Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked rolls filling your kitchen. These soft and buttery homemade rolls are the perfect addition to any meal, from holiday feasts to simple weeknight dinners. Light, fluffy, and irresistibly tender, they boast a rich buttery flavor with a golden crust that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this foolproof recipe will guide you to bakery-quality rolls every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy Texture – These rolls have a pillowy interior with a delicate golden-brown crust.
• Rich Buttery Flavor – Every bite is infused with buttery goodness.
• Versatile – Perfect for sandwiches, dinner sides, or even as a breakfast treat with jam.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh rolls when needed.
• Beginner-Friendly – A simple process with easy-to-follow steps.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for brushing, melted)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5 minutes.

4. First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

6. Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30–45 minutes, or until puffy.

7. Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

8. Brush with Butter

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them with melted butter for a shiny, flavorful finish.

Variations

• Garlic Butter Rolls – Mix minced garlic into the butter before brushing the rolls.
• Cheesy Rolls – Add shredded cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.
• Herb-Infused – Sprinkle dried herbs like rosemary or thyme over the rolls before baking.
• Sweet Honey Rolls – Substitute sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Bake Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked rolls in an airtight bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If your yeast mixture doesn’t foam within 10 minutes, it may be inactive. Use fresh yeast and ensure the milk is warm but not too hot.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Why are my rolls dense instead of fluffy?

Dense rolls usually result from not kneading enough, using too much flour, or not allowing enough rising time. Make sure the dough is smooth and elastic before letting it rise.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the rolls will be slightly denser.

How can I make these dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free milk alternative and replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in two baking dishes.

What can I serve these rolls with?

They pair well with soups, stews, holiday meals, or as a sandwich base.

How do I get a glossy finish on the rolls?

Brushing the rolls with melted butter or an egg wash before baking will create a beautiful shine.

Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?

Yes, you can use the dough cycle of a bread machine, then shape and bake the rolls in the oven.

Conclusion

These soft and buttery homemade rolls are a must-have for any meal. They are easy to make, incredibly fluffy, and loaded with rich, buttery flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, these rolls will be a hit. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll never go back to store-bought rolls again!

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