Quick Dinner Rolls

Quick Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal. With a simple dough and just a little time to rise, these rolls come together quickly without compromising on taste. Whether you’re having a family dinner, hosting guests, or serving a holiday meal, these dinner rolls will be a delightful addition to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Quick Dinner Rolls are easy to make and come out light, airy, and golden brown every time. The dough rises in just under an hour, meaning you can enjoy fresh, homemade rolls without the lengthy preparation. Perfect for beginners and busy home cooks alike, they are ideal for pairing with soups, stews, roasted meats, or anything else on your dinner menu. Plus, the soft, buttery texture is simply irresistible!

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

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

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, salt, and egg. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the bowl and stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 10-15 minutes.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top.
9. Remove from the oven and brush with additional melted butter, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Rise Time: 40-60 minutes
• Bake Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Garlic Butter Rolls: Brush the rolls with garlic butter before baking for a savory twist.
• Cheese Rolls: Add shredded cheese into the dough for cheesy dinner rolls. Mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan all work well.
• Herb Rolls: Mix in dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the dough for an herbaceous flavor.
• Whole Wheat Rolls: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or microwave them for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. You won’t need to proof the yeast in warm water, so you can simply add it directly to the dry ingredients.

How do I know when the dough is ready to rise?

The dough is ready when it has doubled in size. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes in a warm place. You can test the dough by gently pressing a finger into it—if the indentation remains, the dough is ready.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! After the first rise, you can cover the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature and finish the second rise before baking.

Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough. Mix the ingredients together with the dough hook on low speed, then increase to medium speed and knead for about 5 minutes.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough before the second rise. After shaping the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, freeze them, and then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.

What if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a little at a time, until it becomes soft and elastic but not too dry.

Can I add other ingredients like cheese or herbs to the dough?

Yes, you can add shredded cheese, herbs, or even garlic powder to the dough to customize the flavor. Just mix them in after the dough has been formed.

How can I make these rolls extra fluffy?

Ensure you allow the dough enough time to rise fully and don’t overwork the dough when shaping the rolls. The second rise in the baking dish is also key for a light, fluffy texture.

How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls are done when they’re golden brown on top, and when tapped, they should sound hollow. You can also use a toothpick to check—they should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Can I make these rolls without butter?

Yes, you can replace the butter with olive oil or another oil of your choice if you prefer a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Quick Dinner Rolls are an easy and delicious addition to any meal. With their soft, fluffy texture and golden color, they’ll be a hit with the whole family. This simple recipe yields perfect dinner rolls that require minimal time and effort, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them with a soup, stew, or roasted meat, these rolls will always be a crowd-pleaser!

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