These soft dinner rolls are fluffy, warm, and oh-so-delicious! Perfect for soaking up gravy or just munching on their own, they’ll bring smiles to your dinner table!
Trust me, fresh out of the oven, these rolls might just vanish before your eyes. I always make a double batch because they are that good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Warm Milk: Using warm milk helps activate the yeast. If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute with almond milk or oat milk. Just make sure it’s warm—not hot!
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness. If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Both work well!
Granulated Sugar: The sugar activates the yeast and gives a sweet hint to the rolls. You can use honey or maple syrup instead if you’re looking for a natural sweetener.
Active Dry Yeast: Make sure it’s fresh! If you only have instant yeast, you can use it in the same amount but skip the foaming step.
All-Purpose Flour: For a lighter roll, you can use bread flour. If gluten-free, try a gluten-free all-purpose blend, being mindful of the necessary adjustments for liquid absorption.
How Do I Knead Dough Properly?
Kneading dough is key to achieving a light, fluffy texture in your rolls. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
- Press the dough down with your palms and fold it over itself. Rotate it and repeat.
- Keep kneading for about 8 to 10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic when you’re done.
- Tip: If the dough sticks, sprinkle a little more flour, but don’t overdo it!
Mastering this technique will give you the soft rolls you crave!
Soft Dinner Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- Additional melted butter (for brushing)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of hands-on preparation time and 2 to 2.5 hours total, including rising time. You’ll need roughly 1 hour for the first rise and another 30-45 minutes for the second rise. After that, just 15-18 minutes in the oven, and you’ll have warm, pillowy rolls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and sugar. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. This sweet mixture will provide the perfect environment for the yeast.
2. Activate the Yeast:
Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the warm milk mixture. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy (this means your yeast is alive and kicking!).
3. Mix in Other Ingredients:
Add the salt and the egg to your yeast mixture and mix everything together until well combined. Then, gradually add 3 1/2 cups of flour to the bowl, stirring after each addition until the dough starts to come together.
4. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep adding small amounts of flour as needed to avoid stickiness. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic when you’re done.
5. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size. Patience is key!
6. Shape the Rolls:
Once risen, punch the dough down gently to release the air. Divide it into 12 equal portions, rolling each piece into a smooth ball. This is where you start to see the magic of your hard work!
7. Second Rise:
Arrange the dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a baking sheet, leaving some space between them for expansion. Cover gently and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
8. Preheat and Bake:
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once ready, bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top. The smell will be irresistible!
9. Finish and Serve:
Take the rolls out of the oven and brush the tops with additional melted butter as soon as they come out. If desired, sprinkle a little coarse sea salt on top for an extra burst of flavor. Let them cool slightly before serving warm.
Enjoy these soft, fluffy dinner rolls alongside your favorite meal or simply by themselves—they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the rolls may turn out denser. Start by using half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour to maintain some lightness while adding extra nutrition.
How Do I Know If My Yeast Is Active?
Your yeast is active if it becomes foamy after being mixed with warm milk and sugar. If it doesn’t foam after 10 minutes, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast to ensure your rolls rise properly.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. In the morning, let it come to room temperature and rise again before shaping and baking.
How Should I Store Leftover Dinner Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven before serving.
