Description
These soft and fluffy dinner rolls are a classic homemade bread perfect for any meal. Made with simple ingredients like flour, yeast, milk, butter, and eggs, these rolls have a tender crumb and golden-brown crust. They are perfect for serving warm alongside soups, salads, or main dishes and are easy to prepare with a bit of kneading and rising time.
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 Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, mix together 3 1/2 cups of flour, salt, the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and the egg. Stir until a dough begins to form. If the dough is too sticky or soft, gradually add the remaining flour until it is manageable to knead.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you may use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to knead for an equivalent time until the desired texture is reached.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, then cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free location for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Gently punch down the risen dough 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, leaving some space between each roll.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls with a towel or plastic wrap and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until they are puffed and nearly doubled in size.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Just before baking, brush the tops of the rolls generously with melted butter to help develop a rich, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with additional melted butter for extra flavor and softness. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- If the dough is sticky after kneading, add flour gradually in small amounts to avoid tough rolls.
- For softer rolls, cover them with a damp cloth while rising to retain moisture.
- These rolls can be frozen after shaping and before the second rise; thaw thoroughly and allow to rise before baking.
- Brush with garlic butter or herbs after baking for a flavorful variation.
