We’ve always adored the soft, buttery charm of Bob Evans Yeast Rolls, a staple from a classic American diner that brings back cozy family meals. These rolls embody homestyle comfort with their pillowy texture and irresistible warmth, making them a hit at any table.
In our kitchen, we’ve crafted this easy recipe to capture that signature fluffiness without the restaurant wait. It’s perfect for beginners and pros alike, so let’s dive in and bake up some fresh, homemade magic that everyone will love.
Ingredients
To bring the signature soft and buttery texture of our Bob Evans Yeast Rolls to your kitchen, we start with these carefully selected ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order they’ll be used, including precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- 1 cup warm water (heated to about 110°F, ideal for activating the yeast and ensuring a fluffy rise)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (we recommend instant or active dry for reliable fermentation and that classic diner-fresh flavor)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (used to feed the yeast, promoting a tender crumb and subtle sweetness that mimics the original rolls)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted if lumpy, to provide the perfect structure and achieve that light, pillowy texture)
- 1 teaspoon salt (fine sea or table salt, added to balance flavors and enhance the rolls’ savory notes)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted, for richness and a golden sheen that evokes the warmth of family-style dining)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed slightly, to contribute moisture and a creamy finish)
- 1 large egg (at room temperature, for binding and adding extra tenderness to the dough)
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients like warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar, we guide you through crafting Bob Evans Yeast Rolls with simple, precise steps for that signature soft and buttery texture.
Prep
Begin by activating the yeast to ensure a fluffy rise. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (around 110°F) with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Stir gently until the yeast dissolves, then let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and fragrant.
Next, in the same bowl, add 1 cup of whole milk warmed to room temperature, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these together until well blended, creating a smooth mixture that smells richly buttery. Gradually stir in 4 to 4 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, using a wooden spoon or stand mixer with a dough hook. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it forms a soft, elastic ball that springs back when pressed, signaling it’s ready for rising.
First Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough to a greased bowl, turning it once to coat all sides with oil for even rising. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and place it in a warm, draft-free spot like the inside of an oven with the light on.
Let the dough rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until it doubles in size, allowing the yeast to work its magic and fill the air with a warm, yeasty aroma that promises fluffy Bob Evans-style rolls.
Shaping
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the gases, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal portions using a sharp knife or bench scraper for uniform rolls.
Shape each portion into a smooth ball by rolling it between your palms, then place the balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This step creates the classic rounded form that bakes into soft, golden Bob Evans Yeast Rolls with a tender interior.
Second Rise
Cover the shaped rolls loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again in a warm area for 30-45 minutes, or until they puff up and nearly double in size.
Watch as the dough expands, developing a light, airy texture that enhances the rolls’ irresistible fluffiness and buttery flavor we all love.
Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F while the rolls complete their second rise. Once ready, brush the tops with 1 tablespoon of melted unsalted butter for a glossy, golden finish.
Bake the rolls in the center of the oven for 15-20 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even browning, until they turn a deep golden color and emit a mouthwatering, buttery scent. Remove from the oven when an internal temperature of 190°F is reached, as confirmed with an instant-read thermometer, ensuring perfectly baked Bob Evans Yeast Rolls that are soft inside and slightly crisp outside.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Bob Evans Yeast Rolls to life with ease and precision, we rely on a few key tools that streamline the process from yeast activation to baking. Let’s outline the essential equipment, organized by the stages of preparation for optimal flow.
Mixing and Dough Preparation
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining wet ingredients like warm water, yeast, and sugar, ensuring even distribution and room for dough expansion.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate measurements of ingredients such as granulated sugar and salt, helping us achieve the signature fluffy texture.
- Whisk or wooden spoon: Used to blend the milk, melted butter, and egg into the yeast mixture, promoting a smooth and uniform dough base.
Kneading and Rising
- Stand mixer with dough hook (or sturdy bowl for hand kneading): Perfect for kneading the dough until soft and elastic, saving time while mimicking the professional results of Bob Evans rolls.
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap: Essential for covering the dough during its first rise, allowing it to double in size without drying out.
Shaping and Baking
- Baking pan or muffin tin: A greased 9×13-inch pan works best for shaping dough balls and achieving that golden-brown, slightly crisp exterior.
- Oven thermometer: Ensures the oven maintains a steady 375°F, guaranteeing even baking and the rolls’ soft, buttery interior.
- Cooling rack: Allows the baked rolls to cool evenly after removal from the oven, preserving their fresh texture for serving.
By having these items ready, we ensure our baking session is efficient and enjoyable, seamlessly transitioning from the ingredient mixing and step-by-step instructions outlined earlier.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Bob Evans Yeast Rolls even more convenient for busy schedules, we recommend preparing them ahead of time while preserving their signature soft and buttery texture. This allows you to enjoy fresh-baked rolls whenever you need them, without starting from scratch.
Preparing the Dough in Advance
We can mix and knead the dough up to 24 hours ahead. After the first rise, punch down the dough, shape it into a ball, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it immediately to slow fermentation and enhance flavor development. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 1 hour until it softens and becomes pliable again. This step ensures the dough rises perfectly, delivering that fluffy, golden-brown result we love in Bob Evans Yeast Rolls.
Shaping and Second Rise Ahead
For even more convenience, shape the rolls into balls after the first rise and arrange them in a greased baking pan as outlined in our step-by-step instructions. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel, then refrigerate for up to 12 hours. This cold proofing method allows the rolls to develop a deeper, more complex flavor while maintaining their light and airy interior. Before baking, remove the pan from the fridge and let it rise at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes until the rolls puff up noticeably. You’ll appreciate the fresh, warm aroma as they bake to a perfect golden hue.
Freezing Options
Freezing is an excellent way to prepare Bob Evans Yeast Rolls for longer storage. Here’s how we suggest doing it:
- Unbaked Rolls: After shaping the rolls and completing the second rise, place the baking pan in the freezer uncovered until the rolls are firm (about 1 to 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, let them thaw and rise at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours, then bake at 375°F as directed.
- Baked Rolls: If you prefer to bake first, cool the rolls completely on a wire rack after baking. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes until they regain their soft, buttery exterior.
| Freezing Method | Storage Duration | Thawing/Baking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Unbaked Rolls | Up to 2 months | 2-3 hours thaw + bake as directed |
| Baked Rolls | Up to 1 month | Thaw at room temp + 5-7 minutes at 350°F |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your homemade Bob Evans Yeast Rolls remain irresistibly fresh and flavorful, ready to enhance any meal with minimal effort.
Conclusion
We’ve had a blast guiding you through this Bob Evans Yeast Rolls recipe. It’s our go-to for adding that cozy diner vibe to any gathering.
Baking these at home lets us savor fresh fluffy rolls that elevate meals effortlessly. Dive in and make them yours for endless delicious moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Bob Evans Yeast Rolls?
To make these rolls, you’ll need warm water, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, unsalted butter, whole milk, and a large egg. These simple ingredients work together to create the soft, buttery texture that mimics the diner favorite. Measure them accurately for the best results.
How do I make homemade Bob Evans Yeast Rolls?
Start by activating the yeast in warm water and sugar until it foams. Mix in milk, melted butter, egg, and salt, then add flour gradually to form a dough. Knead until smooth, let it rise, shape into balls, and rise again. Bake at 375°F until golden brown. This easy process yields fluffy rolls in about 2 hours.
What equipment do I need to bake Bob Evans Yeast Rolls?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk or wooden spoon for mixing, a stand mixer or bowl for kneading, a greased baking pan or muffin tin, and plastic wrap or a towel for rising. An oven thermometer and cooling rack help ensure even baking and perfect results.
Can I prepare Bob Evans Yeast Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, make the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate after the first rise for better flavor. You can also shape the rolls and chill them for up to 12 hours. For longer storage, freeze unbaked rolls for up to 2 months or baked ones for 1 month, then thaw and bake as needed.
How should I store Bob Evans Yeast Rolls?
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For freezing, wrap unbaked rolls tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; baked rolls last a month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven for fresh taste.
Why are Bob Evans Yeast Rolls so popular?
Bob Evans Yeast Rolls are beloved for their soft, buttery texture and nostalgic diner vibe, evoking memories of family meals. They’re easy to make at home, offering that perfect balance of fluffiness and flavor. This recipe lets anyone recreate that comforting experience, making them a hit for gatherings or everyday dinners.