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Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 82 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These soft and buttery homemade rolls are perfect for any meal or occasion. With a tender crumb and golden crust, they are easy to make from scratch using simple ingredients. The rolls are made with warm milk, yeast, butter, and flour, rising twice for a fluffy texture. Finished with an optional buttery glaze, they’re delicious served warm straight from the oven.


Ingredients

Dough

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

Optional Topping

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for brushing


Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, and egg. Add the yeast mixture and stir until well incorporated.
  3. Add Flour and Knead: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, half a cup at a time, stirring to combine until a dough forms that begins to pull from the sides of the bowl. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
  6. Shape Rolls: Punch down the dough to release gas. Divide it into 12 equal portions, shape each into a ball, and arrange them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  7. Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls with a cloth and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes until doubled in size.
  8. Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and fully cooked through.
  9. Butter Glaze (Optional): Remove the hot rolls from the oven and brush with melted butter for a glossy, buttery finish and extra softness.
  10. Cool and Serve: Allow rolls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Make sure the milk is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast; aim for about 110°F (45°C).
  • For softer rolls, you can increase the butter brushed on top after baking.
  • If preferred, substitute some all-purpose flour with bread flour for chewier texture.
  • Store leftover rolls in an airtight container to maintain freshness for 2-3 days.
  • These rolls can be frozen after baking; thaw and warm before serving.