Soft & Buttery Dinner Rolls

There’s something incredibly special about homemade dinner rolls. The warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake, the delightful texture that melts in your mouth, and the joy of sharing them with family and friends all contribute to an experience that’s both satisfying and heartwarming. Soft and buttery dinner rolls are a staple in many culinary traditions, gracing tables during holidays, family gatherings, and everyday meals alike. They can elevate any dining experience, making it feel more special, and they perfectly complement a wide range of dishes, from savory mains to sweet spreads.

Discover the joy of baking with this step-by-step guide to creating heavenly soft and buttery dinner rolls. Experience the comforting aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture as you master the art of bread-making. Learn about essential ingredients like all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and unsalted butter, and follow simple techniques for kneading, rising, and baking. Share these delicious rolls with family and friends, and elevate your dining experiences. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of homemade goodness!

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Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)

1 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs, room temperature

1/4 cup honey (optional, for added sweetness)

1 tablespoon of unsalted butter for brushing (melted, for finishing)

Instructions

Activate the Yeast:

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it's frothy and bubbly.

Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and optional honey. Ensure the mixture is well blended.

Combine the Mixture:

Once the yeast is frothy, add it to the wet ingredients. Stir to combine.

Make the Dough:

Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the Dough:

Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Add a little flour as needed to prevent sticking.

First Rise:

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Rolls:

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath.

Second Rise:

Place the dough balls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Cover the dish with a towel and allow the rolls to rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.

Bake the Rolls:

Once the rolls have risen, brush the tops lightly with melted butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until they are golden brown.

Finish and Serve:

Remove the rolls from the oven and brush them with a little extra melted butter for added shine and flavor. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, soft, and buttery dinner rolls!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 3 hours | 12 rolls