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Cozy Soft Buttery Dinner Rolls

soft buttery dinner rolls - featured image

Soft and pillowy dinner rolls with a buttery richness and subtle sweetness, perfect for any occasion and easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm whole milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted + extra for brushing
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk (110°F / 43°C) with sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
  2. Mix the dough: Add melted butter, eggs, salt, and 2 cups (250g) of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined, then gradually add the remaining 1 ½ cups (190g) flour, a little at a time, until dough pulls away from sides but is slightly sticky.
  3. Knead: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with dough hook on medium speed for 6-7 minutes. Dough should bounce back when poked.
  4. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the rolls: Punch down dough gently to release air. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 2 ounces / 57g each). Shape each into a smooth ball and place close but not touching on a greased baking pan.
  6. Second rise: Cover pan and let rolls rise again for 30-40 minutes until puffed and nearly doubled.
  7. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  8. Butter glaze: Remove rolls from oven and immediately brush generously with melted butter to lock in softness and add shine.
  9. Cool slightly: Let rolls cool on a rack for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure milk is about 110°F to activate yeast properly. Do not rush rising times for best flavor and texture. Weigh dough pieces for consistent roll size. The butter glaze after baking keeps crust soft and adds flavor. For dairy-free, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives. For gluten-free, use appropriate flour blends but expect texture differences.

Nutrition

Keywords: dinner rolls, soft rolls, buttery rolls, homemade bread, easy bread recipe, yeast rolls, comfort food