Parker House Rolls Recipe

Parker House Rolls are a classic and beloved recipe that has a long history. These buttery, soft rolls originated from the Parker House Hotel in Boston, Massachusetts in the late 19th century. The hotel, which opened in 1855, was renowned for its exceptional hospitality and delicious cuisine. The Parker House Rolls quickly gained popularity and became one of the hotel's signature dishes.

Now, let's dive into the recipe to recreate these delectable rolls at home.

Ingredients:
- 2-1/2 cups flour
- 4 teaspoons Dr. Price's Baking Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 5 tablespoons shortening
- 1 egg
- 2/3 cup milk
- Butter
- Raisins
- Chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature, about 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Combining the dry ingredients ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

3. Melt the shortening and set aside to cool slightly.

4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly. Then, add the egg to the milk along with the melted shortening. Mix well to combine all the wet ingredients.

5. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until a soft dough forms. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands to combine the ingredients.

6. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface, such as a board or countertop. Knead the dough lightly for a few minutes until smooth and elastic.

7. Roll out the dough thinly using a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.

8. Spread a generous amount of butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. This will enhance the richness and flavor of the rolls.

9. Sprinkle raisins and chopped nuts over the buttered dough. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.

10. Sprinkle a small amount of granulated sugar over the dough. This will add a touch of sweetness to the rolls.

11. Cut the dough into approximately 4-inch squares using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter. This size allows for a manageable roll and a nice presentation.

12. Take each square and roll it up tightly, similar to a jelly roll. Press the edges together firmly to seal.

13. Place the rolled-up dough onto a greased baking pan, leaving some space between each roll for expansion.

14. In a small bowl, beat an egg yolk with a little cold water. Brush this mixture over the top of each roll. This step adds a glossy finish and enhances the golden color.

15. Sprinkle additional chopped nuts and sugar over the top of each roll for added texture and sweetness.

16. Allow the rolls to rest in the greased pan for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps the dough relax and rise slightly.

17. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown on the outside.

Once the Parker House Rolls are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm and fresh.

Now, let's talk about some fun facts and variations you can try with this recipe. The original Parker House Rolls didn't have raisins or nuts, but these additions provide extra flavor and texture to the classic recipe. If you prefer a simpler version, you can omit them and still enjoy the delightful taste of these rolls.

Parker House Rolls are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish for soups, stews, and roasts, or they can be enjoyed on their own as a snack. You can also top them with some melted butter or your favorite jam.

Similar to Parker House Rolls, there are other famous bread roll recipes, such as cloverleaf rolls and dinner rolls. Cloverleaf rolls are named after their unique three-leaf clover shape, while dinner rolls are smaller in size and perfect for individual servings. These variations are excellent choices for special occasions or everyday meals.

Now that you have the recipe for Parker House Rolls, why not give it a try and experience the delightful taste of these buttery rolls right in your own kitchen? Enjoy the history and tradition of this classic recipe, and feel free to experiment with different flavors and adaptations.

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