Description
These Rosemary Honey Butter Dinner Rolls are golden, buttery, and slightly sweet with a hint of fresh rosemary. They have a pillowy-soft texture and a beautiful balance of flavors, making them the perfect accompaniment to holiday meals, Thanksgiving, or cozy family dinners. Brushed with warm honey butter after baking, these rolls are simply irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
1/4 cup honey
1 large egg
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
For the Honey Butter Topping:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Flaky sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk and honey, then sprinkle yeast over the top. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and chopped rosemary.
- Add the yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter, then mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead by hand for 8-10 minutes or with a stand mixer (using the dough hook) for 5-6 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Second Rise & Bake:
- Cover the rolls and let rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
6. Make & Brush with Honey Butter:
- Mix melted butter, honey, and rosemary in a small bowl.
- Brush the warm rolls with the honey butter. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve warm with extra butter or honey on the side!
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate after the first rise. Let come to room temperature before shaping.
- Freezing: Bake the rolls, let them cool, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat at 300°F for 10 minutes before serving.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a savory twist.