Description
These soft, fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for any meal, featuring a tender crumb and golden crust. Made with simple ingredients including warm milk, yeast, and butter, these rolls are easy to prepare with two rises, resulting in light, airy bread ideal to accompany dinners or to enjoy on their own.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Brushing
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, add 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir together until a dough forms, then add additional flour if the dough is too sticky to handle, until it’s manageable.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook and knead for the same duration.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm environment for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Rolls: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough evenly into 12-15 portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls and allow them to rise again in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes until they puff up and nearly double in size.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Before baking, brush the tops of the rolls generously with melted butter. Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
- Serve: Once baked, brush the rolls again with melted butter to give them a glossy finish and serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to save effort during kneading.
- Covering the dough during rising helps keep moisture in and promotes better rising.
- Don’t skip the second rise for fluffier, lighter rolls.
- For an extra soft crust, brush the rolls with melted butter immediately after baking.
- These rolls can be frozen after baking; thaw and warm before serving.
