Caramel rolls are a decadent treat, but making them from scratch can be time-consuming. This recipe uses Rhodes dinner rolls as a shortcut, allowing you to enjoy these gooey, sweet delights with minimal effort. The result? Soft, fluffy rolls with a rich caramel topping that's simply irresistible. Let's get baking!
What are Rhodes Rolls?
Rhodes rolls are a popular brand of frozen bread dough. They’re pre-proofed, meaning they’ve already undergone a portion of the rising process. This significantly reduces the time needed for preparation, making them ideal for busy bakers who still want delicious homemade results. Their texture is known for being soft and slightly sweet, making them an excellent base for caramel rolls.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 package (20 count) Rhodes frozen dinner rolls, thawed overnight in the refrigerator
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: Chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prepare the Dough: Gently separate the thawed Rhodes rolls. You don’t need to knead them—simply let them rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften further.
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Make the Caramel Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
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Assemble the Rolls: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. Arrange the Rhodes rolls in the prepared pan. Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the rolls, ensuring they're well coated. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the top now.
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the caramel is bubbly. Keep a close eye on them during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.
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Drizzle with Caramel: Once out of the oven, immediately drizzle the additional caramel sauce generously over the warm rolls. This adds extra richness and shine.
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Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly in the pan before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, but they’re still delicious at room temperature.
How Long Do Rhodes Caramel Rolls Take to Make?
The beauty of using Rhodes rolls is the reduced prep time. While thawing overnight adds a step, the actual hands-on preparation time is minimal – approximately 15-20 minutes, excluding baking time.
Can I Use Other Types of Rolls?
While Rhodes rolls are highly recommended for their texture and ease of use, you can experiment with other frozen or refrigerated dinner rolls. Keep in mind that the baking time may need adjusting based on the type of roll you choose.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover caramel rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Tips for the Best Caramel Rolls
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the rolls enough space to rise and bake evenly.
- Use quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your caramel rolls will taste.
- Watch them closely while baking: Overbaking can lead to dry rolls.
- Let them cool slightly before serving: This allows the caramel to set and prevents burns.
These easy caramel rolls made with Rhodes dinner rolls are a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious results and the convenience of this shortcut recipe!
