Description

Soft, buttery, and fluffy homemade dinner rolls that rival bakery quality. This reliable recipe uses simple pantry staples and a specific kneading technique to create the perfect texture.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup warm whole milk (110°F/43°C)
1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg, room temperature
3 to 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Stir in the melted butter and egg until fully combined.
Add salt and 2 cups of flour. Stir with a wooden spoon or mixer on low speed. Gradually add more flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled.
Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball and place seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes.
Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
Immediately brush hot rolls with melted butter. Let cool in pan for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure milk is warm (110°F) but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. Kneading is crucial for texture; dough should feel smooth and elastic. If kitchen is cold, rise dough in an oven with just the light on. Rolls can be frozen for up to three months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 130
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 200
Fat: 4
Saturated Fat: 2.5
Carbohydrates: 18
Fiber: 1
Protein: 3

Keywords: homemade dinner rolls, yeast rolls, bakery style bread, soft dinner rolls, easy bread recipe, side dish, baking from scratch