Soft and Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls

Soft and Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls

Introduction

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen — warm, comforting, and inviting. These Soft and Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls are the perfect embodiment of that magic. With their pillowy texture, golden-brown crust, and subtly buttery flavor, they’re a wonderful addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty stew, a holiday feast, or simply enjoying them fresh from the oven with butter, these rolls bring homemade comfort to the table in the most delightful way.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour

• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

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• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)

• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 large egg

For Brushing:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing after baking)

Preparation

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes, until the mixture becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to give the rolls that perfect rise.

2. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), combine flour and salt. Add the softened butter, beaten egg, and activated yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook on medium speed for about 6–8 minutes. If kneading by hand, work the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

3. Let It Rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into 12–15 equal pieces (depending on your desired size). Shape each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath. Place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

5. Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls lightly with a towel and let them rise again for about 30–45 minutes, or until puffy and nearly doubled in size.

6. Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. The tops should sound slightly hollow when tapped.

7. Brush with Butter

Remove from the oven and immediately brush each roll with melted butter. This gives them a soft, shiny finish and enhances their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these warm dinner rolls with butter, honey, or jam for breakfast or as a side for savory dishes like soups, roasts, or stews. They also make an excellent base for sliders or mini sandwiches — soft, flavorful, and perfectly sized.

Storage

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave for 10–15 seconds per roll.

Conclusion

These Soft and Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls are more than just bread — they’re a warm gesture of comfort and love, baked right into every bite. Their tender crumb and buttery flavor make them a timeless favorite for family dinners and festive gatherings alike. Simple yet special, this recipe guarantees rolls so light and airy they’ll disappear from the table before you know it. Once you make them from scratch, store-bought rolls will never compare.