Pin Soft, fluffy, and beautifully golden, these classic dinner rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. Their tender crumb and buttery flavor make them irresistible fresh from the oven.
This recipe has become a staple in my family for holiday dinners and weeknight meals alike. Everyone loves them fresh from the oven!
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 1/4 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour
- Dough: 2 1/4 tsp (7 g) active dry yeast
- Dough: 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- Dough: 1 tsp (6 g) salt
- Dough: 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, warmed to 110°F/43°C
- Dough: 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- Dough: 1 large egg, room temperature
- For Brushing: 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix to combine.
- Step 3:
- Gradually add flour, stirring with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a soft dough forms.
- Step 4:
- Knead on a floured surface (or with a mixer) for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Step 5:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 6:
- Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
- Step 7:
- Arrange balls in a greased 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
- Step 8:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 9:
- Brush rolls with melted butter.
- Step 10:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 11:
- Remove from oven and brush again with remaining butter. Let cool slightly before serving.
Pin My kids especially love helping shape the dough balls, making it a wonderful family activity before enjoying the warm rolls together.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, wooden spoon or stand mixer with dough hook, measuring cups and spoons, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, pastry brush, kitchen towel
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, egg. For allergy concerns, verify labels on all ingredients. Substitute as needed for dairy- or egg-free diets.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 180 calories, 6 g total fat, 27 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein
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With these tips, your golden dinner rolls will turn out perfectly every time and be a hit at your table.
Recipe Q&A
- → What makes the rolls soft and fluffy?
The combination of warm milk, yeast activation, and double rising ensures a tender, airy crumb for soft and fluffy rolls.
- → Can these rolls be made dairy-free?
Yes, substituting whole milk with plant-based milk and butter with vegan margarine works well for a dairy-free option.
- → How do you achieve the golden crust on the rolls?
Brushing the rolls with melted butter before and after baking enhances browning and adds a glossy golden finish.
- → Is there an option to add herbs for flavor?
Absolutely, adding dried rosemary or thyme to the dough infuses aromatic notes that complement the buttery base.
- → How long do the rolls stay fresh after baking?
They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days or frozen for longer preservation.