If there’s one recipe that can bring people to the table faster than the aroma of Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls wafting from the oven, I haven’t found it yet. These rolls are the very definition of comfort: pillowy, golden, and rich, with a glorious, melt-in-your-mouth texture and just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a festive holiday spread, or simply want to turn an average meal into something special, these homemade rolls, with their irresistible scent and unbeatable taste, are your secret weapon for instant warmth and happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beautiful simplicity of these Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls comes from just a handful of essential ingredients, each lending its magic. Let’s talk about how every element works in harmony for rolls that are cloud-soft, flavorful, and golden on top.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for fluffy, tender rolls that hold their shape without being dense.
- Active dry yeast: The leavening hero! This brings your dough to life and ensures those classic, light, airy layers.
- Warm milk (about 110°F): Helps activate the yeast and adds richness—be sure it’s not too hot, or it can harm the yeast.
- Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and brings just a desirable hint of sweetness to the dough.
- Unsalted butter, softened: Makes every bite rich and, well, buttery; using unsalted gives you complete control over flavor.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and strengthens the dough’s flavor foundation—don’t skip it!
- Large egg: Helps bind the dough and gives the rolls their beautiful color and extra tenderness.
- Melted butter (for brushing): The finishing touch: a buttery glaze for that irresistible sheen and even more flavor.
How to Make Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
First things first: in a large mixing bowl, stir together the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture hang out for 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know the yeast is happy and ready to go when it forms a frothy, bubbly layer on the surface—this is your sign of dough magic in motion.
Step 2: Mix In the Goodness
Once your yeast is nice and foamy, add the softened butter, egg, and salt straight into the bowl. Begin adding the flour gradually—start slow, mixing in a cup at a time, until you have a soft, shaggy dough ready to be turned into your future favorite rolls.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for ease) and knead your dough for about 6 to 8 minutes. What you want is a smooth, elastic ball of dough that feels springy and soft but not sticky. This step builds the structure for your Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls, guaranteeing that coveted pillowy texture.
Step 4: First Rise
Transfer the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about an hour. When it’s doubled in size—looking plump and airy—you’re just steps away from bready bliss.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Punch the dough down gently to release excess air, then divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round roll and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a baking sheet, with just a little space between each. Cover again and let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes; this second rise guarantees light, fluffy layers in every roll.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
While the rolls finish their second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15 to 18 minutes, watching for that perfect golden-brown finish. The kitchen will smell heavenly—don’t be surprised if everyone gathers around the oven!
Step 7: Finish with Buttery Brilliance
As soon as the rolls are out of the oven, brush them generously with melted butter. This not only adds unbeatable flavor but also gives them a gorgeous, enticing sheen. Serve warm and swoon at your handiwork.
How to Serve Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls
Garnishes
The classic finish is a simple brushing of melted butter, but you can absolutely elevate your Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls by dusting with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary, or even a touch of grated Parmesan for a savory crust. A touch of garlic butter is pure magic, especially for dinner parties.
Side Dishes
These rolls are designed to be shared, and they happily take a supporting role beside everything from creamy mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables and hearty stews. At holiday tables, they’re perfect for soaking up every last drop of gravy or soup, making them a versatile favorite with any main course.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t hesitate to have fun with your presentation: try arranging your rolls in concentric circles in a round dish for a “pull-apart” centerpiece, or serve them in a lined basket with a linen napkin to keep them warm. If you’re going for rustic charm, let folks tear them apart family-style for instant coziness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and prevents them from drying out, so you can enjoy them just as much the next day.
Freezing
These rolls are freezer-friendly in the best way. After baking and cooling completely, you can store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. For extra protection, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap before packing to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating
To revive that freshly-baked taste, reheat rolls in a 300°F oven for 7 to 10 minutes, or give them a quick zap in the microwave (about 15 seconds per roll). If you’ve got time, brush with a little extra melted butter before reheating for that out-of-the-oven softness and shine.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise and then store it covered in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready, simply let the dough come to room temperature, shape, and proceed with the second rise and baking.
Why didn’t my rolls turn out soft?
The most common culprit is adding too much flour; make sure to add it gradually and stop when the dough is soft but not too sticky. Overbaking can also dry out the rolls, so keep an eye on them during the final minutes of baking.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Simply whisk the instant yeast right in with your flour, skipping the activation step with warm milk and sugar. Continue as directed for perfectly fluffy Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls.
What add-ins can I try for more flavor?
Try folding in grated cheese, roasted garlic, or fresh chopped herbs like thyme or chives for a gourmet twist. For a sweet option, raisins or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar work beautifully.
How do I get perfectly even rolls?
To ensure uniform rolls, weigh your dough on a kitchen scale and divide by twelve so each piece is the same size. Roll each piece into a smooth ball for professional-looking results, every time.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the indescribable joy that comes with baking and sharing Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls. There’s something truly magical about pulling apart one of these golden beauties and watching that steam rise. Whether it’s a special family gathering or an ordinary weeknight, these rolls are guaranteed to make it memorable. Give them a try and make every meal a reason to celebrate!
Print
Fluffy Homemade Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the soft and buttery goodness of these homemade rolls that are perfect for any occasion. These rolls are easy to make and will impress your family and friends with their delicious flavor and fluffy texture.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
For Brushing:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Add softened butter, egg, salt, and gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Rise the Dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape and Bake: Punch down the dough, divide into 12 pieces, shape into rolls, and place in a greased baking dish. Let rise for 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes until golden. Brush with melted butter.
Notes
- These rolls freeze well after baking.
- For extra flavor, mix garlic or herbs into the melted butter before brushing.
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