KITTENCAL'S 60% WHOLE WHEAT ROLLS

Steps:

• In a small saucepan, heat the 1/2 cup whole milk with 3 tbsp sugar, salt and 4 tablespoons butter until the milk is warmed (not hot!) and the butter is almost melted (the butter does not have to melt completely) set aside and cool until lukewarm.
• Proof the yeast with 1 tsp sugar in the 1-1/4 cups warm water for 10 minutes until foamy.
• Using a heavy-duty mixer, fitted with the kneader attachment, to the bowl add in 3 cups whole wheat flour and 1 cup white flour with warm milk/butter mixture and the proofed yeast.
• Mix for 2 minutes, then start adding in more flour if needed to create a soft smooth dough that holds around the kneader blade, knead for 5-8 minutes (adjusting flour).
• Remove the dough and let rest 10 minutes on the counter, covered with a clean tea towel.
• After 10 minutes, lightly knead the dough into a ball, and then place in a well-oiled bowl.
• Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size (if you are oven-rising this should take about 1 hour).
• Remove and punch down dough.
• Shape into 12 balls (depending on what size you make them).
• Cover and rise again for 30-35 minutes.
• Brush the tops and sides gently using a pastry brush with the egg/water mix, sprinkle with sesame seeds (if using).
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are a deep golden brown, and sound hollow when tapped.