Description
Soft, buttery cloverleaf rolls with a fluffy texture and easy pull-apart shape. Perfect for holiday feasts or family dinners. Try this homemade dinner roll recipe today!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast – In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare the Dough – In a large mixing bowl, whisk flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough – Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes (or use a stand mixer for 5–7 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls – Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal portions, then further divide each into three small balls. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin and place three balls in each cup.
- Second Rise – Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake the Rolls – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush rolls with melted butter and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy – Brush with additional melted butter and serve warm.
Notes
- Garlic Herb Rolls – Add minced garlic and fresh herbs to the melted butter.
- Cheesy Rolls – Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the dough.
- Whole Wheat Rolls – Replace half of the flour with whole wheat flour.
- Sweet Rolls – Increase sugar by 1 tbsp and add a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- rise time: 1.5-2 hours
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: bread, rolls
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cloverleaf rolls, homemade dinner rolls, soft yeast rolls, buttery rolls, holiday bread