These soft dinner rolls are like little clouds of goodness! They’re golden, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up gravy or spreading with butter.
Who doesn’t love freshly baked rolls? I always make a double batch because they disappear fast—especially when warm! 🍞💖
Making these rolls is a breeze! Just mix, let them rise, and pop them in the oven. You’ll have a lovely basket of goodness in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your rolls. If you need a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve found that different brands can yield varied textures, so try a few to see what you like best.
Granulated Sugar: Sugar adds sweetness and helps with browning. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using honey or agave syrup in a smaller quantity, but these may alter the dough’s texture slightly.
Active Dry Yeast: Essential for the dough to rise. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results! You can substitute with instant yeast (use the same amount) if you prefer. I often keep instant yeast on hand for convenience.
Whole Milk: Warm milk adds richness. You can use almond, soy, or oat milk as a dairy-free alternative. Just make sure it’s warmed up to around 110°F (43°C) for the yeast to activate.
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter for better control over the salt balance. If you’re out, coconut oil or vegetable oil works as a substitute, but the flavor will differ somewhat.
How Do I Knead Dough Properly?
Kneading dough helps develop gluten, which gives the rolls their structure and chew. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Dust your work surface lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
- Transfer your dough and push it down gently with the heels of your hands.
- Fold the dough over itself and turn it a quarter turn. Repeat this motion for about 5-7 minutes.
- When it’s smooth and elastic, it’s done! A good test is poking it; if it springs back, you’re all set.
Remember, it’s okay for the dough to feel sticky initially; just add flour gradually. Enjoy the process—and your delicious rolls!
How to Make Soft Dinner Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- Additional melted butter for brushing
- Coarse sea salt for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time, plus around 2 hours for the dough to rise in total. Baking will take an additional 15 to 18 minutes, so you can enjoy freshly baked rolls in about 2 and a half hours (most of this time is just waiting for the dough to rise!).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir everything together until mixed well. Then, add the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until everything is well combined. This is the beginning of your dough!
2. Kneading the Dough:
Gradually mix in the remaining 2 cups of flour, adding it 1/2 cup at a time. Once added, knead the dough with the dough hook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, don’t worry! Just sprinkle a little flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it feels right.
3. First Rise:
Now it’s time for the dough to rise! Form the dough into a ball and place it in a large greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel, and put it in a warm spot to rise until it has doubled in size. This will take about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
4. Shaping the Rolls:
When the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pulling the edges under and pinching them at the bottom, creating tight rolls.
5. Second Rise:
Arrange the dough balls evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan or on a lined baking sheet. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until they look puffy and adorable.
6. Baking the Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, pop them in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they become a beautiful golden brown on top.
7. Finishing Touches:
When they’re done baking, take them out of the oven and brush the tops generously with melted butter. If you’d like, sprinkle a touch of coarse sea salt on top for an extra kick of flavor. Let them cool slightly before serving, and you’ll be ready to enjoy these fluffy rolls warm from the oven!
These soft dinner rolls are perfect with any meal or just on their own. Enjoy!
Can I Use Bread Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can! Bread flour will give your rolls a chewier texture thanks to its higher protein content. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly, as bread flour can absorb more moisture.
How Do I Know if My Yeast is Active?
To check if your yeast is active, mix it with warm water (about 110°F/43°C) and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. If it becomes frothy and bubbly, your yeast is good to go! If it doesn’t, it’s best to start with fresh yeast.
Can I Make the Dough the Night Before?
Absolutely! After kneading the dough, place it in a greased bowl, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it come to room temperature and rise for about 1 hour before continuing with shaping and the second rise.
How Should I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they’ll last for about 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
