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Dissolve yeast in warm water; let stand about 5 minutes.
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Add sugar, salt, soda and egg.
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Add emough flour to make a stiff batter and beat about 2 minutes on medium speed of mixer.
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Pour in warm buttermilk and melted butter.
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Add enough flour to make a firm dough; knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 - 10 minutes.
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Put in a large, buttered bowl and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
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Punch dough down and let rest about 5 minutes.
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Form dough into 24 balls and place in three buttered round cake pans. Rise, covered, until doubled in bulk.
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Brush rolls with heavy cream or melted butter, if desired.
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Bake at 350 for 25 - 30 minutes. Remove from pans and cool on wire rack.