Modern Parker House Rolls

Ingredients

• 1 cup Milk (Scalded)
• 4 tablespoons Butter (Divided)
• 2 tablespoons Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 3 cups All-purpose flour (Plus more for dusting)
• 1 Egg (For egg wash (optional))

Instructions

1. 1In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, sugar, and salt. Let cool to lukewarm (about 105-115°F).
2. 2Sprinkle the yeast over the lukewarm milk mixture and let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
3. 3In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the yeast mixture with 2 cups of flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until the dough comes together and is slightly sticky. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed.
4. 4Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. 5Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12x8 inch rectangle. Brush with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Cut the dough into 12 equal squares. Fold each square in half and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
7. 7Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls with egg wash (optional). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.