Fluffy Potato Dinner Rolls

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### **Instructions:**

**1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes**
Start by boiling the potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them well, making sure there are no lumps. Set them aside to cool slightly. You want them to be warm, not hot, when mixing them into the dough.

**2. Activate the Yeast**
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (about 110°F or 45°C) and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

**3. Mix the Wet Ingredients**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, melted butter, and egg. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the bowl with the wet ingredients and stir everything together.

**4. Add the Dry Ingredients**
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough starts to form. The dough will be slightly sticky, but that’s perfect for creating those soft, fluffy rolls.

**5. Knead the Dough**
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about **5–7 minutes** until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed. You want the dough to be soft but not overly sticky.

**6. Let It Rise**
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about **1–1.5 hours**, or until it has doubled in size.

**7. Shape the Rolls**
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into **12–15 equal portions** (depending on the size of rolls you prefer) and shape them into smooth balls. Place them on a greased baking dish or a parchment-lined baking sheet.

**8. Second Rise**
Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise for an additional **30–40 minutes**, or until they are puffed up and touching each other.

**9. Bake the Rolls**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Once the rolls have finished rising, bake them for **18–22 minutes**, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

**10. Serve Warm**
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm with a pat of butter, or you can store them in an airtight container to keep them soft for up to 3 days.

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### **Tips & Variations:**

– **Add herbs**: Incorporate finely chopped rosemary or thyme into the dough for a savory twist.
– **Make them extra buttery**: Brush the rolls with melted butter right after baking for a richer flavor and golden finish.
– **Freezer-friendly**: These rolls freeze beautifully. Simply freeze the dough after the first rise, shape it into rolls, and then bake straight from the freezer when you’re ready for fresh rolls.
– **Sweet option**: Add a tablespoon of honey to the dough for a slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with breakfast or brunch.

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### **Final Thoughts:**

These **Fluffy Potato Dinner Rolls** are the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. The mashed potatoes ensure each bite is soft, tender, and delicious, while the simplicity of the recipe makes them an easy addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just want to impress with a homemade touch, these rolls will be a hit every time.

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Ready to make these fluffy beauties at home? Or need more ideas for side dishes to serve with them? Let me know—I’ve got plenty of baking inspiration to share! 🥔🍞