Buttery Yeast Dinner Rolls

Buttery yeast dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and irresistibly rich in flavor. Perfect for any meal, these homemade rolls have a golden, buttery crust and a tender interior. Whether served at holiday gatherings or alongside a weeknight dinner, these classic rolls are sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy Texture – Light, airy, and melts in your mouth.
• Perfectly Buttery – Rich buttery flavor in every bite.
• Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or everyday meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare the dough in advance and bake when needed.
• Customizable – Shape them as classic rolls, knots, or crescents.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Warm milk
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Egg

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces. Shape into rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.
6. Second Rise: Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
8. Brush with Butter: Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12-16 rolls
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 2.5-3 hours

Variations

• Garlic Herb Rolls: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs to the dough for extra flavor.
• Honey Butter Rolls: Brush with honey butter after baking for a sweet touch.
• Whole Wheat Rolls: Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
• Cheese-Stuffed Rolls: Place a small cube of cheese inside each roll before baking.
• Crescent Rolls: Roll out the dough, cut into triangles, and roll into crescents before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep for up to a week in a sealed bag or container.
• Freezer: Freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast without proofing it first. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

How do I make the rolls extra soft?

Using warm milk, kneading properly, and letting them rise fully helps achieve the softest texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Refrigerate the dough after the first rise and shape it the next day before baking.

What’s the best flour to use?

All-purpose flour works best, but you can use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

The yeast might be expired, or the liquid temperature could have been too hot or too cold.

Can I add more butter for extra flavor?

Absolutely! Brushing with extra melted butter before and after baking enhances the taste.

How do I shape the rolls evenly?

Use a kitchen scale to measure dough portions and roll them smoothly for uniform size.

Can I make these without eggs?

Yes, substitute the egg with ¼ cup of milk or yogurt for a similar texture.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can knead the dough by hand for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Can I make mini dinner rolls?

Yes! Just divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time.

Conclusion

Buttery yeast dinner rolls are a classic and comforting addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them fresh from the oven or saving them for later, their soft, pillowy texture and rich buttery flavor make them a family favorite. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a cozy homemade dinner!

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