Table of Contents

Everything Rolls (Bread Machine)

The aroma of freshly baked bread is one of the most evocative scents for me. It instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, a place perpetually warm and fragrant with the promise of something delicious. I remember watching her knead dough with practiced ease, her hands dusted with flour, and the satisfaction on her face as she pulled a golden-brown loaf from the oven. These “Everything Rolls,” packed with savory flavors, remind me of those comforting moments and the simple joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6-12
Yield: 12 rolls
Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Rolls:

1 1/3 cups warm water
1/2 cup butter, softened
1-2 teaspoons McCormick Butter Flavor Extract (optional, see notes)
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
1 teaspoon sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons dry active yeast

Topping:

1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
1-2 teaspoons poppy seeds
1-2 teaspoons sesame seeds
1-2 teaspoons garlic powder
1-2 teaspoons onion powder

Ingredient Notes:

The McCormick Butter Flavor Extract is optional but adds a nice buttery depth to the rolls. If you don’t have it, you can omit it or substitute it with a few extra tablespoons of melted butter.
Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. If you’re unsure, proof it by dissolving it in a little warm water with a pinch of sugar. If it foams up after a few minutes, it’s good to go.
For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of white sugar.
Feel free to experiment with the topping! Everything bagel seasoning would be a great addition, or try adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Equipment Needed

Bread Machine
Measuring cups and spoons
Lightly greased 13×9 inch pan
Small bowl for egg wash
Pastry brush
Dry towel

Instructions

Begin by adding the warm water, softened butter, McCormick Butter Flavor Extract (if using), garlic salt, sugar, and all-purpose flour to the bread machine pan, in that order. The order is important for proper gluten development and yeast activation.
Make a small well in the center of the flour. Gently pour the dry active yeast into this well. This helps prevent the yeast from prematurely activating due to contact with the water before the flour is in place.
Select the dough cycle on your bread machine and start the cycle. The dough cycle will mix, knead, and perform the first rise for you.
Once the dough cycle is completed, carefully remove the dough from the bread machine. Place it on a lightly floured surface.
Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized rolls.
Place the rolls in a lightly greased 13×9 inch pan, spacing them evenly.
In a small bowl, beat the egg until smooth. This will serve as your egg wash, giving the rolls a beautiful golden-brown color and helping the topping adhere.
Using a pastry brush, brush the beaten egg evenly over the tops of all the rolls. Be careful not to let the egg drip down the sides of the rolls.
In a separate small bowl, combine the salt, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic powder, and onion powder. This is your “everything” topping, and it’s what gives these rolls their signature flavor.
Generously sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the egg-washed rolls.
Cover the rolls with a clean, dry towel.
Let the rolls rise in a very warm place for 30 minutes. This allows the yeast to activate and the rolls to become light and fluffy. A slightly warm oven (turned off!) or a sunny spot in your kitchen works well.
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Once the rolls have risen for 30 minutes, carefully place the pan in the preheated oven.
Bake the rolls for 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a roll. If it comes out clean, the rolls are ready.
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them.
After the brief cooling period, remove the rolls from the pan and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Tip for Soft Rolls: If you won’t be eating the rolls immediately, transfer them to a large bowl with a lid. Vent the lid slightly, making sure no rolls touch it. This prevents sogginess by allowing steam to escape while keeping the rolls from drying out. Let them cool completely in the vented bowl before sealing it completely.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Warm Ingredients are Key: Make sure that all of your ingredients, especially the water and butter, are warm. This will help the yeast activate properly and result in a fluffier roll. A warm room temperature also helps.
Don’t Over-Knead: Bread machines are great, but be mindful of the dough. If it seems overly sticky or wet after the dough cycle, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches a smooth, elastic consistency.
Customize Your Topping: Get creative with your “everything” topping! Add dried minced onion, flaked sea salt, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Egg Wash Alternatives: If you don’t have an egg or prefer not to use one, you can use milk or melted butter as an egg wash substitute. They won’t provide the same level of browning, but they will help the topping adhere.
Shiny Crust: For an extra shiny crust, brush the rolls with melted butter immediately after baking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these “Everything Rolls” warm as a side dish with soups, stews, salads, or alongside your favorite sandwiches. They’re also delicious on their own as a snack.

Storage:

Room Temperature: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	477 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	159 g	33%
Total Fat	17.7 g	27%
Saturated Fat	10.2 g	51%
Cholesterol	71.7 mg	23%
Sodium	539.2 mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	67 g	22%
Dietary Fiber	3.6 g	14%
Sugars	1.1 g	4%
Protein	11.7 g	23%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegan Rolls: Substitute the butter with vegan butter or margarine. Use a plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) to brush the rolls instead of the egg.
Whole Wheat Rolls: Replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Herb-Infused Rolls: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the dough for a more aromatic roll.
Cheese Rolls: Sprinkle shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) on top of the rolls before baking.
Sweet Rolls: Reduce the garlic salt to 1 teaspoon and add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar for sweeter rolls. Consider adding a glaze after baking.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make these rolls without a bread machine?
A: Yes, you can! Combine the ingredients in a large bowl and knead by hand or with a stand mixer until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes). Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size, before proceeding with the recipe.

Q: Why are my rolls not rising?
A: Several factors can affect the rise of your rolls. Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Ensure the water is warm, not hot, as hot water can kill the yeast. Also, the room temperature should be warm enough to facilitate the rising process.

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can. If using instant yeast, you don’t need to proof it beforehand. Simply add it directly to the flour along with the other dry ingredients.

Q: How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?
A: Avoid overbaking the rolls. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a roll; it should come out clean. Storing the rolls in an airtight container while they are slightly warm, and venting it properly, helps retain moisture.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake the rolls later?
A: Yes, you can. After the dough cycle is complete, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the dough from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then proceed with the recipe.

Final Thoughts

These “Everything Rolls” are more than just a side dish; they’re a delicious and satisfying way to elevate any meal. With their soft, fluffy texture and savory topping, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make them your own. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your creations and feedback with me. Pair them with a hearty soup on a chilly evening, or serve them alongside a grilled steak for a truly memorable meal. Happy baking!

Everything Rolls (Bread Machine) Recipe