Easy Small Batch Ciabatta Rolls

Name: Easy Small Batch Ciabatta Rolls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon instant yeast; 1 cup (240 grams) water, at room temperature; 2.5 cups (300 grams) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt

By:

dani

Published:

February 24, 2026

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These Easy Small Batch Ciabatta Rolls are your new go-to for fresh, homemade bread without the fuss. There’s something magical about taking simple ingredients and turning them into something warm and fluffy. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty soup or enjoying one straight from the oven, these rolls are sure to bring a smile. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in the final product but also in the ease of making them. In just about 10 minutes of active work, you’ll have dough that rises beautifully, turning into rolls that are crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Why This Recipe Works

Easy Small Batch Ciabatta Rolls are crafted to ensure a light and airy texture while being simple to make. This recipe keeps preparation time to just 10 minutes. The no-knead technique means that even novice bakers can achieve success without the need for elaborate equipment. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you’ll create rolls that are perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Small Batch Ciabatta Rolls

What’s not to love about fresh bread? These rolls are great for pairing with any meal or enjoying on their own! They boast a crunchy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. Plus, the small batch is perfect for those who want to indulge without creating a mountain of leftovers. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a cozy night in, these ciabatta rolls fit the bill just right.

Ingredients for Easy Small Batch Ciabatta Rolls

1 teaspoon instant yeast
1 cup (240 grams) water, at room temperature
2.5 cups (300 grams) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt

Preparing the Dough With an Easy Method

Combine Yeast and Water

To start, dissolve the instant yeast in lukewarm water using a small cup. Give it a good stir and watch for bubbles forming—it’s a sign that fermentation is happening! Let this mixture sit for about 2 minutes so the yeast activates nicely.

Mix Ingredients for Dough

Next, take a large bowl and add your all-purpose flour along with the salt. Pour in that bubbly yeast mixture and give it a good whisk until everything is combined. It’s important to ensure no dry flour remains; the mixture should feel sticky and wet, aiming for an 80% hydration ratio.

Initial Rise

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for about 1 hour. If your kitchen is warm, you might notice it rises even faster. Keep an eye on it, because watching dough grow is one of the most satisfying parts of baking!

Gently Developing Structure Through Stretching and Folding

First Stretch and Fold

After your dough has had its initial rise, moisten your hands with a little water. Gently stretch and fold the dough by bringing the edges into the center. This should take less than a minute. Once done, cover it again and let it rest for another 30 minutes.

Second Stretch and Fold

Repeat the stretching and folding process, just like before. Cover the dough once more and allow it to rest for another 30 minutes. This step builds structure in the dough without the need to knead.

Final Stretch and Fold

Now it’s time for one last stretch and fold. Gently handle the dough again and let it rest for another 30 minutes. By now, your dough should have nearly doubled in size. How exciting!

Shaping the Dough for Beautiful Rolls

Transfer and Shape

Gently transfer your dough onto a floured surface. Add a sprinkle of flour if needed and carefully shape it into a rectangle. Handle it gently to maintain those wonderful air pockets—you don’t want to squeeze them out!

Form the Rolls

Roll the dough loosely into a log and seal the edge. Then, divide the log into 4 or 5 equal pieces, making sure to space them at least 2 inches apart on a well-floured surface. Let them rest for about 40 minutes for the final proofing. This is where the rolls gain that lovely volume we love.

Baking Your Easy Small Batch Ciabatta Rolls

Prepare the Oven and Baking Tray

While your rolls are resting, it’s time to prepare the oven. Transfer each piece of dough onto a parchment-lined 8×12-inch baking tray, dusting with flour to help with handling. Place a baking pan filled with water at the oven’s bottom to create some steam. Preheat your oven to 420°F—this will ensure a perfect bake.

Bake the Rolls

Once heated, lightly spray some water over the dough and pop them in the oven to bake for 20 minutes. The steam combined with that high heat will create a delightful crust!

Cool and Check for Doneness

After 20 minutes, your rolls should be golden brown and ready to come out. Allow them to cool on a rack for about 20 minutes before slicing. To check for doneness, tap the bottom of a roll; if it produces a hollow sound, you’ve nailed it!

Serving Suggestions

These Ciabatta Rolls are best enjoyed warm! Try them topped with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar. They make an excellent side dish for soups and salads or can even be served as mini sandwiches filled with your favorites.

Tips for Success

To ensure proper yeast activation, always use lukewarm water. And during the shaping process, avoid using too much flour! This will help maintain the rolls’ airy texture.

Variations

Looking to switch it up? You can experiment by adding herbs, cheese, or even olives right into the dough before shaping. The possibilities are endless!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover rolls, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped in plastic wrap, ready to heat up later.

Pairing Ideas

These rolls are fantastic with pâté, cheeses, or as a base for mini sandwiches. Whether you’re serving a snack platter or planning a cozy dinner, they fit perfectly.

FAQs

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but remember to activate it in warm water for about 5 minutes before adding.

2. How should I store leftover ciabatta rolls?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or freeze them for up to a month.

3. Can I add seeds or herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to enhance the flavor with flax seeds, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs.

4. What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
Check that your yeast is still active and that the room temperature is warm enough. In cooler conditions, the rise may simply take a little longer.

5. How do I reheat ciabatta rolls?
Wrap them in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

These Easy Small Batch Ciabatta Rolls are not just a recipe. They provide a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread without the complexity. Light, airy, and versatile, these rolls are a perfect addition to any meal or simply enjoyed on their own. Their delightful texture and delicious crust will impress your family or guests, making them a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the process and relish every bite!