Perfectly Soft and Buttery Dinner Rolls Recipe
There’s something irresistible about soft, fluffy, and buttery dinner rolls fresh from the oven. These rolls, with their pillowy texture and delicate, golden crust, are the perfect accompaniment to any meal, whether it’s a hearty soup, a fresh salad, or a classic roast. Their light sweetness and rich, buttery flavor make them just as delicious on their own, with a dab of butter or a hint of jam. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to create bakery-quality rolls right in your own kitchen with simple ingredients and easy steps. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 packet instant yeast (about 7g)
- 300ml warm milk
- 50g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
- Active Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- First Rise: 1 hour
- Second Rise: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 20 minutes
INSTRUCTIONS
Steps to Prepare Soft and Buttery Dinner Rolls
- Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Use a whisk to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Gradually pour in the warm milk and add the melted butter and egg. Mix everything together using a wooden spoon or spatula until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a clean, lightly floured surface. Knead it by hand for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, you can knead the dough on medium speed for 5-6 minutes.
- When the dough is ready, it should be slightly sticky but manageable, with a soft and pliable texture.
- First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- If your kitchen is cool, you can preheat your oven to a low temperature (about 100°F or 37°C) and turn it off before placing the bowl inside.
- Shape the Rolls
- Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces for larger rolls or 16 for smaller ones. Roll each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath and rounding it with your palms.
- Second Rise
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a small space between each roll.
- Cover the rolls again with a towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30 minutes until they puff up and fill in the gaps.
- Bake the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating they’re fully baked.
- Add a Final Brush of Butter
- Immediately after removing the rolls from the oven, brush the tops with melted butter for an extra soft and glossy finish. This final touch enhances their buttery flavor and gives them a beautiful sheen.
Serving and Enjoyment
Serve these dinner rolls warm for the best experience. They pair wonderfully with a pat of salted butter, or you can serve them with honey or jam for a touch of sweetness. These rolls make an excellent side for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner at home. Their light, airy texture and rich taste will have everyone reaching for seconds.
With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create soft, fluffy, and buttery dinner rolls that rival those from your favorite bakery. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or just as a treat, these rolls are versatile and universally loved. Enjoy the satisfaction of baking something delightful and delicious in your own kitchen, and share the joy with those around you. These homemade dinner rolls will quickly become a staple, adding warmth and comfort to every meal.