Dinner rolls are a staple on many North American holiday tables, often served warm with butter alongside the main feast. While homemade rolls are ideal, store-bought options provide a convenient alternative when time is short. A recent taste test evaluated seven widely available brands to determine which delivers the best quality and flavor.
Зміст
The Taste Test
The evaluation involved a blind tasting of seven brands: Beigel’s, King’s Hawaiian, Martin’s, Pepperidge Farm (twice), Stop & Shop, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods Market. Editors sampled each roll plain, in random order, to eliminate bias. The goal was to identify rolls that were moist, tender, and balanced in flavor—not overly sweet or dry.
Key Findings: Ingredients Matter
The ingredients list revealed common elements across all brands: flour, water, sugar, yeast, salt, and fats like oil or butter. Many included wheat gluten (to boost protein and structure), DATEM (an emulsifier for texture), dough conditioners, preservatives, and colorings. The winning rolls stood out by avoiding artificial preservatives and anti-caking agents.
Winner: Whole Foods Market Brioche Rolls
Whole Foods Market’s brioche rolls earned the top spot. Testers praised their tender texture, pleasant yeasted flavor, and substantial feel. Notably, these rolls were the only sample made with milk powder, which contributes to browning and a richer flavor. The absence of preservatives was also a plus.
Runners-Up
Trader Joe’s Dinner Rolls secured a runner-up position with their chewy, crusty texture and buttery flavor. Testers noted their heftier build, making them suitable for those who prefer a denser roll.
Pepperidge Farm’s Farmhouse Hearty White Dinner Rolls also performed well, praised for their softness. Despite containing preservatives intended to maintain freshness, some testers found them slightly dry, suggesting that a side of gravy or butter might be needed.
Why This Matters
The demand for convenient holiday foods drives a massive market for pre-made rolls. Consumers are willing to pay for quality, but the sheer number of options makes choosing difficult. The trend toward “cleaner” ingredients (fewer preservatives, natural fats) is also gaining traction, influencing which brands succeed.
Conclusion
For a reliable, high-quality store-bought dinner roll, Whole Foods Market’s brioche rolls are the clear winner. Trader Joe’s and Pepperidge Farm offer solid alternatives, but the winning rolls stood out for their superior texture, flavor, and ingredient profile. Ultimately, any of these options will enhance your Thanksgiving spread when warmed and paired with butter or gravy.
