Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls: 7 Easy Steps

Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls are a delightful twist on classic dinner rolls, offering a subtle sweetness and a beautiful golden hue. These rolls are incredibly soft, fluffy, and perfect for pairing with just about any meal. The addition of sweet potato not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the moist and tender texture that makes these rolls irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving, a cozy Sunday dinner, or a simple weeknight meal, these Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls are sure to be a hit. Learning how to make these rolls at home is easier than you might think, and the result is well worth the effort.

I first encountered Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls at a local bakery known for its innovative and seasonal breads. Intrigued by the unique combination, I decided to try them, and I was immediately hooked. The slight sweetness and the comforting warmth of the rolls made them an instant favorite. Inspired, I set out to recreate the recipe at home, tweaking it over time to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Through many attempts and adjustments, I finally landed on a version that I am excited to share with you. It’s a process, like most baking endeavors, but trust me, the end result is worth every step. The warm, fragrant aroma filling your kitchen as these Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls bake is a reward in itself.

What Makes Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls Special

What sets these rolls apart is the incorporation of sweet potato into the dough. The sweet potato not only adds a subtle sweetness but also acts as a natural tenderizer, resulting in a soft and moist crumb. The natural sugars in the sweet potato also contribute to a beautiful golden-brown crust. Furthermore, the addition of sweet potato provides extra nutrients, making these rolls a slightly healthier option compared to traditional yeast rolls. The unique flavor profile makes them versatile enough to pair with both savory and sweet dishes, making them a standout addition to any meal. The slight tang from the yeast combined with the earthy sweetness of the sweet potato creates a flavor harmony that is simply divine.

Key Ingredients for Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls

• Sweet Potato: Provides moisture, sweetness, and a tender crumb. Use about 1 cup of mashed sweet potato for the best results.
• Active Dry Yeast: Essential for leavening the dough. Ensure it’s fresh and proofed properly for optimal rise.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps activate the yeast. Lukewarm milk (105-115°F) is ideal.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness. Granulated sugar works best.
• Butter: Contributes to the rich flavor and soft texture. Use unsalted butter for better control over the salt content.

How to Make Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potato

Bake or boil the sweet potato until soft. Mash until smooth and set aside 1 cup for the recipe.

Step 2: Proof the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the sugar, salt, melted butter, egg, and mashed sweet potato to the yeast mixture. Mix well until combined.

Step 4: Add Flour

Gradually add the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy!

Storing Your Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls

Proper storage is essential to maintaining the freshness and texture of your Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls. Once the rolls have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For long-term storage, freezing is an excellent option. Place the cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the rolls completely at room temperature before reheating.

To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help restore their soft and fluffy texture, ensuring they taste as good as freshly baked.

Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls Variations & Substitutions

There are several variations and substitutions you can explore to customize your Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls to your liking. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the milk with almond or soy milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative. If you’re looking to add a bit more flavor, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger into the dough. For a sweeter roll, you can increase the amount of sugar slightly or add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the dough. To create a savory version, try adding herbs such as rosemary or thyme. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour, for a heartier texture and flavor.

Remember to adjust the amount of liquid as needed when using different flours to achieve the desired dough consistency. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After the first rise, punch it down, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls

Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them warm with butter or a drizzle of honey for a simple yet satisfying side. They are also excellent alongside hearty soups, stews, and chili. For a holiday feast, these rolls make a wonderful addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas spread. They complement roasted turkey, ham, and other traditional holiday dishes beautifully. The subtle sweetness of the rolls also pairs well with savory flavors, making them a great accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetable dishes. Consider using them to make mini sandwiches with leftover turkey or ham for a delicious and comforting snack.

The History of Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls

The history of Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls is rooted in the culinary traditions of the American South, where sweet potatoes have long been a staple ingredient. Sweet potatoes were first cultivated in South America thousands of years ago and made their way to North America through trade and exploration. Enslaved Africans brought their knowledge of sweet potato cultivation and cooking to the Southern United States, where the vegetable became an integral part of their cuisine. Incorporating sweet potatoes into bread and rolls was a way to add flavor, moisture, and nutrients to everyday meals.

Yeast bread-making also has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations. Combining these two traditions resulted in the creation of Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls, a dish that reflects the blending of cultures and ingredients in American cuisine. These rolls are now enjoyed across the country, representing a delicious connection to the past.

In conclusion, these Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls are a delightful and unique addition to any meal. With their subtle sweetness, soft texture, and beautiful golden color, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t be intimidated by the yeast; with a little patience and practice, you’ll be baking these rolls like a pro in no time. Enjoy the process, savor the aroma, and relish the delicious results. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a fantastic way to explore the joys of homemade bread and discover the magic of sweet potatoes.

Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls

Fluffy and flavorful Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed sweet potato about 1 large sweet potato
• 1/2 cup milk, lukewarm 105-115°F
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

Egg Wash (Optional)

• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions

 

• Prepare Sweet Potato: Bake or boil the sweet potato until soft. Mash until smooth and set aside 1 cup for the recipe.
• Proof the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
• Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the sugar, salt, melted butter, egg, and mashed sweet potato to the yeast mixture. Mix well until combined.
• Add Flour: Gradually add the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
• First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
• Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
• Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Ensure your milk is lukewarm (105-115°F) to properly activate the yeast.
• Avoid adding too much flour, as this can result in dry rolls.