Nothing beats the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked dinner rolls. These soft and fluffy rolls are a must-have for any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow and yields bakery-quality results. Perfectly golden and lightly brushed with butter, these dinner rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Dinner Rolls:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm, about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup water (warm, about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
For Brushing:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Preparation
Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5-6 minutes.
Let the Dough Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Rolls
- Punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 12-16 equal portions, depending on your preferred roll size.
- Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each roll.
Second Rise
- Cover the rolls loosely with a towel and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until puffy.
Bake the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
Brush with Butter
- Immediately brush the hot rolls with melted butter for a shiny, flavorful finish.
Variations
- Garlic Herb Rolls: Add minced garlic and chopped herbs like rosemary or parsley to the melted butter for brushing.
- Whole Wheat Rolls: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Cheese-Stuffed Rolls: Place a small cube of cheddar or mozzarella in the center of each dough ball before shaping.
Cooking Note
- Ensure your liquids are warm but not hot—temperatures above 120°F can kill the yeast.
- If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in a slightly warmed (but off) oven for faster rising.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter for a classic side.
- Pair with soups, stews, or a holiday spread.
- Use leftover rolls for mini sandwiches or sliders.
Tips
- To make ahead, shape the rolls after the first rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.
- Store baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 2 hours
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Roll)**
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can. Skip the activation step and mix the instant yeast directly with the dry ingredients.
Can I make dinner rolls without eggs?
Yes, substitute the eggs with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup plain yogurt per egg.
Why are my rolls not fluffy?
This could be due to over-kneading, under-kneading, or not allowing the dough to rise fully. Ensure the yeast is fresh and active.
Conclusion
Soft, fluffy, and buttery, these homemade dinner rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. With their golden crust and pillowy interior, they’ll quickly become a staple at your table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields consistently delicious results. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting joy of fresh-baked bread!