green pastures cotillion rolls

Green Pastures was classic.  A fabulous historic home (built in 1894) turned restaurant nestled in deep south Austin where peacocks perched on the branches of low lying live oak trees. Will and I went to Green Pastures for Easter brunch and special dinners with folks ~ and my bridal shower was even hosted there. So when I heard they closed down, this native Austinite’s heart died a little bit.

My niece, Kate, and I were bemoaning the fact we’d never taste their cotillion rolls again so I decided to go on the hunt for recipe and I’m so relieved to say I think I might have found it.

Yesterday when I should have been spending time on Sara’s wedding stuff, I decided to take a break and test out the recipe.

Green Pastures Cotillion Rolls

3 1/2 cups whole wheat flour * 3 – 3 1/2 cups white flour * 2 pkgs. active dry yeast * 2 cups milk * 1/2 cup sugar * 3 tablespoons shortening * 1 tablespoon salt * 2 eggs

Combine 2 1/2 cups white flour and yeast in large bowl. In medium saucepan, mix milk, sugar, shortening and salt and cook over low heat. Stir until shortening is completely melted and liquid reaches a temperature of 115-120 degrees. Add to flour mixture. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition with electric beater. Beat at high speed for 3 minutes. Add whole wheat flour and remaining white flour. Mix with a wooden spoon. Knead, adding more white flour if necessary to make a firm dough, until dough is smooth and elastic (5-10 minutes). Place dough in a large greased bowl, turn over once. Cover the bowl and let dough rise for approximately 1 1/2 hours or until double in size. Punch the dough down and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Shape into desired rolls (cloverleaf, crescents, or casseroles). Cover the rolls and allow to rise until almost doubled for approximately 45 minutes. Bake in 400 degree oven for 15-20 minutes.

Makes 2-3 dozen.

A couple things: Maybe my oven is extra hot but I’d consider pulling the rolls out the first ten minutes or so. Also, not sure if the ten minute knead is necessary. I’d say five minutes is plenty. And if you happen to know what ‘casseroles’ rolls are … please let me know. I have no idea. I opted for a knotted roll and even though it was my first time, they came out pretty nice. Might try cloverleaf next time.

You know what you might like to try? Green Pasture’s Milk Punch. It’s as iconic as those peacocks that used to hang out on the grounds.