Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls Recipe

If you’re always dreaming of pillowy-soft, golden rolls that deliver wholesome flavor and can be made ahead for effortless entertaining, these Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls belong at the top of your to-bake list. They strike that perfect balance: a nutty, slightly sweet taste from spelt flour, a delicate honey aroma you catch the instant they come out of the oven, and an oh-so-soft crumb that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday meal or craving homemade bread on a busy weeknight, these rolls promise fresh-baked bliss with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls is that the ingredient list is short, thoughtful, and each item plays a starring role. From rich olive oil to aromatic honey, these essentials combine to create truly special rolls with wholesome taste and incredible texture.

• All-purpose spelt flour: Brings mild, nutty flavor and helps the rolls stay extra soft.
• Whole grain spelt flour: Adds heartiness and rustic depth to the crumb.
• Instant yeast: Ensures a reliable, rapid rise and lighter rolls every time.
• Sugar: Just a hint, to boost the yeast and help the tops brown beautifully.
• Salt: Don’t skip it; salt sharpens and balances the natural sweetness.
• Honey: The secret touch for a subtle sweetness and beautiful golden hue.
• Olive oil: Lends richness and keeps the rolls incredibly moist and tender.
• Warm water: Essential for activating yeast and binding everything into a smooth dough.

How to Make Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by gathering your spelt flours, yeast, salt, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer. Use a wire whisk (or a trusty wooden spoon) to combine them thoroughly. This little extra step evenly disperses the yeast and ensures your rolls will rise beautifully, setting you up for that cloud-like texture we’re chasing.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients and Mix Dough

Pour in the honey and olive oil, then slowly add your warm water with the dough hook running on medium speed. Add just enough water for the dough to come together — you want it a touch sticky, but not runny. Be mindful not to overmix; spelt likes a gentle hand and rewards you with a soft, supple dough.

Step 3: Knead and First Rise

Turn the dough out on a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand until smooth and elastic, about 2 to 3 minutes. Place your dough ball in a greased bowl, turning to coat it fully in oil. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size — about one hour if your kitchen is nice and cozy. This is where the magic (and flavor) develops!

Step 4: Shape and Freeze

Punch down your risen dough, reveling in that puffed-up softness. Cover two large baking sheets with parchment or wax paper and give them a quick mist of nonstick spray. Divide the dough into 24 pieces, then use your floured hands to shape each one into a neat little ball. Arrange them an inch apart on your prepared sheets, cover, and freeze until firm. For long-term storage, transfer the frozen balls to a resealable freezer bag. Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls hold beautifully for up to two months in the freezer, so you’ll always have fresh bread on hand!

Step 5: Thaw and Second Rise

When you’re ready to bake, pop the frozen dough balls into muffin tins (or on a baking sheet), misted with nonstick spray. Cover with a towel and let them rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours. Don’t worry if the wait feels long — this is where that signature airy texture forms.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Once the rolls have puffed up, uncover and bake for 17 to 20 minutes, until lightly golden and your kitchen fills with that irresistible fresh-baked aroma. Let the rolls cool in the pan for five minutes, then pop them out onto a rack. You’ll want to snag one while still warm — it’s bread bliss!

Step 7: Same-Day Baking Option

If you’re too excited to wait, shape the rolls and place them straight into muffin tins. Let them rise for just 35 to 40 minutes, then bake as above. You get the same pillowy Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls, only faster!

How to Serve Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a quick brush of melted butter just before serving adds lovely shine and flavor. For something extra-special, try brushing warm rolls with a little more honey or a dusting of sesame seeds.

Side Dishes

Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls are incredibly versatile: perfect for soaking up homemade soups, pairing with roast chicken, or mopping up every drop of gravy. They also shine on brunch tables with creamy scrambled eggs or alongside vibrant salads.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t limit yourself to bread baskets! Try splitting and toasting the rolls for sliders, or stuffing them with fresh greens and your favorite cheese for a homemade sandwich. They’re perfect for picnics or as the base for savory bread pudding, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls keep beautifully in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to two days. If you won’t enjoy them all straight away, move extras to the freezer to maintain their freshness and amazing texture.

Freezing

For maximum convenience, freeze the shaped but unbaked dough as outlined. If you have leftover baked rolls, they can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to one month. Thaw overnight at room temperature or gently reheat while still frozen as needed.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked magic, warm rolls (thawed or frozen) in a 300°F oven for 5-8 minutes. Cover loosely with foil during reheating to keep them pillowy and moist. A quick steam in the microwave is also great for day-old rolls — just wrap them in a damp paper towel.

FAQs

Can I use only whole grain spelt flour for these rolls?

You can, but the rolls will be a bit denser. Mixing all-purpose and whole grain spelt gives you the perfect balance of lightness and hearty flavor that makes Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls so special.

How far in advance can I freeze the unbaked dough?

Once frozen, the dough balls stay in peak condition for up to two months. Label your freezer bag with the date and you’ll always know when you tucked those Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls away for a future treat!

Is it okay to let the rolls rise overnight in the fridge instead of at room temperature?

Absolutely! An overnight fridge rise develops even more flavor. Take the rolls out an hour before baking to come to room temperature and finish rising until doubled in size.

Do I have to bake the rolls in muffin tins?

Nope! While muffin tins help give that picture-perfect domed top, you can space the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake them as pull-apart rolls. Both look and taste fantastic!

Can I substitute maple syrup or another sweetener for honey?

Yes, you can swap in maple syrup for a slightly different flavor, or use agave. Keep in mind it might change the color and taste subtly, but Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls will still be deliciously soft and fragrant.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re serving a crowd or just craving your own daily bread, there’s something so inviting about the aroma and flavor of Make Ahead Honey Spelt Rolls. Once you experience how easy it is to have fresh, homemade rolls on a whim, you might never go back to store-bought! Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for these again and again — so bake up a batch and share the warmth.

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