Quick Description:
These Soft Dinner Rolls are warm, fluffy, and irresistibly light. Perfect for any meal, they’re the ideal side dish to complement everything from hearty soups to family dinners. With a touch of sweetness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these rolls will become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Servings & Timing:
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Rise Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Bake Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 1.5–2 hours
Nutritional Info (Per Roll – Approximate):
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 21g
- WW SmartPoints: ~4
Ingredients List:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tbsp butter, for brushing
Instructions:
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve and let sit for 5–10 minutes, or until bubbly and foamy.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape Rolls: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until puffed up.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Finish: Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining melted butter. Let cool slightly before serving.
Additional Notes:
- Tip: For a softer, richer flavor, you can use half milk and half cream.
- Variation: Add garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist.
Dietary Info:
- Vegetarian
- Can be made dairy-free (use dairy-free butter and milk alternative)
- Can be made with whole wheat flour for extra fiber
Brief Introduction:
These soft dinner rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. Their soft, pillowy texture makes them irresistible, and they’re so easy to make! Whether for a holiday dinner or just a cozy weeknight meal, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.
Flavor Tips & Variations:
- Sweet Rolls: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of honey for a sweeter flavor.
- Herb Infused: Mix in finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or garlic for an extra savory touch.
- Cheese: Add shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan to the dough for cheesy dinner rolls.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Milk: You can substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Butter: Replace with olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
- Flour: Use whole wheat flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a different twist.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh rolls the next day!
- Serving Ideas: Serve alongside soup, salads, or as a sandwich base. They also make a great breakfast roll with a little butter and jam.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze cooled rolls in a ziplock bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to serve.
