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Clover Shaped Rolls

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Soft, fluffy homemade clover rolls shaped with three dough balls tucked into a muffin tin. These are a fun bread-baking project for kids—perfect for holiday dinners or any meal that needs warm rolls fresh from the oven.
  • Category: Bread
  • Oven: 350°F
  • Skill Level: Intermediate
homemade clover rolls baked-KCA

Prep: 20 minutes | Rise: 1 hour | Bake: 15–20 minutes | Yield: About 12 rolls

Ingredients

  • 2 cups warm milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar, divided
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon yeast
  • ¼ cup warm water
  • 1 egg
  • 6 cups flour (plus extra for kneading)
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for the bowl)

Instructions

  1. In a microwave-safe dish, warm milk and butter for about 1 minute, or until butter melts (milk should be warm, not hot).
  2. Stir salt and 1 tablespoon sugar into the warm milk mixture. Pour into a mixing bowl.
  3. Mix in 3 cups flour until a thick batter forms.
  4. In a small bowl, combine warm water, remaining 1 tablespoon sugar, and yeast. Let sit 1–2 minutes until foamy.
  5. Add yeast mixture and the egg to the mixing bowl. Stir to combine.
  6. Mix in the remaining 3 cups flour until a soft dough forms.
  7. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for several minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  8. Lightly oil a bowl. Place dough inside, cover with a towel, and let rise about 1 hour (until doubled).
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a muffin tin.
  10. Punch down dough and roll into small balls. Place 3 balls into each muffin cup to make a “three-leaf clover” shape.
  11. Bake 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool slightly and serve warm.

Kid-Friendly Tips

  • Kids can help measure flour, stir dough, and roll dough balls
  • Let kids “build the clovers” by placing 3 balls in each muffin cup
  • Adults should handle the oven and kneading if needed

Serving Ideas

  • Brush warm rolls with melted butter
  • Serve with soup, chili, or holiday dinner
  • Use leftovers for mini sandwiches

Notes

If yeast does not foam in the warm water, the water may be too hot or the yeast may be old. Milk and water should feel warm like bath water—not steaming hot.

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Recipe, image and content from Kids-Cooking-Activities.com