Soft & Delicious Sweet Potato Bread Rolls

These rolls are soft, fluffy, and subtly sweet, making them a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Plus, they are packed with the goodness of sweet potatoes, which not only add a lovely color but also a boost of nutrients.

Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown roll that’s slightly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, with a hint of sweetness from the sweet potatoes. Whether you're preparing a family dinner, hosting a special gathering, or simply looking to experiment with new bread recipes, these rolls are sure to impress. Let's dive into the recipe and bake some magic!

Why You’ll Love These Sweet Potato Bread Rolls

Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to these bread rolls. They are incredibly easy to make, and the ingredients are simple and wholesome. The result? Warm, golden-brown rolls that are both nutritious and delicious. Plus, they pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or simply with a pat of butter.

Ingredients

Lukewarm Milk: This helps to activate the yeast and create a tender crumb. You can substitute with any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

Yeast: Essential for the dough to rise and become light and fluffy. You can use either active dry yeast or instant yeast. If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step.

Sugar or Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness and feeds the yeast. Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer a different flavour.

Egg: Contributes to the structure and richness of the rolls. For a vegan alternative, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).

Sweet Potato Puree: Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a beautiful orange colour. You can use canned sweet potato puree or make your own by steaming and mashing fresh sweet potatoes.

Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps to keep the rolls tender. Olive oil gives a subtle flavour, while butter adds a more traditional taste. You can also use coconut oil or any neutral oil.

Flour: The backbone of the rolls. All-purpose flour works great, but you can also use bread flour for a chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a more wholesome roll. If using whole wheat flour, you might need a bit more liquid.

Salt: Enhances the flavours and balances the sweetness. Don’t skip it, as it also helps to control the yeast activity.

Sesame Seeds (optional): For a nutty crunch on top. You can substitute with poppy seeds, or chia seeds, or leave them out altogether.

Notes

  • Feel free to get creative with the toppings or add-ins. Herbs, cheese, or even nuts can be mixed into the dough or sprinkled on top.

  • Adjust the amount of flour based on the humidity and the exact moisture content of your sweet potato puree. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but manageable.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Sweet Potato Bread Rolls

Prepare the Sweet Potato and Activate the Yeast: Start by steaming your sweet potato until it is tender, usually around 15-20 minutes. Once it's cooked, let it cool slightly, peel off the skin, and mash it until smooth. While the sweet potato is cooling, pour lukewarm milk into a large mixing bowl. The milk should be warm but not hot, about 110°F (43°C). Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and add the sugar or honey. Stir gently to dissolve and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.

Mix the Dough: Add the mashed sweet potato and the egg to the yeast mixture and mix until well combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, starting with 3 cups of flour. Mix until the dough begins to come together, adding more flour if needed to reach a slightly sticky but manageable consistency. Knead the dough by hand or in a stand mixer for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add the olive oil or melted butter and knead for an additional 5 minutes to incorporate it fully into the dough.

Let the Dough Rise and Shape the Rolls: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest in a warm, draft-free area for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size. Once risen, punch down the dough to release air and divide it into 8 equal parts. Roll each piece into a flat rectangle, fold in the sides, and roll it up into a log shape. Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between them to allow for expansion during the second rise.

Final Rise, Egg Wash, and Baking: Let the shaped rolls rest for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 185°C (365°F). Before baking, brush each roll with an egg wash (a beaten egg) to give them a glossy finish. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, delicious sweet potato bread rolls with your favorite spread or as a delightful side to any meal.

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Sweet - Potato Bread Rolls

Prep- 30 mins

Proofing Time- 1.5 hours

Yields- 9

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup lukewarm milk

  • 2 1/4 tsp yeast

  • 2 tbsp sugar or honey

  • 1 egg

  • 3/4 cup sweet potato puree

  • 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

  • 3-4 cups flour

  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato:

  • Start by steaming your sweet potato until it is tender. Once it’s cooked, remove the peel and mash it until smooth to create your sweet potato puree.

2. Activate the Yeast:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and sugar or honey. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

3. Mix the Dough:

  • Add the egg and sweet potato puree to the yeast mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

  • Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture. Start with 3 cups of flour and add more as needed until the dough begins to come together.

4. Knead the Dough:

  • Knead the dough by hand or in a stand mixer for about 10-15 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.

  • Once the dough is smooth, add the olive oil or melted butter. Continue kneading for an additional 5 minutes.

5. First Rise:

  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

6. Shape the Rolls:

  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts.

  • Roll each piece out into a flat rectangle, then fold in the sides and roll it up into a log shape. Place each roll on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

7. Second Rise:

  • Let the rolls rest for another 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 185°C (365°F).

8. Prepare for Baking:

  • Brush each roll with an egg wash (simply beat an egg and brush it over the tops of the rolls). Sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.

9. Bake:

  • Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.

10. Enjoy:

  • Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite spread or alongside your meal.

These Sweet Potato Bread Rolls are a wonderful addition to any meal, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and fluffiness. They are not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve perfect results. Happy baking!