- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, flour, and salt.
- Mix until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead the dough on medium speed for 5-7 minutes. If kneading by hand, knead on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat the dough with oil.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Chapter 3: Shaping and Air Frying
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by gently pulling the dough edges underneath to create a smooth top.
- Grease the Air Fryer Basket:
- Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry the Rolls:
- Place the shaped rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for expansion.
- Lightly spray the tops of the rolls with cooking spray or oil.
- Cooking Time:
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and cooked through. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Chapter 4: Serving
- Serve Warm:
- Carefully remove the air fryer rolls from the basket using tongs or a spatula.
- Transfer the rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the air fryer rolls warm as a delicious side dish or with your favorite spreads.
Chapter 5: Tips for Success
- Yeast Activation: Ensure the yeast is activated properly by using warm water and allowing it to foam before adding to the dough.
- Uniform Size: Shape the rolls into evenly sized balls to ensure even cooking.
- Air Fryer Capacity: Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can affect the cooking process.
- Variations: Brush the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt or herbs before air frying for added flavor.
Conclusion
Air fryer rolls are a convenient and delicious addition to any meal, providing soft and fluffy bread with a golden-brown crust. This recipe allows you to enjoy homemade dinner rolls quickly and easily, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Experiment with different flavors and enjoy freshly baked rolls straight from your air fryer!