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Make-Ahead Dinner Rolls Recipe

Rolls are a classic addition to any meal, especially dinner. Despite their simplicity, rolls can be time consuming to make on the day of a big meal. This prepare-ahead dinner rolls recipe solves that problem. You can make these rolls in advance, freeze them and just pop them in the oven before you're ready to serve.

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Photos of Make-Ahead Dinner Rolls Recipe

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The recipe includes instant potato flakes, a not-so-common ingredient in many households. You can find them in the potato section of most supermarkets or grocery stores. Instant potato flakes add an extra dimension of flavor and tenderness to these dinner rolls.

Prepare-Ahead Dinner Rolls Key Ingredients

All purpose flour: This is the main ingredient of the bread rolls, providing structure and substance.

Instant potato flakes: These are dehydrated potatoes that add moisture and tenderness to the bread rolls.

Instant yeast: This is a type of yeast that helps the bread rise quickly.

Sugar: Sugar feeds the yeast, helping it to work and adding a touch of sweetness to the rolls.

Salt: A flavor enhancer, it helps to bring out the other flavors in the bread.

Eggs: They provide structure and moisture to the rolls.

Whole milk: Whole milk adds richness to the rolls.

Unsalted butter: This adds flavor and tender texture to the rolls.

Vegetable or olive oil: Used for coating the dough and preventing it from drying out during the rising process.

Butter for brushing: This is used to give the rolls a golden color and a buttery crust.

One reader, Joey Keating says:

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These prepare-ahead dinner rolls are a game-changer! The recipe is easy to follow and the rolls turn out soft and fluffy every time. I love that I can freeze them and reheat whenever I need. It's a real time-saver and a hit with my family!

Joey Keating

Techniques Required for Prepare-Ahead Dinner Rolls Recipe

Mix the dough: Combine the ingredients in a stand mixer and beat until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky.

Knead the dough: Continue kneading the dough in the stand mixer until it is soft and slightly tacky, but not too sticky.

Let the dough rise: Allow the dough to double in size and become firm, leaving an impression when touched.

Shape the rolls: Roll the dough into a 12-inch square and cut it into 16 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.

Let the rolls rise: Place the rolls on a baking sheet and let them rise until they appear puffy.

Bake the rolls: Bake the rolls in a preheated oven until they are golden brown.

Freeze the rolls: Wrap the completely cooled, baked rolls tightly in foil and place them in plastic freezer bags. Freeze for up to one month.

Reheat the rolls: Remove the foil packages from the freezer bags, place them on a baking sheet, and heat in a 300ºF oven for about 10 minutes. Brush with melted butter if desired.

There’s hardly anything better than freshly-baked homemade make-ahead dinner rolls.

When the holidays roll around, people are usually looking forward to the turkeys and ham. But my guests have set their hearts on something different — warm dinner rolls. Who could blame them, though, when they’re as fluffy and buttery as I make them? They’re so irresistible that they will have no less than two rolls each time.

This easy dinner roll recipe has been my go-to for years. It always yields the most perfectly soft, fluffy, buttery rolls even when I make them ahead. I also love how the ingredients are easy-to-find, the rise times are minimal, and you can pull everything together in an hour or so.

Everyone who has had their share of my dinner rolls has asked about a make-ahead version. So, I’ve made this post with instructions on how to make dinner rolls ahead of time plus tips on how to freeze and heat them. These are super helpful on busy days and holidays.

For this homemade dinner roll recipe, I am using instant potato flakes to make the rolls extra tender. It’s also what makes them fluffier than other bread. This recipe also calls for instant yeast for a quicker rising time. Make sure your yeast has not expired, and that you are using a quality brand, to give your rolls the best rise.Unlike sourdough or bagels that are crustier and chewier, dinner rolls have rich dough. It means they have high amounts of fat derived from milk, butter, oil, and eggs which make them softer and richer.

The dough for these make-ahead rolls for Thanksgiving contains flour, instant potato flakes, yeast, sugar, and salt. They’re then combined with eggs and milk in a mixer. Make sure all of these are at room temperature prior to mixing! Eventually, you’ll need to knead the dough by hand, although it requires a bit of arm muscle.

The dough becomes softer and fluffier as it rises, which helps achieve the texture we are aiming for. So do not skip on the first rising time of 1½ hours to 2 hours. And the second rising time of 1 hour after shaping the dough into balls.

You can bake the dough immediately after rising for 20 minutes in the oven. Feel free to serve them as is, or freeze the baked rolls for later consumption. Make sure to wrap the rolls in foil, and store them in freezer bags prior to freezing! Then, just thaw and bake them in a 300 degrees F oven for about 10 minutes. Brush with melted butter afterwards for shine and added flavor.

Alternatively, you can make the dough, shape them into rolls, place them in a pan, and freeze them for later baking. The dough for these make-ahead dinner rolls will stay fresh for 3-5 days in the fridge and up to a month in the freezer. The day you want to serve them, take out the rolls, place them in a pan, and let them thaw and rise for 4 to 5 hours or so before baking as normal.

How To Make Make-Ahead Dinner Rolls

These make-ahead dinner rolls are easy to make. Save this recipe to create buttery, melt-in-your-mouth rolls! Serve them as a classic for Thanksgiving or at your next dinner party.

Preparation: 30 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total: 3 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • ⅔ cup instant potato flakes, unflavored or natural flavored
  • 1 pkg instant yeast
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1¼ cups whole milk
  • 4 oz unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
  • 1 tsp vegetable oil, or olive oil
  • 3 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer on low speed with the paddle attachment, add 2 cups of flour, potato flakes, yeast, sugar, and salt until combined. Add eggs and milk, then beat for 1 minute at medium speed.
  2. Add butter in tablespoon-size portions on medium speed, then beat for about 3 to 5 minutes until well incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix in 1½ cups more flour at low speed. The dough will be thick and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl again, and then switch to dough hook attachment.
  3. Set the mixer on low speed and gradually add ½ cup more of flour. Continue kneading the dough on low speed for 10 minutes or until it cleans the sides of the bowl. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not so sticky that it will be difficult to shape into rolls. If it is very sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
  4. Turn the dough out of the bowl and form it into a ball. Drizzle the oil into the bottom of the bowl. Set the dough back in the bowl, turn, and then coat again with oil.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Leave in a warm place to rise for 1½ to 2 hours, or until doubled in size and the dough is firm but fingertips leave an impression on the surface.
  6. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured countertop then, using a rolling pin, roll evenly into a 12-inch square. With a chef’s knife or pizza cutter, cut the square into 16 equal pieces of dough.
  7. For each piece of dough, fold the edges into the center, then pinch the loose ends together to form a ball. Turn the dough over so the seam side is down. Move it to an un-floured part of the work surface. Cup your hands over the dough and rotate the roll, using your cupped fingers and your palm to make a round, taut roll.
  8. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment. Set the rolls on the sheet about 1-inch apart, then cover them with plastic wrap. Let the rolls rise for another 1 hour, or until they have risen and look puffy.
  9. Toward the end of the rising time, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  10. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Lift them off the baking sheet and set them on a rack to cool.
  11. If serving immediately, brush with melted butter, then serve! Alternatively, freeze (without the butter) and reheat at your convenience.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 228.53kcal
  • Fat: 9.61g
  • Saturated Fat: 5.63g
  • Trans Fat: 0.32g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 2.56g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.59g
  • Carbohydrates: 29.97g
  • Fiber: 1.59g
  • Sugar: 4.24g
  • Protein: 5.74g
  • Cholesterol: 46.12mg
  • Sodium: 181.52mg
  • Calcium: 33.65mg
  • Potassium: 117.71mg
  • Iron: 1.67mg
  • Vitamin A: 85.76µg
  • Vitamin C: 1.25mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Prepare-Ahead Dinner Rolls

When shaping your dinner rolls, ensure your hands are slightly wet. This will prevent the dough from sticking to your hands, making it easier to form the rolls. Additionally, when letting the dough rise, it's beneficial to place it in a slightly warm area. This could be near a sunny window or on top of the refrigerator. The warmth will encourage the yeast to activate, allowing the dough to rise more effectively.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Dinner Rolls Ahead

Prepare the dough: To save time, consider preparing the dough in advance and freezing it. This way, you can simply thaw the dough when you're ready to bake the dinner rolls.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer to knead the dough, as it will save you time and effort compared to kneading by hand.

Plan ahead: Plan your baking schedule in advance. Consider making the dough a day or two before you plan to serve the rolls, allowing the flavors to develop and the dough to rise slowly in the refrigerator.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and make a larger batch of dinner rolls. You can freeze the extra rolls for later use, saving time on future meal preparations.

Pre-portion the dough: Instead of shaping each roll individually, consider dividing the dough into portions and using a muffin tin to bake the rolls. This can save time and ensure uniformity in size and shape.

Preheat the oven: Make sure to preheat the oven while the rolls are rising. This way, the oven will be ready as soon as the rolls are fully proofed, saving you time in the baking process.

Brush with butter: Instead of brushing the rolls with butter after reheating, consider brushing them with butter before freezing. This way, they'll be ready to serve immediately after reheating, saving you an extra step.

Substitute Ingredients For Make-Ahead Dinner Rolls Recipe

  • all purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which will help create a chewier texture in the dinner rolls.

  • instant potato flakes - Substitute with mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes can add moisture and a soft texture to the dinner rolls, similar to instant potato flakes.

  • instant yeast - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast can be used as a substitute for instant yeast by proofing it in warm liquid before adding it to the dough.

  • sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a touch of sweetness and also contribute to the softness of the dinner rolls.

  • whole milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can add a subtle tanginess and richness to the dinner rolls, enhancing their flavor and texture.

  • unsalted butter - Substitute with vegetable shortening: Vegetable shortening can be used as a substitute for butter to create a tender and flaky texture in the dinner rolls.

  • vegetable or olive oil - Substitute with melted butter: Melted butter can add a rich flavor and a softer texture to the dinner rolls.

  • butter for brushing the reheated rolls - Substitute with melted ghee: Ghee can be used to brush the reheated rolls, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the crust.

Presenting Your Delicious Dinner Rolls

  1. Elevate the rolls with a gourmet butter: Create a selection of flavored butters such as truffle butter, herb-infused butter, or roasted garlic butter to accompany the dinner rolls. Present the flavored butters in elegant quenelle shapes or small ramekins for a luxurious touch.

  2. Incorporate artisanal salts: Enhance the flavor and visual appeal of the rolls by sprinkling them with fleur de sel or Himalayan pink salt before serving. The delicate crystals of these specialty salts will add a pop of color and a burst of flavor to the rolls.

  3. Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and vibrancy to the presentation by scattering freshly picked chives or microgreens over the rolls. The bright green hues of the herbs will provide a beautiful contrast against the golden-brown exterior of the rolls.

  4. Serve on a rustic bread board: Present the prepared-ahead dinner rolls on a wooden bread board for a charming and inviting display. This rustic presentation will evoke a sense of warmth and homeliness, enhancing the overall dining experience.

  5. Accompany with artisanal preserves: Elevate the rolls by serving them alongside a selection of high-quality fruit preserves or savory spreads. The vibrant colors and rich textures of the preserves will complement the rolls and add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.

  6. Create a visually appealing arrangement: Arrange the rolls in a visually striking pattern, such as a wreath or a cascading display, to captivate the eye and create an impressive focal point on the table. Consider incorporating fresh flowers or decorative foliage for an added touch of elegance.

  7. Present in individual serving baskets: For an upscale and personalized presentation, serve the prepared-ahead dinner rolls in individual woven baskets lined with linen napkins. This individualized approach adds a sense of refinement and attention to detail to the dining experience.

  8. Accompany with flavored oils: Offer a selection of premium flavored oils, such as rosemary-infused olive oil or chili-infused oil, as a sophisticated accompaniment to the rolls. Provide small dipping dishes for guests to enjoy the rolls with their preferred oil infusion.

  9. Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of whimsy and elegance by adorning the rolls with delicate, edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies. The vibrant colors and delicate petals will add a delightful visual element to the presentation.

  10. Serve with gourmet cheese: Elevate the dining experience by pairing the prepared-ahead dinner rolls with a curated selection of artisanal cheeses. Present the cheeses on a wooden board alongside the rolls for a sophisticated and indulgent accompaniment.

Essential Tools for Making Prepare-Ahead Dinner Rolls

  • Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a versatile tool that can be used for mixing and kneading dough, making it an essential tool for preparing the dinner rolls. It provides consistent and thorough mixing, making the dough smooth and elastic.

  • Rolling pin: A rolling pin is used to roll out the dough into a 12-inch square, ensuring that the rolls are of uniform size and thickness.

  • Chef’s knife or pizza cutter: This tool is used to cut the rolled-out dough into 16 equal pieces, allowing for precise and even portions for the dinner rolls.

  • Rimmed baking sheet: The rimmed baking sheet is used to hold the rolls during the rising and baking process, providing a stable and contained surface for the rolls to proof and bake.

  • Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the baking sheet, preventing the rolls from sticking and making cleanup easier.

  • Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is used to cover the dough during the rising process, creating a warm and humid environment for the dough to double in size.

  • Rolling rack: A rolling rack is used to cool the baked rolls, allowing air to circulate around them and preventing sogginess.

  • Foil: Foil is used to wrap the completely cooled, baked rolls for freezing, preserving their freshness and preventing freezer burn.

  • Freezer bags: Freezer bags are used to store the wrapped rolls in the freezer, keeping them fresh for future use.

  • Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to reheat the frozen rolls in the oven, providing a surface for even heating and crisping.

Storing and Freezing Your Prepare-Ahead Dinner Rolls

  • Once the dinner rolls have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft and fresh, place a piece of bread in the container with the rolls to help absorb any excess moisture.

  • For longer storage, freezing is the best option. Wrap the cooled rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

  • When you're ready to enjoy the frozen rolls, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 2 hours. You can also thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

  • To reheat the thawed rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the crust is crispy.

  • For a softer crust, brush the rolls with melted butter before reheating. This will also add a delicious buttery flavor to the rolls.

  • If you want to freeze unbaked rolls, shape them and place them on a baking sheet as directed in the recipe. Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you're ready to bake, remove the rolls from the freezer, place them on a prepared baking sheet, and let them thaw and rise at room temperature for about 2 hours before baking as directed in the recipe.

How To Reheat Leftover Dinner Rolls

  • To reheat leftover dinner rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the crust is crispy again. For an extra touch of flavor, brush the tops of the rolls with some melted butter before reheating.

  • Another option is to use a microwave. Place the rolls on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 15-20 seconds per roll, or until they are heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can make the rolls tough and chewy.

  • If you have a toaster oven, you can also use it to reheat your leftover rolls. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls on the rack. Toast for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the crust is crispy.

  • For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat the rolls in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of butter or olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the rolls and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the crust is crispy.

  • If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated rolls, try splitting them in half and spreading a small amount of garlic butter, herb butter, or your favorite spread on the inside before reheating. This will infuse the rolls with delicious flavor and make them even more irresistible.

Fascinating Facts About Dinner Rolls

The recipe for prepare-ahead dinner rolls is a great way to save time and have freshly baked rolls whenever you need them. By freezing the rolls after baking, you can conveniently reheat them at your convenience, making it a versatile and time-saving option for busy days. This recipe allows you to enjoy the delicious taste of homemade rolls without the need to prepare them from scratch every time. Plus, the use of instant potato flakes adds a unique twist to the traditional dinner roll recipe, providing a soft and fluffy texture.

Is Making Prepare-Ahead Dinner Rolls Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this prepare-ahead dinner rolls recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in most households, and the recipe yields a large batch of delicious rolls. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the rolls also adds value, as they can be served with a variety of dishes. Overall Verdict: 9.

Are Prepare-Ahead Dinner Rolls Healthy or Unhealthy?

This dinner roll recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

  • The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutrients found in whole grain flours
  • The high content of butter and whole milk contributes to increased saturated fat and cholesterol levels
  • The addition of sugar and instant potato flakes further increases the carbohydrate content without providing significant nutritional benefits

However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste and texture.

Incorporating whole wheat flour or other nutrient-dense flours like oat, spelt, or quinoa can boost the fiber and protein content of the rolls. Gradually replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with these healthier alternatives to maintain a pleasant texture.

Consider reducing the amount of butter and replacing some of it with heart-healthy oils like olive oil or avocado oil. This will help lower the saturated fat content while still providing moisture and richness to the rolls.

Experiment with using low-fat or non-dairy milk options, such as skim milk, almond milk, or oat milk, to decrease the overall fat and cholesterol content of the recipe.

Lastly, try reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe or substituting it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. These alternatives offer a touch of sweetness along with some additional nutrients and antioxidants.

Editor's Opinion on This Prepare-Ahead Dinner Rolls Recipe

This prepare-ahead dinner rolls recipe is a versatile and convenient option for any occasion. The use of instant potato flakes adds a unique texture and flavor to the rolls, making them stand out. The detailed instructions ensure that even novice bakers can achieve excellent results. The option to freeze and reheat the rolls makes them a practical choice for busy schedules. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful combination of ease and deliciousness, making it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their bread-making skills.

Enhance Your Make-Ahead Dinner Rolls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and drizzled with a balsamic glaze.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, such as juicy watermelon, sweet strawberries, and tangy pineapple, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Prepare-Ahead Dinner Rolls

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and healthy dish that combines ground meat, rice, and savory seasonings stuffed inside colorful bell peppers, then baked to perfection.
Mango Salsa Chicken: A refreshing and tropical twist on traditional chicken dishes, featuring juicy mango salsa served over tender and flavorful grilled chicken breasts.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A comforting and creamy soup made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party.
Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent and rich dessert with a warm and gooey chocolate center, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a sweet delight.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Dinner Rolls

Appetizers:
Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.
Caprese Skewers: Offer a fresh and vibrant appetizer with colorful skewers of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a burst of tangy sweetness that complements the juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also a delightful combination of flavors.
Desserts:
Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a decadent, silky smooth chocolate mousse that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving for more. This rich and creamy dessert is the perfect way to end a meal and impress your guests with its luxurious texture and intense chocolate flavor.
Apple Crisp: Savor the warm, comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a crispy, buttery oat crumble. This classic dessert is a delightful combination of sweet and tart, and is best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.

Why trust this Make-Ahead Dinner Rolls Recipe:

This recipe guarantees soft and fluffy dinner rolls every time, thanks to the use of instant yeast and potato flakes. The combination of butter and whole milk ensures a rich and tender texture, while the addition of eggs provides structure and richness. The make-ahead feature allows for convenience, making it perfect for busy schedules. With clear and detailed instructions, users can trust that these rolls will turn out perfectly, making them a reliable choice for any occasion.

Want to discuss this make-ahead dinner rolls recipe further? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum and share your experience with these delightful rolls!
FAQ:
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of instant potato flakes?
Yes, you can substitute instant potato flakes with an equal amount of mashed potatoes made from fresh potatoes. Make sure the mashed potatoes are smooth and free of lumps before adding them to the dough.
Can I use a different type of flour, such as whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the rolls will be different from the original recipe. You may need to adjust the liquid content slightly to achieve the desired dough consistency.
Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. After the first rise, punch down the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. The next day, allow the dough to come to room temperature, shape it into rolls, and proceed with the second rise and baking as directed.
Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the shaped rolls before the second rise. After shaping the rolls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, allow the rolls to thaw and rise before baking as directed.
Can I use a dairy-free alternative for the milk and butter?
Yes, you can use dairy-free milk and butter alternatives in this recipe. Be sure to choose unsweetened and unflavored options to maintain the intended flavor profile of the rolls.

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