Name: Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 3 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (240g/ml) water, warmed to about 110°F (43°C); 1/3 cup (80g/ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C); 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature and cut into 4 pieces; 3 tablespoons (64g) molasses (do not use blackstrap; preferred Grandma’s brand); 1 egg white beaten with 1 teaspoon of water (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon (9g) Platinum Yeast from Red Star instant yeast; 3 tablespoons light or dark brown sugar, divided; 1 cup (85g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats, plus more for topping; 3 and 1/2 cups (455g) bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed; 1 teaspoon salt

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If you’ve been searching for the perfect soft, slightly sweet, and oh-so-fluffy bread to elevate your meals, then this Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe is about to become your new best friend. These rolls pack a wonderful depth of flavor thanks to molasses and oats, with an irresistibly tender crumb and a golden brown crust topped with a sprinkle of oats for that extra warmth and texture. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty stew or slipping them into dinner sandwiches, these rolls will have you coming back for seconds—guaranteed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl placed on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl is a bubbly, light beige frothy mixture, covering the bottom fully with small bubbles and a slightly uneven texture. A light blue hand mixer with a dark metal whisk attachment is positioned above the bowl, blending the frothy mixture. The scene is softly lit, focusing on the texture of the mixture and the clear glass bowl photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be intimidated by the ingredients list because these simple but essential staples come together perfectly to create rolls that are tender, flavorful, and beautifully textured. Each component plays its role—from the molasses lending a subtle sweetness and rich color, to the oats contributing a lovely rustic chew and heartiness.

Water, warmed to 110°F (43°C): Activates the yeast and helps develop gluten in the dough.
Whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C): Adds richness and tenderness to the rolls.
Platinum yeast (instant): The powerhouse that makes your dough rise beautifully and quickly.
Light or dark brown sugar: Enhances moisture and adds a subtle caramel flavor.
Molasses (not blackstrap): Brings that signature deep, warm sweetness and beautiful dark hue.
Unsalted butter, softened: Offers a luscious, tender crumb and richness.
Old-fashioned whole rolled oats: Creates texture inside the dough and a lovely rustic topping.
Bread flour: Gives the rolls structure and chewiness for that classic dinner roll texture.
Salt: Balances flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the molasses.
Egg white wash: For that glossy, golden finish that makes the rolls irresistible.

How to Make Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by whisking together the warm water, milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. This mixture needs time—about 5 to 10 minutes—to become foamy and frothy on top. This is the signal that your yeast is alive and kicking, ready to work its magic and help your dough rise perfectly.

Step 2: Mix the Dough Ingredients

Next, add the remaining brown sugar, molasses, butter, oats, salt, and 1 cup of bread flour. Use a dough hook or paddle attachment at low speed for a minute to combine. Stop to scrape down the bowl, then pour in the remaining flour gradually until the dough starts pulling away from the sides. The dough should feel soft and slightly sticky—exactly as it should be for a tender roll.

Step 3: Knead the Dough Until Smooth

Keep kneading—either with your stand mixer or by hand—for 5 to 8 minutes. This develops the gluten, giving your rolls that perfect chewy softness. If the dough feels too sticky to handle, sprinkle just a little flour at a time until manageable, but don’t overdo it—the dough must stay moist for the best texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough inside, and turn it so every side is coated. Cover it well with plastic wrap or a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s roughly doubled in size and looks light and airy.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

After the dough has puffed up, punch it down gently to release excess air and divide into 15 equal portions. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by stretching the top and pinching the bottom closed—this keeps the rolls tight and smooth. Arrange them comfortably in your greased or lined baking pan, giving them space to puff up once more.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls loosely and let them rise again for 30 to 60 minutes until nice and puffy. This extra rest ensures your rolls come out tender and beautifully risen after baking.

Step 7: Bake Your Rolls to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), placing the rack low to prevent the tops from burning. Brush the rolls gently with the egg white wash, sprinkle with oats for that signature rustic look, and pop them in the oven for 26 to 27 minutes. Keep an eye on them and cover with foil if they brown too fast. Check they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C). Then, let them cool slightly—you’ll barely be able to wait that long!

How to Serve Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe

A clear glass baking dish lined with brown parchment paper holds 15 golden brown soft bread rolls arranged in a 3 by 5 grid. Each roll has a shiny surface topped with scattered pale oat flakes. One roll in the bottom left corner is pulled apart, showing a fluffy, light brown inside. The dish is set on a white marbled textured surface, with a knife with cream on the left side and two white bowls filled with creamy soup garnished with herbs on the top right. A folded light pink and beige striped cloth is placed on the bottom right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple brush of melted butter right after baking adds extra richness and shine, making your rolls smell even more inviting. For a savory twist, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme atop the butter for an herbal note that complements the molasses.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine alongside everything from hearty soups and stews to festive holiday dinners. Try them with a steaming bowl of butternut squash soup, a robust beef pot roast, or a savory mushroom gravy—the slight sweetness of the molasses pairs beautifully with savory dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, arrange your rolled-up balls in a cast-iron skillet or line them closely in a baking dish for pull-apart rolls perfect for sharing. You could also slice the rolls horizontally once cool and turn them into mini sliders with turkey, cranberry sauce, or a smear of honey butter for an unexpected treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover rolls fresh by storing them tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend the life a bit longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, making sure they are wrapped well so they don’t dry out.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! Once fully cooled, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature for the freshest texture, ready to be warmed and enjoyed.

Reheating

To revive that freshly baked feeling, warm rolls in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20 to 30 seconds for a quick fix, though oven reheating keeps the crust just right.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

Quick oats are more processed and don’t hold their shape the same way old-fashioned oats do, which may affect the texture inside the rolls and the look on top. Sticking with old-fashioned whole rolled oats will give you the best rustic chew and appearance.

What can I substitute for molasses if I don’t have any?

Molasses has a unique flavor and moisture profile, so substitutes like dark corn syrup, honey, or maple syrup can work in a pinch but will change the flavor and color slightly. If you try a substitute, reduce added sugars elsewhere to keep balance.

Can I make this recipe by hand without a mixer?

Absolutely! The recipe is designed so you can mix the initial wet ingredients by hand and knead the dough on a lightly floured surface. Just be prepared for some elbow grease during kneading, but it’s totally doable and rewarding.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

The best way is to check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer—it should read 190°F (88°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, look for a deep golden brown color and that the rolls sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can these rolls be made vegan?

With a few tweaks, yes! You can swap milk with plant-based milk, butter with vegan margarine, and replace the egg wash with a mix of water and maple syrup or nondairy milk for browning. Just note the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

You are going to love the cozy, wholesome charm of the Oatmeal Molasses Dinner Rolls Recipe. It’s not just a roll; it’s a warm, inviting experience that brings a touch of homemade comfort to every meal. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into baking these gems—you’ll find they quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen and on your table.