Description
Soft, fluffy dinner rolls with a tender crumb and buttery finish. These classic American rolls are perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you want warm, homemade bread on the table.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture; mix well to combine all liquids evenly.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, developing the gluten.
- First Rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
- Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release gases, divide into 12 equal pieces, and shape each into a smooth ball.
- Second Rise: Arrange the dough balls in a greased baking dish, cover, and allow them to rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffed.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes until they turn golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
- Butter and Serve: Brush the warm rolls with melted butter immediately after baking to give a shiny, soft crust and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra-soft rolls, replace half the milk with water.
- Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight after shaping for convenience.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American