Soft Corn Milk Bread Rolls
Yield: 12 rolls
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1½–2 hours
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: About 2½–3 hours
Ingredients
Corn Mixture
- 1 cup (165 g) sweet corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (105–110°F / 40–43°C)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
Dough
- 4½ cups (560 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons (7 g) instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup (56 g) unsalted butter, softened
For the Pan
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
Optional Topping
- Melted butter
- Fine cornmeal or semolina for a light dusting (as shown)
- Honey for brushing after baking
Equipment
- Blender
- Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Corn
Place the corn, warm milk, and eggs in a blender.
Blend until completely smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl combine:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Instant yeast
- Salt
Add:
- Blended corn mixture
- Soft butter
Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead
Knead by hand for 10–12 minutes or with a stand mixer for 8–10 minutes.
The dough should become:
- Smooth
- Soft
- Slightly tacky
- Elastic
Avoid adding too much flour.
Step 4: First Rise
Place dough into a lightly greased bowl.
Cover.
Let rise for 60–90 minutes until doubled.
Step 5: Shape
Punch down gently.
Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 85–90 g each).
Roll into smooth balls.
Arrange in a greased 9×13-inch pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover.
Allow to rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy and touching.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 20–25 minutes until:
- Golden brown
- Internal temperature reaches about 190°F (88°C)
Step 8: Finish
Brush immediately with melted butter.
Cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information (Approximate, per roll)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 225 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 37 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
| Cholesterol | 42 mg |
| Calcium | 5% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
Nutrition values are estimates and vary depending on the ingredients used.
Helpful Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients for better rising.
- Do not overheat the milk, as it can kill the yeast.
- Knead until the dough passes the “windowpane test” (it stretches thin without tearing).
- For extra-soft rolls, brush with butter immediately after baking and cover with a towel while cooling.
Flavor Variations
- Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix in chopped jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder and herbs.
- Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking.
- Add a tablespoon of honey to the dough for a sweeter roll.
Storage
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator:
Up to 1 week.
Freezer:
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I use canned corn?
Yes. Drain it well before blending.
Q: Can I use frozen corn?
Yes. Thaw and pat dry first.
Q: Can I substitute bread flour?
Yes. Bread flour gives a slightly chewier texture and better rise.
Q: Why didn’t my dough rise?
Common reasons include expired yeast, milk that was too hot, a cold room, or not allowing enough rising time.
Q: Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes. After the first rise, refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature, shape, allow the second rise, and bake.
Q: Can I make these without eggs?
Yes. Replace each egg with ¼ cup plain yogurt or use a commercial egg replacer, though the rolls may be slightly less rich.
Q: Why are my rolls dense?
This usually happens if too much flour is added, the dough is under-kneaded, or it didn’t rise long enough.
Q: How do I keep the rolls soft?
Brush them with melted butter after baking and store them in an airtight container once completely cool.
Q: What pairs well with these rolls?
They are delicious with soups, stews, chili, roasted meats, barbecue, or simply served warm with butter and honey.
