These soft dinner rolls are a warm and fluffy addition to any meal! They are easy to make and perfect for soaking up sauces or spreading with butter.
There’s nothing like the smell of fresh bread baking! I love to serve them hot out of the oven—sometimes I can’t resist sneaking one before dinner. 😋
Making these rolls at home is so simple! Just mix, rise, and bake. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Warm Milk: Using warm milk helps activate the yeast. If you need a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk work well too! Just ensure they’re also warm.
Granulated Sugar: This is crucial for feeding the yeast. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but use a little less since they’re sweeter.
Active Dry Yeast: Fresh yeast or instant yeast can be used in place of active dry. Adjust the quantity: typically, 1 packet of instant yeast equals about 2 teaspoons of fresh yeast.
All-Purpose Flour: If you want a richer taste, try using bread flour, which has more protein for better structure. Gluten-free all-purpose flour is also a great option for gluten sensitivity.
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter for better control over seasoning. In a pinch, coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
How Can I Achieve Soft and Fluffy Rolls?
One of the key steps to making these rolls soft and fluffy is kneading the dough properly. Kneading develops gluten, giving the rolls structure and texture. Here’s how:
- After combining your ingredients, turn the dough onto a floured surface.
- Use the heels of your hands to push the dough away from you, folding it back over itself.
- Repeat this motion for about 6-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. You should be able to stretch a small piece without it breaking.
Also, make sure to allow the dough to rise in a warm place! If your kitchen is cool, you can turn on your oven for a few minutes and then turn it off, placing the dough inside to rise. This helps the yeast grow and creates those fluffy rolls!
Remember to keep an eye on the rolls during the second rise – they should get puffy and almost double in size before baking. Happy baking!
Soft Dinner Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Additional melted butter for brushing tops
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time, and you’ll need to let the dough rise for a total of about 2 hours. So, plan on spending around 2 hours and 20 minutes for the whole process from start to finish, and you’ll have delicious rolls to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This shows that the yeast is active and ready to work!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and the egg until well combined. This will create a rich base for your rolls.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, add the yeast mixture to the butter and egg mix. Stir to combine everything together.
4. Create the Dough:
Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour and the salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms. If your dough feels too sticky, gradually add more flour, a little at a time, until it becomes manageable.
5. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and soft. Kneading is important as it develops the gluten in the dough, giving it structure.
6. First Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size—this should take about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
7. Shape the Rolls:
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each piece into a smooth ball.
8. Second Rise:
Arrange the balls close together on a greased or parchment-lined baking pan. Cover the rolls again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they are puffy.
9. Preheat Oven:
While the rolls are rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Bake the Rolls:
Before baking, you can brush the tops of the rolls with additional melted butter and sprinkle lightly with coarse sea salt if you like. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
11. Finishing Touch:
As soon as you take the rolls out of the oven, brush them with more melted butter for extra softness and a beautiful shine.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving them warm. They’re perfect to enjoy on their own or with butter!
Enjoy your perfectly soft and fluffy dinner rolls, ideal for accompanying any dinner!
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Yes, you can! If using instant yeast, you don’t need to proof it in warm milk. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
How Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls, then place them in the refrigerator instead of letting them rise the second time. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise slightly before baking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven.
Can I Add Herbs or Cheese to the Dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in herbs, garlic powder, or shredded cheese to the dough for added flavor. Just be sure to adjust the flour slightly if the mixture becomes too wet.