Homemade dinner rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, whether it’s a festive holiday dinner or a cozy weeknight family gathering. These fluffy, soft rolls have a wonderful buttery flavor, and they’re surprisingly easy to make from scratch. The warm, golden-brown crust and pillowy inside will make them a favorite on your table.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Homemade Dinner Rolls
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of homemade dinner rolls. Firstly, the aroma of fresh bread baking in the oven is simply irresistible. And when you make them yourself, you have control over the ingredients, ensuring they’re fresh and free from preservatives. These rolls pair perfectly with soups, stews, or as a base for sliders. Plus, they are a fantastic way to impress your family and friends.
How to Make Homemade Dinner Rolls
## Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 large eggs
- Additional melted butter for brushing
## Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. This mixture creates the base for your dough, providing structure and flavor.
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Step 2: Mixing
Add the melted butter, warm milk, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough starts to form. It’s okay if it’s a bit sticky—this will help create those lovely fluffy rolls!
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Step 3: Kneading
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten and gives your rolls their light texture.
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Step 4: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour. This is where the magic happens as the yeast does its job!
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Step 5: Shaping
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release some air, then divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them into a greased baking dish, keeping them close together for a soft texture when baked.
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Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the rolls and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. This second rise will ensure they’re light and fluffy.
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Step 7: Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
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Step 8: Finishing Touch
Brush the warm rolls with additional melted butter and serve them warm. Their buttery sheen makes them even more inviting!
How to Serve Homemade Dinner Rolls
These dinner rolls are incredibly versatile. Serve them fresh out of the oven alongside your favorite soups or stews, or use them as an accompaniment to a hearty meal. You can even slice them open and add a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a sweet touch. They make excellent bases for mini sandwiches at gatherings too!
How to Store Homemade Dinner Rolls
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature, then reheat in the oven for freshness!
Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Dinner Rolls
- Ensure your yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date.
- For a richer flavor, use milk instead of water and add an extra tablespoon of butter to the dough.
- Experiment with herb-infused butter or garlic for brushing after baking to add flavor.
- If you have a stand mixer, use it for easy kneading—just attach the dough hook!
Delicious Variations
- Cheesy Dinner Rolls: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, to the dough.
- Herbed Rolls: Mix dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the flour for a fragrant twist.
- Sweet Rolls: Add cinnamon and sugar to the dough and top with icing for a dessert option.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, just proof the active dry yeast in warm water with sugar for about 5-10 minutes before adding it to the dough. -
What can I do if my dough isn’t rising?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and you’re letting the dough rise in a warm environment. If it’s too cold, consider placing it in an oven with the light on for warmth. -
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and rising again. -
Why are my rolls dense?
This can happen if the dough is over-kneaded, or if you added too much flour. Ensure you measure correctly and knead just until it becomes soft and elastic. -
Can I add ingredients to the dough?
Yes! You might consider adding nuts, dried fruit, or cheeses directly into the dough for a unique flavor.
Conclusion
Homemade dinner rolls are not only an enjoyable cooking project, but they also create a warm, inviting atmosphere at any meal. Their soft texture and buttery flavor are sure to please everyone at your table. So why not roll up your sleeves, grab a bowl, and enjoy the comforting process of baking your very own dinner rolls? You won’t regret it!
