Soft Dinner Rolls

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F, 43°C)
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• Additional melted butter for brushing
• Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • Dissolve the yeast and a pinch of sugar in warm water. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture, the rest of the sugar, warm milk, melted butter, beaten egg, and salt.
   • Start adding the flour gradually, mixing until the dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, adding more flour as necessary, until the dough is soft and slightly sticky but manageable.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat all sides. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. Shape the Rolls:
   • Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal pieces.
   • Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased baking dish or tray with just enough space to allow them to expand and touch upon rising.
6. Second Rise:
   • Cover the shaped rolls with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffed up.
7. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the second rise.
8. Bake the Rolls:
   • Brush the tops of the rolls with additional melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the rolls from the oven, let them cool slightly in the pan, and then transfer to a wire rack.
   • Serve warm with butter, or use as needed for meals or sandwiches.

These dinner rolls are delightfully soft and flavorful, perfect for any dining occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious results