Parker House Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Parker House rolls are the ultimate dinner roll pillowy soft, lightly sweetened, and brushed with butter for a melt-in-your-mouth bite. The addition of maple syrup gives them a subtle richness and warmth, while the finishing touch of flake salt balances out the flavor beautifully. Served with homemade maple butter, they become a truly memorable side dish that pairs well with just about any meal.

Ingredients

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

Parker House Rolls:
3 ¼–3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more if needed
1 packet rapid rise yeast (such as Fleischmann’s® Rapid Rise Yeast)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup warm whole milk (or substitute with the same amount of half-and-half or heavy cream)
3 tablespoons 100% maple syrup
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
1 large egg, room temperature
Flake-y Mediterranean Cyprus sea salt, for topping before serving

Maple Butter:
5-6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons 100% pure maple syrup

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of the flour, yeast, and kosher salt.
2. In a saucepan or microwave, warm the milk until just lukewarm (about 110°F). Stir in the maple syrup and softened butter.
3. Add the milk mixture and the egg to the flour mixture. Stir until combined.
4. Gradually add the remaining flour, ¼ cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 6-8 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Punch down the dough and divide into 12-16 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place on a greased baking sheet.
8. Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
9. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
10. Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
11. While the rolls bake, whisk together the melted butter and maple syrup to make the maple butter.
12. Brush the hot rolls with maple butter immediately after baking and sprinkle with flake salt.
13. Serve warm with extra maple butter on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12–16 rolls.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rise time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Bake time: 20 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Variations

• Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory version.
• Replace maple syrup with honey for a different sweetness.
• Sprinkle grated cheese on top before baking for cheesy Parker House rolls.
• Make them mini-sized for sliders or party rolls.
• Swap the maple butter for garlic herb butter for a savory twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap cooled rolls in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Brush with additional maple butter before serving.

FAQs

What makes Parker House rolls unique?

Their soft, buttery texture and slight sweetness set them apart from standard dinner rolls.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of rapid rise?

Yes, but you’ll need to proof it in warm milk and allow slightly longer rise times.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

It should double in size and spring back slowly when pressed with a fingertip.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight and bake the next day.

Do I have to use maple syrup?

No, you can use honey or sugar, but maple syrup adds a unique flavor.

Can I make these rolls without eggs?

Yes, substitute with 3 tablespoons of milk or a flaxseed egg for a slightly different texture.

Why are my rolls dense instead of fluffy?

This usually happens if the dough wasn’t kneaded enough, didn’t rise properly, or too much flour was added.

Can I bake the rolls in a casserole dish?

Yes, baking them close together in a dish creates pull-apart style rolls.

What’s the best way to reheat rolls?

Warm them in a low oven (300°F) to restore their soft texture, then brush with butter.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and divide into two baking sheets or dishes.

Conclusion

Parker House rolls are a timeless classic that bring warmth and comfort to any meal. With their soft, buttery texture and hint of maple sweetness, they’re perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Serve them warm with maple butter, and they’ll quickly become a family favorite.

Print