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Filipino Bread Rolls

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, and if you’ve ever had the pleasure of trying Filipino Bread Rolls (or Pandesal), you know just how special they can be! These little golden pillows of deliciousness are soft, fluffy, and perfect for slathering with butter or enjoying alongside your morning coffee. Did you know that Pandesal translates to "bread of salt," although they’re actually slightly sweet? This humble creation has a rich history in Filipino culture, often bringing families together for breakfast or as a delightful snack throughout the day. What makes Filipino Bread Rolls even more appealing is their simplicity – you don't need to be a master baker to whip these up! In under an hour, you can fill your kitchen with the mouthwatering scent of baking bread, and believe me, your family will thank you when they taste these soft, warm rolls. If you’ve tried other delightful bread recipes on this blog, like our classic dinner rolls, you’ll love how these compare in both flavor and ease. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to fall in love with this iconic Filipino treat!
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Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2.25 tsp instant yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 0.25 cup warm water
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter melted
  • Bread crumbs for coating

Instructions
 

  • Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 0.5 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2.25 teaspoons of instant yeast. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
  • Add Wet Ingredients: Slowly add in 1 cup of warm milk, 0.25 cup of warm water, and 0.25 cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This is where the magic happens—get those arms working!
  • First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  • Shape the Rolls: Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each piece into a ball, then coat with bread crumbs.
  • Second Rise: Arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet, cover them again with a towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  • Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
  • What to Serve Filipino Bread Rolls With
  • Filipino Bread Rolls are incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside a rich, creamy mushroom soup for a comforting meal or with a side of fried eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast. You could also enjoy them with some sweetened condensed milk or your favorite fruit preserves for a delightful dessert! The options are nearly endless, so get creative and find what you love!
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Filipino Bread Rolls
  • To perfect your Filipino Bread Rolls, consider these helpful tips:
  • Kneading: Ensure you knead the dough long enough to develop gluten for that lovely fluffy texture.
  • Rising: If your kitchen is cool, try placing the dough in a slightly warm oven to speed up the rising process.
  • Flavor Variations: Feel free to add flavors to your dough, like cinnamon or nutmeg, for an extra twist.
  • Don’t Skip the Coating: Rolling the dough in bread crumbs is traditional and gives it that classic Pandesal texture.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because they’re so delicious), here’s how to store them. Keep your Filipino Bread Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them – just make sure they’re sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in an oven to restore that lovely softness, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
  • Baking Filipino Bread Rolls at home is not just a delicious adventure, it's a way to share a piece of Filipino culture with your family and friends. So roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try – you won't regret it!