Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

If you have ever wanted to make soft, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious bread at home, this Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe is your perfect go-to. These rolls come out beautifully golden, with a tender crumb that’s just begging to be slathered with butter. Whether you’re serving them alongside a comforting meal or enjoying them fresh out of the oven with a hint of jam, these homemade rolls are sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen. Plus, the recipe is straightforward enough for both beginners and seasoned bakers to master with ease.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping it simple is the beauty of this recipe: every ingredient plays an essential role in creating the soft texture, lovely rise, and rich flavor that define these dinner rolls.

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading): The foundation for structure and that perfect dough elasticity.
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: The magical agent that makes your rolls rise and become delightfully fluffy.
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C): Provides the moisture and tenderness, while activating the yeast.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect hint of sweetness that balances the buttery notes.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Gives richness and that melt-in-your-mouth appeal.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.

How to Make Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Your journey to perfect rolls begins with waking up the yeast. Combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a large mixing bowl and let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This tells you your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Once your yeast mixture is frothy, stir in the melted butter, egg, and salt. Each of these adds depth and richness to your dough, making those rolls tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add in your flour, a cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. This slow process helps develop the dough’s perfect consistency — soft but not sticky.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn your dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. This step is key to building the gluten network that traps air and gives your rolls their wonderful texture.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. Watching your dough grow is one of the most rewarding parts of bread-making.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Then divide it into 12 even portions and shape each into a smooth ball. The uniform shaping ensures even baking and an attractive final presentation.

Step 7: Second Rise

Arrange the shaped dough balls on a greased baking sheet or in a 9×13-inch dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes. This second proof ensures light, fluffy rolls.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re beautifully golden on top and smell heavenly. This golden color is your cue that they’re perfectly cooked inside.

Step 9: Add the Finishing Touch

Right after baking, brush the rolls with melted butter for a gorgeous glossy shine and an extra layer of buttery goodness. Serve them warm for the ultimate comfort experience.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

While these rolls are divine on their own, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on top before baking brings an extra fresh aroma and flavor. A light brush of honey butter can also transform these rolls into a sweet, indulgent treat.

Side Dishes

These rolls are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with anything from hearty stews and creamy soups to festive roasts and salads. They are the perfect vehicle for soaking up sauces, gravies, and all the deliciousness on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try pulling apart the rolls in a basket lined with a colorful napkin for a casual family dinner or arrange them in a circular pattern on your serving dish to impress guests with a beautiful presentation. You can even stuff them with bits of cheese or garlic butter before baking for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any rolls left after your meal, store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature. They should stay soft and fresh for up to two days, perfect for quick snacks or sandwiches.

Freezing

These dinner rolls freeze exceptionally well. Once completely cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to three months. When you’re ready, just thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To bring your rolls back to life, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Wrapping them in foil can help maintain moisture, giving you a fresh-from-the-oven texture even days later.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and healthier roll. Keep in mind the texture might be a bit denser, but still delicious.

Why didn’t my dough rise properly?

Common reasons include using water or milk that’s too hot or too cold, or expired yeast. Make sure your liquid is warm, around 110°F (45°C), and that your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise.

Can I make these rolls without eggs?

Eggs add richness and tenderness, but for an egg-free version, you can replace the egg with an additional 3 tablespoons of melted butter or a flaxseed egg. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty.

Is it necessary to knead the dough by hand?

While kneading by hand is traditional and helps develop gluten, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to save time and effort. Just knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.

How long do these rolls stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, these rolls stay fresh and soft for about 2 days. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet to preserve that freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe is a wonderful way to bring fresh, warm bread to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. The process is straightforward, the results are absolutely delightful, and every bite feels like a warm hug. I can’t wait for you to try these rolls and discover how satisfying baking your own bread can be!

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