Quick Description
These Fluffy Homemade Rolls are incredibly soft, light, and fluffy, with a slight buttery flavor. They’re the perfect side dish for any meal and can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have fresh rolls that will melt in your mouth!
Servings & Timing
Serves: 12–16 rolls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Rest Time: 1–2 hours (for dough rise)
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: ~2 hours
Ingredients List
- 1/2 cup warm water (for yeast)
- 1 packet yeast (or 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening (or butter)
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
Instructions
-
Activate Yeast
Add 1/2 cup warm water to a medium bowl or cup. Sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. (This ensures the yeast is active.) -
Prepare the Dough Base
In a large bowl, combine boiling water, sugar, salt, and vegetable shortening. Stir until the shortening is completely melted. Let the mixture cool to lukewarm. -
Combine Yeast and Egg
Crack 1 egg into the yeast water mixture and whisk to combine. -
Mix the Dough
Pour the egg-yeast mixture into the melted shortening mixture. Gradually add flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. -
Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl (using vegetable shortening), rubbing some shortening over the top of the dough to prevent sticking. Cover with a tea towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size. -
Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Roll dough into small balls (about 12–16) and place them in a greased baking pan. -
Let Rise Again
Cover the pan with a tea towel and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes. -
Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15–20 minutes until they’re golden brown on top. -
Cool & Serve
Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. For a buttery finish, brush the tops with melted butter.
Nutrition (per roll – approximate)
Calories: 120
Protein: 2g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Benefits
- No preservatives—only fresh ingredients
- Can be made ahead—store in the fridge for up to a week
- Versatile—use them for sandwiches, with soup, or as a dinner side
- Customizable—add herbs or garlic butter for extra flavor
Additional Notes
- Storage: Dough can be kept in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container, so you can bake fresh rolls whenever you need them!
- Vegan Option: Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use vegetable shortening or a vegan butter substitute.
- Fluffy Tip: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If the water is too hot, it may kill the yeast—aim for 110°F (43°C).
Dietary Info
Vegetarian: ✅
Vegan Option: ✅ (with substitutions)
Gluten-Free: ❌ (unless using gluten-free flour)
Low-Carb: ❌ (but a delicious treat for carb-lovers)
Brief Introduction
There’s something magical about Fluffy Homemade Rolls—soft, warm, and the perfect accompaniment to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have fresh rolls that everyone will love. Plus, you can store the dough in the fridge and bake them as needed!
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Activate yeast → Prepare dough base → Combine & mix → Let rise → Shape rolls → Let rise again → Bake → Cool & serve
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Vegetable Shortening: Butter can be used, but shortening makes the rolls fluffier.
- Flour: You can use whole wheat flour for a heartier version, but it may change the texture.
- Egg: Use flax egg or applesauce for egg-free version.
- Sugar: You can swap sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Garlic Herb Rolls: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs to the dough.
- Cheddar Rolls: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the dough for cheesy rolls.
- Cinnamon Rolls: Add cinnamon and sugar to make sweet rolls.
Serve With
- Soup, stew, or salad
- Grilled meats or burgers
- As a breakfast roll with jam or honey
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate dough: up to 1 week in an airtight container
Reheat rolls: microwave for 10-15 seconds, or toast for a crispy finish
Freezing: After baking, freeze the rolls and reheat in the oven.
FAQs
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, shape the dough into rolls and freeze before the final rise. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.
Can I make this recipe without vegetable shortening?
Yes, you can use butter instead, but the texture may not be as fluffy.
How do I know when the rolls are done?
They should be golden brown on top, and you can tap the bottom to see if it sounds hollow.
Optional Personal Story
These Fluffy Homemade Rolls have been a family favorite for years. They’re so easy to make, and I love how the dough can sit in the fridge until I’m ready to bake fresh rolls—perfect for weeknight dinners or holidays!
Call-to-Action
Make these Fluffy Homemade Rolls today and elevate your next meal with a side of comfort. Soft, warm, and irresistible—these rolls are the perfect addition to any table!
