If you have ever dreamed of baking the perfect, fluffy, and buttery rolls that practically melt in your mouth, then this Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. These tender rolls are soft to the touch and heavenly in flavor, making them the ultimate side for any meal, from casual family dinners to festive holiday feasts. The way these rolls rise beautifully and bake into golden perfection will make you feel like a true baking star every time you bring them to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe is in its simple, classic ingredients. Each item plays an important role, whether it’s the yeast that gives life to the dough, or the butter that adds richness and that irresistible golden crust.
- Warm milk: About 110°F is key to activate the yeast without killing it, ensuring the perfect rise.
- Active dry yeast: The magical ingredient that makes your rolls fluffy and full of air pockets.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the buttery flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and slightly cooled for a tender crumb and rich aroma.
- Large egg: Contributes to the softness and firmness of the dough.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping these rolls deliciously soft.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate balance.
- Additional melted butter: For brushing on top, giving the rolls that beautiful shine and extra flavor.
How to Make Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl or your stand mixer. This is a crucial moment where patience pays off because you want to wait 5 to 10 minutes until you see a foamy, bubbly surface. That foam means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic for soft, airy rolls.
Step 2: Mix in Butter and Egg
Next, stir in the melted butter and the large egg. These ingredients add richness and moisture, which help create that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love in a perfect dinner roll.
Step 3: Add Flour and Salt
Slowly add the flour and salt while mixing with a dough hook or wooden spoon. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky, which is exactly what you want for tender rolls. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until your dough turns smooth and elastic—this step develops gluten, giving your rolls structure while keeping them light.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size and looks puffy—a key sign your Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe is on track to deliciousness!
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
After punching down the dough to release air, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, which helps ensure an even, attractive shape and consistent rising. Place them snugly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish—remember, the rolls will expand and rise more, so a snug fit encourages soft sides.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise again for 30 to 40 minutes until they’re puffy and nearly touching. This second rise is the secret to those incredibly soft centers and perfect golden tops.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’ll turn a gorgeous golden brown that signals they are just right. As soon as they come out, brush the tops with melted butter to give your rolls that inviting shine and buttery finish.
How to Serve Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
While these rolls are stunning on their own, brushing them with additional melted butter fresh out of the oven elevates their appeal. For a fun twist, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the butter for a flavorful glow that will impress your guests.
Side Dishes
Soft dinner rolls pair beautifully with everything from hearty stews and creamy soups to festive roasts and salads. They are especially fantastic for sopping up gravy or buttery sauces, making dinner feel just a little more special and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these rolls warm, straight from the pan, arranged in a basket lined with a pretty cloth napkin to keep them cozy. For an extra special touch, try sliding feta cheese or garlic butter packets alongside your rolls for guests to customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep their softness, avoid refrigeration, as it tends to dry out the bread faster.
Freezing
These rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then let them come to room temperature and finish a quick 20-minute warm-up in the oven.
Reheating
To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, but for the best texture, a gentle oven heat is the way to go.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the flour without proofing it in warm milk. Just reduce the warm milk slightly and proceed with the rest of the recipe as usual.
Why are my rolls not soft enough?
Your rolls might turn out less soft if the dough is too dry or over-kneaded. Make sure the milk is warm but not hot, and keep the dough slightly sticky to encourage tenderness.
Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour?
You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but be aware that the texture might be denser and less soft. Adding a bit more moisture can help balance this.
How long can I let the dough rise?
The first rise should take about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, but you can let it go longer if your kitchen is cool. Just keep an eye on the dough doubling in size rather than strictly timing it.
Is it possible to make these rolls vegan?
To make a vegan Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg. You may also want to use non-dairy milk to keep everything dairy-free.
Final Thoughts
Getting the perfect soft dinner rolls into your baking rotation is a game-changer. This Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe is straightforward enough for any level of baker but guaranteed to impress everyone at your table. Once you taste the tender crumb and buttery goodness fresh from the oven, these rolls will quickly become one of your treasured homemade favorites. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy the warm, comforting joy of soft rolls made with love.
Print
Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1.5 to 2 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Soft Dinner Rolls are fluffy, tender, and perfectly golden brown, making them an ideal homemade bread to accompany any meal. Made with simple ingredients like warm milk, yeast, butter, and flour, these rolls offer a comforting texture with a buttery finish, perfect for holiday sides or everyday dinners.
Ingredients
Yeast Mixture
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Dough
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Finishing
- Additional melted butter for brushing
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture, stirring thoroughly to blend all liquids together.
- Mix the Dough: Gradually add flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing with a dough hook or wooden spoon until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, ensuring proper gluten development for fluffy rolls.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces, shaping each piece into a smooth ball, and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls, letting them rise again for 30 to 40 minutes until puffy and touching each other, signaling they’re ready to bake.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top.
- Brush with Butter: Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter for a shiny, flavorful finish.
- Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving warm alongside your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Prepare ahead by shaping and refrigerating the rolls overnight before the second rise. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.
- Baked rolls can be frozen and reheated as needed, maintaining freshness and texture.
