When you think of Kodiak Cakes, pancakes and waffles likely come to mind first. But did you know that their whole grain baking mixes are incredibly versatile for savory baking, too? With a little creativity, you can turn that box of Frontier Cakes or Power Cakes mix into a batch of warm, fluffy dinner rolls that are packed with protein and fiber.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make savory dinner rolls using Kodiak Cakes baking mix. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty stew, using them for sliders, or just enjoying them with butter, these rolls are a game-changer for anyone looking to add more whole grains and protein to their bread baking.
Why Use Kodiak Cakes Mix for Dinner Rolls?
Traditional dinner rolls are often made with refined white flour, offering little nutritional value beyond empty carbs. By swapping in Kodiak Cakes baking mix, you instantly boost the protein and fiber content. The mix typically contains whole grain wheat flour, oat flour, and added protein from whey or milk solids, making it a smarter choice for bread recipes.
Another advantage is convenience. Kodiak Cakes mixes already include leavening agents and a touch of salt, so you don’t need to measure out baking powder or soda separately. This simplifies the dough-making process, especially for beginner bakers. Plus, the subtle buttermilk flavor in mixes like Buttermilk & Honey Frontier Cakes complements savory herbs beautifully.
You might worry that whole grain rolls will turn out dense or dry, but with the right hydration and technique, these rolls are surprisingly light and tender. The key is to add enough liquid and fat to keep the dough soft, and to avoid overmixing.
- Higher protein content keeps you fuller longer.
- Whole grains provide steady energy without the blood sugar spike.
- Built-in leavening saves time and reduces ingredients.
- Subtle buttermilk flavor pairs well with garlic, rosemary, or cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Savory Kodiak Dinner Rolls
This recipe uses simple pantry staples. Start with 2 cups of Kodiak Cakes Buttermilk & Honey Frontier Cakes mix as the base. You’ll also need 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2% works best for moisture), 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of melted butter or olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the savory flavors. For seasoning, add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme, and ½ teaspoon of salt if your mix is unsalted.
If you want cheesy rolls, fold in ½ cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan. For a heartier version, mix in ¼ cup of cooked, crumbled turkey sausage or chopped sun-dried tomatoes. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it comes together.
You can also experiment with other Kodiak mixes. For a sweeter-savory twist, try the Cinnamon Oat Power Cakes mix, but reduce the added honey. The Blueberry Thick and Fluffy Power Waffles mix works too, but skip the fruit and double the herbs.
Blueberry Thick and Fluffy Power Waffles
- 2 cups Kodiak Cakes Buttermilk & Honey Frontier Cakes mix
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried rosemary, ½ tsp salt
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheese or ¼ cup cooked turkey sausage
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the Kodiak Cakes mix, garlic powder, rosemary, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, egg, melted butter, and honey until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix—a few lumps are fine.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (use extra Kodiak mix or all-purpose flour). Gently knead 8-10 times until the dough holds together. Divide into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Brush the tops with a little melted butter or an egg wash for a golden crust.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let them cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, but they also freeze well for up to a month.
- Don’t overmix—gluten development is minimal, but overworking can make rolls tough.
- Use a light touch when shaping to keep rolls fluffy.
- Brush with butter immediately after baking for extra softness.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These savory dinner rolls are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside a bowl of chili, roasted chicken, or vegetable soup for a complete meal. They also make excellent sliders—split them in half and fill with pulled pork, grilled vegetables, or a fried egg for a protein-packed breakfast sandwich.
For a brunch spread, pair the rolls with scrambled eggs and a side of Kodiak Cakes Peanut Butter Crunchy Bars for a sweet-salty contrast. If you’re packing lunch, these rolls hold up well and can be used for mini sandwiches. You can even toast them the next day for a crunchy base for avocado toast.
To keep the rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes or in the microwave for 15 seconds. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze; thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen.
- Pair with chili, stew, or roasted meats.
- Use as slider buns for lunch or dinner.
- Toast leftovers for breakfast with butter and jam.
- Freeze extras for quick meals later.
Tips for Customizing Your Rolls
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. For a gluten-free version, use a certified gluten-free Kodiak mix (check the label). For dairy-free rolls, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use coconut oil instead of butter. The texture may be slightly denser, but still delicious.
If you prefer a more rustic look, shape the dough into a single round loaf instead of individual rolls. Bake for 25-30 minutes and slice into wedges. You can also add seeds on top—sesame, poppy, or everything bagel seasoning—for extra crunch and flavor.
For a spicy kick, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the dough. Or, fold in ¼ cup of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill. The Kodiak Cakes Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cup can inspire a sweet-savory version—just omit the herbs and add a pinch of cinnamon and chopped apple.
- Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations work well.
- Shape into a loaf for a rustic presentation.
- Top with seeds or everything seasoning for extra texture.
- Add fresh herbs or spices to match your meal.
Next time you’re craving fresh bread but want to keep it nutritious, grab a box of Kodiak Cakes Buttermilk & Honey Frontier Cakes mix. These savory dinner rolls prove that whole grain baking can be just as indulgent and satisfying as the traditional kind. Try this recipe tonight and discover a new favorite way to use your Kodiak mix—your dinner table will thank you.
