Parker House Rolls

Parker House Rolls are a beloved classic in American baking, known for their irresistibly soft, fluffy texture and rich buttery flavor. First created at the historic Parker House Hotel in Boston, these rolls have stood the test of time and remain a staple for holiday tables, family dinners, and special occasions.

Warm from the oven and brushed generously with butter, these rolls fill the kitchen with an aroma that instantly signals comfort and celebration. Baking them at home brings a sense of tradition and warmth that store-bought rolls simply can’t match.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers consistently soft, buttery rolls that feel both nostalgic and special.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about working with enriched dough and watching it rise into pillowy perfection. These rolls are light yet rich, simple yet elegant, and they pair beautifully with almost any meal. Every bite feels comforting, and they always disappear quickly once served.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because Parker House Rolls elevate any meal instantly.
They’re perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want to impress without complicated techniques. Their tender crumb, golden crust, and buttery flavor make them universally loved by both kids and adults.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
Rising Time: 1½–2 hours
Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: About 2½ hours

Servings: 12 rolls
Calories: Approximately 180–200 calories per roll

Course: Bread / Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• ¾ cup whole milk, warm
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

For Brushing:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (divided)

Cooking Directions

These rolls are made using a classic enriched yeast dough.
The dough is mixed, kneaded until smooth, allowed to rise, shaped into folded rolls, and baked until golden brown. Butter is brushed on before and after baking to enhance flavor and softness.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir well. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or knead in a stand mixer with a dough hook.

Step 4: First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Roll the dough out to about ½-inch thickness. Cut into rectangles. Brush half of each rectangle with melted butter and fold over lengthwise.

Step 6: Second Rise
Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, until lightly golden.

Step 8: Finish with Butter
Brush hot rolls with remaining melted butter and serve warm.

How to Serve Parker House Rolls

They are perfect alongside roasted meats, turkey dinners, soups, stews, or holiday feasts. They’re also delicious split and filled with ham or turkey for mini sandwiches

Recipe Tips

• Use warm milk, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast
• Avoid adding too much flour; a soft dough makes tender rolls
• Let the dough rise fully for light, airy texture
• Brush generously with butter for classic Parker House flavor

Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste:

• Honey Butter Parker House Rolls: Add 2 tablespoons honey to the dough
• Garlic Butter Rolls: Brush baked rolls with garlic-infused butter
• Herb Rolls: Mix chopped rosemary or thyme into the dough
• Whole Wheat Version: Replace up to 50% of the flour with whole wheat flour

Freezing and Storage

Storage:
Store rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing:
Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven until warmed. Shaped, unbaked rolls can also be frozen and baked after thawing and rising.

Special Equipment Needed

Basic baking tools are all you need:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Pastry brush

Conclusion

Parker House Rolls are a timeless bread recipe that brings warmth, comfort, and elegance to any table. With their soft texture, buttery flavor, and classic folded shape, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe delivers reliable, bakery-quality results that will keep everyone reaching for seconds.