These soft dinner rolls are fluffy little clouds of goodness! Perfect for soaking up gravy or just enjoying with butter, they are a warm and delightful addition to any meal.
Whenever I make these rolls, my family can’t resist them! They disappear fast, so I usually bake a double batch. Who can say no to a second roll, right? 😂
Making these rolls is surprisingly simple. Just mix, knead, and let them rise. The smell in the kitchen is worth every minute while they bake to golden perfection!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Warm milk brings richness to the rolls. If you’re lactose-intolerant or avoid dairy, try almond milk or oat milk; they work just fine when warmed up!
Active Dry Yeast: This is the rising agent for fluffy rolls. If you have instant yeast, you can use that too! Just skip the proofing step. If using rapid-rise yeast, reduce the rise time slightly.
Granulated Sugar: It sweetens the dough and helps with browning. For a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup instead. Just remember to reduce the liquid slightly.
All-Purpose Flour: While I prefer all-purpose flour, bread flour is a great substitute for a chewier texture. You might use a bit less, so keep an eye on the dough consistency as you mix.
Unsalted Butter: I always go with unsalted butter for better control of salt levels. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative can easily replace it.
How Do I Get That Perfect Rise for My Dinner Rolls?
A good rise is key to soft rolls! Follow these steps to ensure your dough rises nicely.
- Use warm milk (not too hot!) to wake up the yeast; it should feel cozy, like a warm hug.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free spot. I like to put it in an oven (turned off) with just the light on to create a cozy environment.
- Check if the dough has doubled in size before punching it down; a good rise can take around 1 to 1.5 hours.
- After shaping the rolls, let them rise again to ensure they’re fluffy after baking. Cover them with a towel to keep in moisture!
These small steps can make a big difference in the outcome of your rolls. Trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone in the kitchen!
Soft Dinner Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Extra melted butter for brushing the tops
- Coarse salt or sesame seeds for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe generally takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, which includes about 15-20 minutes of active preparation time. You’ll spend approximately 1 to 1.5 hours letting the dough rise, with an additional 30-45 minutes for a second rise before baking. Totally worth it for those soft, fluffy rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mix is foamy. This tells you the yeast is alive and ready to help your rolls rise!
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, and egg until well combined. Now, add the activated yeast mixture into this bowl and stir to combine everything smoothly.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of flour and the salt. This will ensure even distribution of the salt in the dough.
4. Make the Dough:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook on a stand mixer. Keep going until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour until it pulls away from the bowl edges but still feels soft.
5. Kneading Time:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead for about 5 minutes instead.
6. First Rise:
Place your kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size. This typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
7. Shape the Rolls:
After rising, punch down the dough gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a smooth ball.
8. Second Rise:
Arrange the dough balls closely together in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing enough room for them to expand. Cover and let rise a second time until they double in size and touch, which should take about 30-45 minutes.
9. Preheat and Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt or sesame seeds if you’d like.
10. Bake the Rolls:
Pop the rolls in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown and fragrant. The kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
11. Final Touch:
When you take the rolls out of the oven, brush the tops with more melted butter to keep them soft and shiny. Let them cool slightly before serving warm.
Enjoy these irresistibly soft dinner rolls alongside your favorite meals! They might just become a family favorite! 🌟
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Absolutely! If you have instant yeast on hand, you can use it. Just skip the proofing step, mixing it directly with the dry ingredients, and proceed with the recipe as usual!
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
No worries! If your dough isn’t rising well, it could be that the yeast was inactive. Make sure the milk is warm, not hot (about 110°F / 43°C), and that your yeast is fresh. You can also try moving the dough to a warmer spot or placing a warm damp towel over it.
How Should I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw and warm them up in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Fillings or Toppings to These Rolls?
Definitely! You can add cheese, garlic, or herbs to the dough before shaping for extra flavor. Just be mindful not to overload them, as this can affect the rise and texture!
