2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
1-1/2 cups warm whole milk (110° to 115°)
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup shortening
1 large egg
2 teaspoons salt
7 to 8 cups all-purpose flour
1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, sugar, shortening, egg, salt and 3 cups flour. Beat on medium speed until mixture has a spongy texture. Let stand for 10 minutes. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
2. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6 to 8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into three portions. Let rest for 5 minutes. Divide each portion into 36 pieces. Shape each piece into a ball; place three balls in each greased muffin cup.
4. Cover and let rise until almost doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 375° until golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks. Serve warm.
TOTAL TIME: Prep: 30 min. + rising Bake: 15 min./batch YIELD: 3 dozen.