Tea Rolls Recipe

Tea Rolls Recipe:

History and Fun Facts:
Tea rolls have been enjoyed as a traditional tea-time treat for centuries. Originating in Europe, they were commonly served with afternoon tea in England during the Victorian era. These delicate and fluffy rolls were often laden with butter and jam, making them a popular choice for tea parties and gatherings. In modern times, tea rolls have evolved to include various flavors and fillings, making them a versatile and beloved treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cake of compressed yeast
- 1 ½ cups flour (plus extra for kneading)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 eggs
- ⅓ cup butter, softened
- Butter (for greasing pans)

Instructions:
1. Begin by scalding the milk. Heat it gently in a saucepan until it just starts to bubble around the edges. Remove from heat and let it cool until lukewarm.

2. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the compressed yeast in the lukewarm milk. Stir until fully dissolved.

3. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Thoroughly beat the mixture until well combined and smooth.

4. Cover the mixing bowl with a clean kitchen towel and allow the mixture to stand in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it becomes light and foamy.

5. Once the yeast mixture has risen, add the sugar, salt, eggs, and softened butter to the bowl. Mix well, ensuring all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

6. Gradually add enough flour (about 2 to 3 cups) to the mixture to create a soft dough. Begin kneading the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add more flour as you knead to prevent sticking, but be careful not to add too much as it can make the rolls dense.

7. Return the dough to the mixing bowl, cover with the kitchen towel, and allow it to rise again in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This may take around 1-2 hours.

8. Once the dough has risen, lightly punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into small portions. You can shape the dough into either round or small oblong finger rolls.

9. Grease baking pans with butter and place the shaped rolls close together in the pans. This will help them rise upwards rather than sideways during baking.

10. Cover the pans with the kitchen towel and let the rolls rise once more until they are light and airy. This should take approximately 30 minutes to an hour.

11. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the hot oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.

12. Remove the tea rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, spread with butter or your favorite jam.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you're a fan of tea rolls, you might also enjoy some similar recipe dishes. Here are a few ideas:

1. Cinnamon Rolls: A delightful sweet treat made with a fluffy dough, buttery cinnamon filling, and creamy icing. Perfect for breakfast or brunch.

2. Parker House Rolls: These classic American rolls are soft and buttery, with a slightly sweet flavor. They are often served as a side dish for dinner.

3. Brioche Bread: Known for its rich and buttery flavor, brioche bread is perfect for making sandwiches, French toast, or simply enjoying on its own.

4. Pretzel Rolls: These rolls have a unique twist with a chewy and salty exterior, making them a great option for sandwiches or serving with soups and stews.

Experiment with these recipes and discover new favorites to complement your tea time or any occasion. Enjoy the process of baking and treat yourself to scrumptious homemade rolls.