Soft Homemade Dinner Rolls

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 90 minutes
• Total Time: 125 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls

📝 Ingredients List

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg, room temperature

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Clean kitchen towel
• Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. In your large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt until well combined.
2. Add the warm milk, softened butter, and the egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. 🥣
3. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
6. Punch the dough down, divide into 12 equal pieces, and shape into smooth balls. Place them into your prepared baking dish.
7. Cover and let rise for a final 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake for 15 minutes until tops are golden brown. Brush with a little extra melted butter for a glossy finish! ✨

💡 Pro Tips Section

• Storage: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to one month.
• Temperature Check: Ensure your milk is warm (about 110°F) but not hot; if it’s too hot, it will kill the yeast.
• Serving Suggestion: These rolls make an incredible base for mini beef sliders or leftover shredded chicken sandwiches!

Variations

• Garlic Herb: Add 1 tsp of dried oregano and a clove of minced garlic to the dough mixture for a savory punch.
• Honey Sweetened: Swap the granulated sugar for local honey to get a deeper, richer flavor profile.

FAQ

Can I make these in advance? Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape the rolls, and refrigerate them overnight. Let them rise at room temperature the next morning before baking.

Do I need a stand mixer? Not at all! This recipe is easy to make by hand using a wooden spoon and a little bit of elbow grease during the kneading process.