Name: Pan de Agua (Breakfast Bread Rolls)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Bread Flour (350 grams); 2 teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast; 1 tablespoon Salt; 1 cup Ice-Cold Water (236 milliliters); 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (or Olive Oil); 3 cups Hot Water; 2 tablespoons Room Temperature Water

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There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. This Pan de Agua recipe captures that essence beautifully, creating soft, airy rolls that are perfect for breakfast. These delightful bread rolls have a crispy exterior and a chewy interior, making them ideal for slathering with butter, dipping into your morning coffee, or enjoying alongside your favorite jam. Imagine starting your day with these warm, comforting rolls; they are sure to become a staple in your breakfast routine.

Why It’s My Go-To

Pan de Agua, or “water bread,” is not just any bread; it’s a beloved classic that has roots in many cultures. Its simplicity is what makes it so appealing. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something extraordinary. I love how versatile these rolls are. They can be enjoyed on their own, with spreads, or as a side to your favorite breakfast dishes. The texture is light and airy, yet satisfying enough to keep you full until lunchtime. Plus, making bread at home is an incredibly rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you dive into making these delightful rolls, here’s what you’ll need to gather:

Bread Flour (2 cups / 350 grams) – This is the foundation of your rolls, giving them structure and chewiness.
Instant Dry Yeast (2 teaspoons) – This helps the dough rise quickly and efficiently.
Salt (1 tablespoon) – A crucial ingredient that enhances the flavor of your bread.
Ice-Cold Water (1 cup / 236 milliliters) – The cold water helps control the fermentation process.
Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon) – This adds moisture to the rolls; you can also use olive oil.
Hot Water (3 cups) – Used to create steam in the oven for a crispy crust.
Room Temperature Water (2 tablespoons) – For misting the bread during baking, ensuring a nice crust.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

To create your Pan de Agua rolls, gather the following tools:

Mixing Bowl – For combining your ingredients.
Wooden Spoon or Dough Scraper – For mixing and kneading the dough.
Baking Sheet – Where your rolls will bake to perfection.
Parchment Paper – To line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
Spray Bottle – For misting water into the oven.
Kitchen Towel – To cover the dough while it rises.

From Start to Finish: Pan de Agua (Breakfast Bread Rolls)

Step 1: Mixing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, instant dry yeast, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution. Make a well in the center and pour in the ice-cold water and vegetable oil.

Step 2: Kneading the Dough

Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until they begin to come together. Once the dough forms, transfer it to a floured countertop and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.

Step 3: First Rise

Grease a clean bowl with a bit of oil, place the dough in the bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shaping the Rolls

Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal pieces, about 8-10, depending on the size of rolls you prefer. Shape each piece into a round ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave space between each roll.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they puff up.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). While the oven heats up, place an empty baking dish on the bottom rack. This will hold the hot water for steam.

Step 7: Baking the Rolls

Just before placing the rolls in the oven, carefully pour 3 cups of hot water into the baking dish. This steam will create a beautiful crust on your rolls. Mist the rolls with room temperature water from the spray bottle and place them in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Cooling

Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This will help maintain their texture.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

These Pan de Agua rolls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways throughout the year. Here are some ideas:

In spring, serve them with fresh herb butter or alongside a light salad.
In summer, they make a great addition to picnics, perfect for sandwiches.
In fall, enjoy them with pumpkin spice spreads or warm apple butter.
In winter, pair them with hearty soups or stews for a comforting meal.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

As you embark on your bread-making journey, keep these tips in mind to ensure your Pan de Agua turns out perfectly:

Make sure your yeast is fresh. Old yeast can lead to flat rolls.
Don’t skip the steam! It’s essential for creating that perfect crust.
Allow enough time for both rises; patience is key to achieving the best texture.
If your dough feels too wet, gradually add flour until it’s manageable, but avoid adding too much.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Pan de Agua rolls fresh, follow these storage tips:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the rolls by placing them in a zip-top bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for about 10 minutes to restore their freshness.

Ask & Learn

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may not be as chewy. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which contributes to the structure of the rolls.

What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, check the yeast’s freshness and ensure that your rising environment is warm. You can also try placing the dough in a slightly warm oven to encourage rising.

Can I add ingredients like herbs or cheese to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in herbs, cheese, or even spices to customize the flavor of your Pan de Agua rolls.

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C).

Let’s Eat

There’s nothing like the satisfaction of pulling a batch of homemade Pan de Agua (Breakfast Bread Rolls) from the oven. The crispy crust, soft interior, and delightful aroma will fill your home with warmth and comfort. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy these delightful rolls. Perfect for breakfast or any time of day, they are sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. Happy baking!