Bread has always been a comforting, essential food in many cultures. Whether enjoyed as a side to a hearty meal, or as the base of a delicious sandwich, nothing beats the warmth of freshly baked bread. This recipe for soft and fluffy homemade bread rolls is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, these rolls are sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour
- Baking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- Flour: 3 1/2 cups (440 g)
- Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Instant Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons
- Whole Milk: 1/3 cup (80 ml), warmed
- Large Eggs: 4, room temperature
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (113 g), softened and cubed
Optional Additions:
- Sweet Additions: Chocolate chips, dried fruits, or a swirl of cinnamon sugar.
- Savory Additions: Shredded cheese, herbs, or garlic.
- Toppings: Sesame seeds, pearl sugar, or a honey glaze.
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: Begin by warming the milk in a small bowl until it reaches a temperature of about 110°F (43°C). Sprinkle the yeast and granulated sugar into the warm milk, stirring until it is fully dissolved. Allow the yeast mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Mix well to ensure that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or a dough hook until it starts to come together. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches a soft and elastic texture.
- Knead the Dough: Once the dough starts to form, transfer it to a floured surface and knead it for 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough. The dough should be smooth and elastic, and when you press your finger into it, it should spring back gently. Kneading helps develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure and softness.
- First Rise: Lightly grease a bowl and place the dough inside. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. You can place it near a warm oven or in a sunny spot.
- Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, arranging them close together for a soft, pull-apart texture. If desired, brush the tops with melted butter or egg wash for a golden finish.
- Second Rise: Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes. The rolls should puff up and touch each other in the pan, creating a soft, pillowy texture when baked.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have finished rising, place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can brush the tops with more melted butter for extra flavor, or even drizzle them with honey for a sweet touch.
These homemade bread rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. Soft, fluffy, and versatile, they can be served with savory dishes, slathered in butter, or enjoyed as a simple snack. The optional additions, such as cheese, herbs, or chocolate chips, allow you to customize these rolls to your taste. With just a bit of patience for the rising time, these rolls are well worth the effort. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with your favorite dishes, or store them in an airtight container for up to three days.
Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just because you love fresh-baked bread, these rolls are sure to impress. Happy baking!