all sides in oil. Cover with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm area for about 1.5–2 hours until doubled in size.
Step 6: Prepare Baking Pan
Grease your baking pan(s) — either a single 9×13-inch or two round/square pans work well. You can also use cast iron skillets if preferred.
Continue following these steps to create perfectly fluffy Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls, perfect for sharing during special occasions!
How to Serve Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also elevate any meal with their delightful aroma and flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy these rolls at their best.
With Savory Dishes
- Roast Turkey: These rolls pair perfectly with roast turkey, adding a warm and savory touch to your holiday feast.
- Herb-Crusted Pork Loin: The nutty flavor of brown butter complements the herbs in this dish, making each bite heavenly.
- Vegetarian Chili: Dip these rolls into a hearty vegetarian chili for a comforting and filling meal.
For Brunch
- Scrambled Eggs: Serve warm rolls alongside fluffy scrambled eggs for a satisfying brunch option.
- Smoked Salmon: Top with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a sophisticated start to your day.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Pairing these rolls with a refreshing fruit salad adds brightness to your brunch spread.
As an Appetizer
- Cheese Platter: Serve with an assortment of cheeses, fruits, and nuts for an elegant appetizer.
- Garlic Herb Butter: Spread garlic herb butter on warm rolls for an irresistible starter that guests will love.
How to Perfect Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Making flawless Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time.
- Use Light-Colored Cookware: A light-colored skillet helps you monitor the browning of the butter, ensuring it reaches that perfect caramel color without burning.
- Check Dough Temperature: Make sure your milk is warmed to about 110°F (43°C) before mixing. This temperature activates the yeast effectively.
- Knead Properly: Kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls their structure. Aim for soft but slightly tacky dough—avoid adding too much flour.
- Watch the Rise Time: Allow your dough to rise until it has doubled in size. A warm environment speeds up this process, leading to fluffier rolls.
- Brush with More Brown Butter: For an extra layer of flavor, brush melted brown butter over the rolls right after baking.
- Finish with Flaky Sea Salt: Adding flaky sea salt just before serving enhances the overall taste of the rolls.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can enhance many meals as they complement various flavors well. Here are some excellent side dishes that pair beautifully with them.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side that balances well with savory dinner rolls.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add crunch and contrast, making them an ideal pairing.
- Butternut Squash Soup: This smooth soup’s sweetness harmonizes wonderfully with the nutty flavors of the rolls.
- Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds offer freshness and texture alongside rich dinner rolls.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide a delightful contrast in flavor when served with savory rolls.
- Stuffing or Dressing: A herbed stuffing complements both the dinner rolls and holiday meals perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the rolls and pairs well during festive meals.
- Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness works wonderfully alongside these flavorful dinner rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls can be rewarding, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not browning the butter properly: Ensure you keep a close eye on the butter while it melts and turns golden-brown to achieve that nutty flavor. Stir constantly to avoid burning.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your milk and egg are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can slow down the yeast activation and affect the rise.
- Skipping the kneading step: Kneading develops gluten, which is essential for soft rolls. Don’t rush this process; knead until the dough passes the windowpane test.
- Inadequate rising time: Allow the dough enough time to double in size. If it isn’t rising well, try placing it in a warm spot.
- Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. The perfect roll should be golden-brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.
Freezing Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Freeze rolls for up to 3 months.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in foil and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 10-15 seconds on medium power. Watch closely to avoid drying them out.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can use salted butter, but adjust the amount of salt in the recipe accordingly to maintain balance.
How do I know when my rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden-brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of around 190°F (88°C) also indicates they’re done.
How can I customize my Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls?
Feel free to add different herbs like rosemary or spices such as garlic powder for unique flavors that suit your taste.
Can I make these dinner rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape and refrigerate overnight before baking. They’ll be fresh in the morning!
Final Thoughts
These Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls offer a delightful combination of flavors that enhances any meal. Their soft texture and aromatic notes make them perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or toppings to make this recipe uniquely yours!
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls are a must-try recipe that adds warmth and comfort to any meal. These soft, aromatic rolls infused with nutty brown butter and fragrant sage will elevate your dining experience, making them perfect for fall gatherings, holiday feasts, or cozy family dinners. Their delightful flavor pairs beautifully with savory dishes, while their fluffy texture makes them irresistible on their own. Easy to prepare, this recipe ensures you can fill your home with an inviting aroma and serve delicious rolls that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup whole milk or buttermilk
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (Platinum Yeast from Red Star)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh chopped sage leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 3 cups bread flour
Instructions
- Brown the butter in a light-colored skillet over medium heat until caramel-colored; set aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of honey; allow to foam for about 5–10 minutes.
- Add the remaining honey, egg, cooled brown butter (reserve some for brushing), salt, sage, thyme, and 1 cup of bread flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes either by hand or using a stand mixer.
- Let the dough rise in a greased bowl for 1.5–2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into rolls and place them in a greased baking pan. Let rise again before baking at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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