Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fluffy Potato Rolls are incredibly soft, tender, and slightly sweet thanks to the addition of mashed potatoes in the dough. Perfect for holiday dinners, sandwiches, or simply served warm with butter, these rolls stay moist for days and are a comforting addition to any meal.

ingredients

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

mashed potatoes (plain, without butter or seasoning)all-purpose flourgranulated sugarsaltunsalted butterwarm milkactive dry yeasteggs

directions

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk with a pinch of sugar and let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt.

Add the mashed potatoes, butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.

Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Punch down the dough and divide into equal pieces, shaping each into a ball.

Arrange the balls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise again until puffy, about 30-45 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.

Brush the warm rolls with melted butter for an extra soft finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 rolls.Preparation time: 20 minutesFirst rise: 1-1.5 hoursSecond rise: 30-45 minutesBaking time: 18-22 minutesTotal time: about 3 hours

Variations

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness.

Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.

Top with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking for a little extra texture.

Make mini versions for sliders or party sandwiches.

storage/reheating

Store Fluffy Potato Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.To reheat, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes or microwave briefly until soft.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Yes, as long as they are plain without added butter, cream, or seasonings.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
It’s best to use real mashed potatoes for flavor and texture, but instant can work in a pinch.

Why are potato rolls so soft?
The starch in potatoes absorbs water, which keeps the rolls moist and tender longer than regular bread.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Do I need a stand mixer?
No, you can knead the dough by hand, although a stand mixer makes the process easier.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The tops should be golden, and tapping them should produce a hollow sound.

Can I add cheese?
Absolutely, mix shredded cheese into the dough or sprinkle on top before baking.

What type of yeast is best?
Active dry yeast works well, but you can substitute with instant yeast—just adjust the method slightly.

Are these rolls sweet or savory?
They are mildly sweet, but you can adjust the sugar if you prefer a more savory roll.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but make sure you have enough space and pans to accommodate the larger batch.

Conclusion

Fluffy Potato Rolls are a must-try if you’re looking for a soft, pillowy roll that stays delicious for days. Whether for a holiday feast, a casual dinner, or simply as a snack with butter, these rolls bring comfort and a homemade touch to every meal. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a family favorite.