Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls
Introduction
Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls are a timeless classic, loved for their golden-brown tops and ultra-soft, airy centers. Fresh from the oven, these rolls fill the kitchen with a warm buttery aroma and are the perfect companion to any meal, from simple weeknight dinners to festive holiday tables.
Ingredients
Flour
4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour, sifted
Yeast
1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast or instant yeast
Liquid
1 cup warm milk (about 45°C / 110°F)
¼ cup warm water
Fats
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
Sweetener & Salt
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
Egg
1 large egg, room temperature
Glaze
1 egg beaten with a splash of milk (egg wash)
Melted butter for brushing after baking
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix warm water, a pinch of sugar, and yeast.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine yeast mixture, warm milk, melted butter, sugar, salt, and egg.
Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
Punch down the dough and divide into 12–15 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet or greased pan.
Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
Brush tops with egg wash.
Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
Brush immediately with melted butter after baking.
How to Make
Place dough balls close together for a pull-apart effect.
Brush with butter as soon as they come out of the oven.
Use a warm, draft-free place for rising.
Allow rolls to cool slightly before serving.
Variations
Garlic Herb Rolls
Add garlic powder to the dough and brush with garlic-parsley butter.
Honey Butter Rolls
Replace sugar with honey for a richer sweetness.
Cheese-Stuffed Rolls
Add a cube of mozzarella or cheddar inside each dough ball before shaping.
Tips
Ensure liquids are warm, not hot, to protect the yeast.
Avoid adding too much flour to keep rolls soft.
Use the finger-poke test to check readiness before baking.
Let rolls rest for 10 minutes before pulling apart.
Conclusion
Nothing compares to the taste and aroma of freshly baked bread. These Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls are easy to make, wonderfully soft, and guaranteed to become a favorite at any table.