Classic Make-Ahead Dinner Rolls for Family Gatherings
Few homemade breads are as convenient—or as beloved—as Reeder Refrigerator Rolls. This classic yeast roll recipe allows the dough to rest in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, and large family gatherings. When it’s time to bake, the dough is simply shaped into rolls, allowed to rise, and baked until beautifully golden.
Featured in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, these rolls reflect the practical wisdom passed through generations of home bakers. By preparing the dough ahead of time, families could enjoy fresh, warm rolls straight from the oven without spending the entire day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 package active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water (110 to 115°F)
- 1 cup milk, scalded
- 2/3 cup Crisco Shortening
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup mashed potatoes
- 2 eggs
- 6–6½ cups all-purpose flour
- Butter Flavor Crisco, melted, optional
Makes: 3 dozen rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the warm water in a small bowl and let it stand until softened.
- In a large mixing bowl, pour the hot scalded milk over the Crisco Shortening, sugar, and salt. Stir until the shortening has completely melted.
- Mix in the mashed potatoes, then beat in the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition.
- Add the softened yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Mix in 1 cup of the flour, then gradually add enough of the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes before kneading until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased deep bowl, turning it once so the top is lightly coated. Cover tightly and refrigerate for 1 to 3 days.
- About 2 hours before baking, shape the dough into rolls. Cover and allow them to rise until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Bake the rolls for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown.
- If desired, brush the warm rolls with melted Butter Flavor Crisco before serving.
Pro Tips & Suggestions
- Mashed potatoes help create exceptionally soft, tender rolls that stay fresh longer.
- Refrigerating the dough develops even more flavor, making this an excellent make-ahead recipe.
- Allow the shaped rolls to fully double before baking for the lightest texture.
- Brush the hot rolls with melted butter if you prefer a rich, buttery finish.
- Serve alongside fried chicken, ham, roasted meats, or holiday dinners for a traditional Southern meal.
About the Creator
The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) compiled The Black Family Reunion Cookbook to preserve African American culinary traditions, treasured family recipes, and the stories that accompany them. Through recipes and food memories contributed by families throughout the United States, the cookbook celebrates the importance of gathering around the table while honoring Black history, culture, and community.
The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. The cookbook is a remarkable collection of heritage recipes, family traditions, and personal stories celebrating African American cooking, Southern hospitality, and the enduring role food plays in bringing generations together.
