Artisan Roll Recipe: Easy Steps for Perfect Homemade Rolls

There’s something undeniably charming about artisan rolls — those beautifully crusty, golden-brown breads with a tender, airy crumb that make every meal feel just a little more special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, crafting your own artisan rolls at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fresh bread.

These rolls are perfect for sandwiches, alongside hearty soups, or simply slathered with butter for a cozy snack. Plus, making them from scratch means you control every ingredient, ensuring freshness and quality.

In this detailed recipe, I’ll walk you through the simple yet transformative process of making artisan rolls that boast a perfect crust and soft interior. No fancy equipment needed—just a little patience and love for baking.

Ready to impress your friends and family with bakery-quality rolls? Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This artisan roll recipe is designed for simplicity and deliciousness. It requires minimal ingredients—just flour, water, yeast, salt, and a touch of olive oil—but yields bakery-quality rolls that are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.

The slow fermentation process develops deep flavor and a wonderfully chewy texture. These rolls are incredibly versatile, perfect for everything from breakfast sandwiches to dinner sides.

Plus, the dough is forgiving, making it a great choice for beginners looking to build confidence in bread baking.

Finally, this recipe doesn’t rely on complicated techniques or special bread machines, meaning you can make artisan rolls anytime with just a few kitchen staples.

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups (420g) bread flour – high-protein flour for a great structure
• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm water – about 100°F (38°C) to activate the yeast
• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tsp salt – enhances flavor and controls fermentation
• 2 tbsp olive oil – adds moisture and richness
• Optional: 1 tbsp sugar or honey – for a slight sweetness and to help yeast activation

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen scale (optional but recommended for accuracy)
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking sheet or stone
• Parchment paper
• Oven with steam capability or a pan for water
• Dough scraper or spatula (optional)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In your large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. If using, stir in sugar or honey. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is alive and active.
2. Mix the dough: Add the bread flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough whisk until a shaggy dough forms. Pour in the olive oil and continue mixing until incorporated.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 6-7 minutes. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
5. Shape the rolls: Gently deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions using a dough scraper or knife. Shape each piece into a tight ball by folding the edges underneath to create surface tension on top.
6. Second rise: Arrange the rolls spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a towel and allow them to rise for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, until puffy and nearly doubled.
7. Prepare to bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a baking stone inside if you have one. Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack to create steam.
8. Score and steam: Just before baking, use a sharp knife or lame to make 1-2 shallow slashes on top of each roll. Pour a cup of hot water into the shallow pan to create steam and quickly close the oven door.
9. Bake: Bake the rolls on the middle rack for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crusty. The internal temperature should reach about 200°F (93°C).
10. Cool: Remove the rolls from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For an even better crust, sprinkle a little water on the rolls before baking or brush with olive oil after baking for a softer crust.

Variation: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist. For a touch of sweetness, mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives.

Make it whole grain: Substitute half the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and denser texture, adjusting water as needed.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Artisan rolls are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide range of dishes. They’re perfect for making gourmet sandwiches with fresh veggies and your favorite spreads.

Try them alongside hearty soups or stews—especially creamy tomato or vegetable soups, like the Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

For a quick snack, slice and toast these rolls, then top with avocado or a simple olive oil and herb dip. They also make an excellent base for breakfast sandwiches or can be served simply with butter and jam for a cozy treat.

Conclusion

Making artisan rolls at home is a fulfilling way to elevate your baking skills and enjoy fresh, flavorful bread whenever you like. This recipe balances simplicity with the classic qualities that make artisan bread so beloved—the perfect crust, airy crumb, and rich flavor.

With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you’ll create rolls that taste like they came straight from a bakery. Whether you’re enjoying them as sandwich buns, soup companions, or a tasty snack, these artisan rolls are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Once you’ve mastered this recipe, explore more delightful ideas like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or the Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious for even more culinary inspiration.

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