Dinner Roll Recipe: Who doesn’t love warm, soft, and fluffy dinner rolls fresh from the oven? Whether served with a hearty meal, slathered with butter, or simply enjoyed on their own, homemade dinner rolls bring comfort and joy to any table. Unlike store-bought rolls, homemade ones are free from preservatives and packed with fresh, wholesome flavors.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through how to make perfect dinner rolls from scratch. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and foolproof. Let’s get started!
Ingredients Needed
To make soft and fluffy dinner rolls, you’ll need:
For the Dough:
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra softness)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F or 45°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Brushing:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Why These Ingredients Matter:
- Flour: Provides structure; bread flour gives a chewier texture.
- Yeast: Makes the rolls rise and gives them their fluffy texture.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness.
- Sugar: Feeds the yeast and enhances flavor.
- Egg: Helps with binding and gives a soft texture.
- Butter: Adds flavor and keeps the rolls tender.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Before we start, make sure you have these kitchen essentials:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stand mixer with a dough hook (optional but helpful)
- Dough scraper or knife
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Clean kitchen towel
Having the right tools will make the process smoother and ensure great results.
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
- Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired.
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the activated yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter.
Knead the Dough:
- If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 8–10 minutes.
- If kneading by hand, work the dough for 10–12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet.
Step 2: First Rise
- Lightly grease a bowl with oil and place the dough inside.
- Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl in a slightly warm oven (turned off) for better rising.
Step 3: Shaping the Rolls
- Punch down the risen dough to remove excess air.
- Transfer to a floured surface and divide into 12–15 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges under.
- Arrange them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for expansion.
Step 4: Second Rise
- Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- The rolls should double in size and look puffy.
Step 5: Baking the Rolls
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter for a soft, shiny crust.
Step 6: Adding the Finishing Touches
- For extra flavor, sprinkle with sea salt, garlic powder, or herbs.
- For a sweet version, brush with honey butter.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dough not rising? Your yeast may be old, or the liquid might have been too hot.
- Rolls too dense? Not enough kneading or proofing time.
- Too dry? Overbaking can cause dryness; brush with butter to restore moisture.
Tips for Extra Soft and Fluffy Rolls
- Use bread flour for extra chewiness.
- Don’t rush the kneading and rising process—time is key!
- Brushing with butter keeps the rolls soft.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with soups, stews, or roasted meats.
- Make mini sandwiches with leftover rolls.
- Spread with honey, jam, or garlic butter.
How to Store and Reheat Dinner Rolls
- Store: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 10 seconds.
Variations and Flavor Twists
- Garlic Butter Rolls: Brush with garlic butter before baking.
- Honey-Glazed Rolls: Drizzle with honey butter after baking.
- Cheesy Rolls: Add shredded cheese inside the dough.
FAQs about Dinner Roll Recipe
What ingredients do I need for dinner rolls?
To make dinner rolls, you typically need flour, yeast, sugar, salt, water, and butter. Some recipes may also include eggs or milk for richness.
How long does it take to make dinner rolls?
The total time to make dinner rolls usually ranges from 2 to 3 hours, including the time needed for the dough to rise. The actual hands-on preparation time is about 30 minutes.
Can I make dinner rolls ahead of time?
Yes, dinner rolls can be made ahead. You can prepare the dough, shape the rolls, and then refrigerate them overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature and rise before baking.
Do dinner rolls need to be kneaded?
Yes, kneading is important for developing gluten, which gives the rolls their texture. Kneading can be done by hand or with a dough hook in a stand mixer.
What makes dinner rolls soft and fluffy?
Soft and fluffy dinner rolls are typically achieved by ensuring the dough is properly kneaded and allowed to rise sufficiently. Using ingredients like milk, eggs, and butter also contributes to a tender texture.
Can I freeze dinner rolls?
Absolutely! Baked dinner rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to preserve freshness. Thaw and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
What can I serve with dinner rolls?
Dinner rolls are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, or any main course. They are also perfect for making sliders or mini sandwiches.
Conclusion
Making homemade dinner rolls is easier than you think! With simple ingredients and step-by-step guidance, you can bake soft, fluffy rolls that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and enjoy the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread!
