Quick Description
These Soft & Fluffy Dinner Rolls are pillowy on the inside with a shiny, golden top and a light, airy crumb. Warm, buttery, and bakery-quality, they’re perfect as classic dinner rolls, slider buns, or sandwich bread—and they disappear fast once they hit the table.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 18–22 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 55 minutes
Nutritional Info (Per Roll – Approximate)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 4g
(Values vary based on butter and flour brands.)
Ingredients List
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F / warm, not hot)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For Brushing
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
Optional Toppings
- Sesame seeds
- Black seeds
- Mixed seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add melted butter, egg, salt, and 3 cups flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Gradually add remaining flour as needed until dough is soft but not sticky.
Step 3: Knead
Knead 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a mixer until smooth, elastic, and slightly springy.
Step 4: First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 45–60 minutes, until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces.
Roll into smooth balls and place on a lined baking tray or greased pan.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover loosely and let rise again for 15–20 minutes, until puffy.
Step 7: Brush & Top
Whisk egg yolk with milk. Brush gently over the rolls.
Sprinkle with seeds if using.
Step 8: Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, until deeply golden on top.
Step 9: Finish
Brush warm rolls with melted butter for extra softness and shine.
Additional Notes
- Dough should be soft, not dry
- Don’t skip the second rise—it gives the fluffiest texture
- Brushing with butter keeps rolls tender
Dietary Info
- Vegetarian
- Can be made dairy-free with plant milk and vegan butter
- Not gluten-free (unless using GF flour blend)
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Add garlic powder and herbs for savory rolls
- Add honey instead of sugar for subtle sweetness
- Stuff with cheese for filled rolls
- Shape into slider buns for burgers
Ingredient Substitutions
- Milk: Warm water or plant milk
- Butter: Oil or vegan butter
- Flour: Bread flour for extra chew
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter or honey
- Use as slider or sandwich buns
- Perfect with soups, stews, and holiday meals
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Room Temperature: Store covered up to 2 days
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze baked rolls up to 1 month
- Reheat briefly before serving
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes—refrigerate after the first rise and bake the next day.
Q: Why aren’t my rolls fluffy?
A: Dough may need more kneading or rise time.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely—just use a larger pan.
Q: Can I use active dry yeast?
A: Yes—proof it in warm milk first.
Conclusion
These Soft & Fluffy Dinner Rolls are the definition of comfort bread—light, buttery, and beautifully golden. Whether for everyday dinners or special occasions, this is a recipe you’ll make again and again.
