Pocketbook Rolls

Don’t let any proud Southerner know that our delicate and beloved pocketbook rolls, named for their folded dough resembling small purses or pocketbooks, bear a striking resemblance to the famous Parker House rolls originating from Boston. These rolls require a longer rising time of at least 2 hours to achieve their desired feathery texture when baked, setting them apart from simpler yeast rolls. Interestingly, these rolls freeze exceptionally well. If you plan to freeze them, bake them for no longer than 5 minutes, allow them to cool, store them in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to serve, reheat them in a preheated 400°F oven for approximately 5 minutes or until they turn golden.

Makes about 2 dozen rolls

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 envelope active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup lukewarm whole milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable shortening, at room temperature
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, melted

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small bowl, combine the yeast and milk and let it proof until bubbly, about 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the shortening, room-temperature butter, and sugar using an electric mixer. Gradually beat in the boiling water.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the bowl and stir until well blended. Then add the beaten egg and stir until well blended.
4. Sift in the flour, add the salt, and mix well to form a dough. The mixture can be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap, for up to 1 week.
5. Three hours before you’re ready to use the dough, roll it out on a floured surface to a 1/2-inch thickness. Cut the dough into rounds using a 2- to 2 1/2-inch biscuit cutter.
6. Fold each round in half, resembling small purses or pocketbooks, and place them on a large greased baking sheet.
7. Generously brush each roll with the melted butter, cover them with a towel, and let them rise in a warm area for about 2 1/2 hours.
8. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
9. Bake the rolls until they turn golden brown, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. If you plan to freeze some of the rolls, remove them from the oven after 5 minutes, let them cool, and store them tightly wrapped in aluminum foil.
10. Serve the peanut butter rolls hot and enjoy their delicious flavor and feathery texture.