These Pull Apart Sourdough Dinner Rolls are warm, fluffy, and perfect for sharing! Their soft texture makes them great for soaking up your favorite sauces or spreads.
They’re so good that you’ll find it hard to just eat one! I love serving them fresh from the oven, and watching everyone pull their own roll is always a fun moment! 😄
Making these rolls is easier than you think. Just mix the ingredients, shape the dough, and let it rise. You’ll have delicious rolls ready to impress at your next meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter: You’ll need an active starter for these rolls. If you don’t have one, you can use store-bought refrigerated dough or even dry yeast. Just add water and a bit of sugar to activate it.
All-Purpose Flour: This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you can easily substitute bread flour if you want a chewier texture. For a gluten-free option, look for a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Warm Milk: Use whole milk for richness, but almond or oat milk works as a dairy-free alternative. Just make sure they are warm, not hot, to protect the yeast.
Unsalted Butter: If you’re dairy-free, use coconut oil or vegan butter. If you prefer a lighter taste, olive oil can also work. Just use it in the same amount.
Coarse Sea Salt: This adds a beautiful finish. If you don’t have it, regular table salt is fine, but use less—about half the amount.
How Do I Knead the Dough Properly?
Kneading is key to building the gluten structure, which keeps your rolls airy. Here’s how to knead effectively:
- Flour your surface lightly to prevent sticking.
- Turn out your dough and press it down with the heel of your hand.
- Fold the dough over itself, then turn it 90 degrees and repeat. Continue for about 8-10 minutes.
If you choose the stand mixer method, keep it on medium speed until the dough is smooth. It should be elastic but not too sticky!
What Should I Watch For During the Rising Times?
Rising times can vary. Look for these signs:
- The dough should double in size. You can poke it; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.
- In the second rise, the dough balls should be puffy and touching. This helps them bake together nicely.
Warm, draft-free spots are perfect for rising, so consider your kitchen’s temperature!
Enjoy making these rolls! They’re great for gatherings or as a cozy dinner side.
How to Make Pull Apart Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk (around 100°F/38°C)
- 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus extra for brushing
- 1 large egg
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling on top
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of hands-on prep time, followed by a total of about 5-7 hours to let the dough rise. After the second rise, it will take an additional 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you can expect about 6-7 hours from start to finish, including rising times.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Start by mixing together the active sourdough starter, warm milk, egg, and melted butter in a large mixing bowl. Stir everything until it is well combined and the mixture is smooth.
2. Add Dry Ingredients:
Next, sprinkle in the sugar, salt, and all-purpose flour into the wet mixture. Mix everything together until you get a sticky dough. Don’t worry if it seems a little wet; that’s a good sign!
3. Knead the Dough:
Now, turn the sticky dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it with your hands for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you prefer, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook set on medium speed for 5-7 minutes to do this.
4. First Rise:
Once kneaded, place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise at room temperature for about 3-4 hours, or until it has nearly doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls:
When the dough has risen, gently deflate it. Divide it into 9-12 equal pieces, depending on how large you want your rolls. Take each piece and shape it into a smooth ball by folding the edges underneath and rolling it in your hands.
6. Second Rise:
Next, arrange the dough balls closely together in a greased 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with a towel and let them rise for another 1.5 to 2 hours or until they are puffy and almost doubled again.
7. Preheat the Oven:
While your rolls are rising again, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures they bake evenly once they’re ready.
8. Bake the Rolls:
Right before baking, lightly brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle some coarse sea salt on top. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
9. Cool and Serve:
After baking, take the rolls out of the oven and, if you like, brush them with a bit more melted butter. Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps them firm up a bit, making it easier to pull them apart.
Enjoy your soft, fluffy sourdough pull-apart dinner rolls warm with butter or your favorite spread! They are perfect for any occasion and will make your meal extra special.
Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but make sure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum.
What Should I Do If My Dough Isn’t Rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, it might be because your starter isn’t active enough or the room is too cold. Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active right before using it. You can also try placing the dough in a warmer spot, like inside an oven with the light on, to encourage rising.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight for the first rise. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. In the morning, take it out, let it come to room temperature, then shape and complete the second rise as usual.
How to Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
