Why You’ll Love This Recipe These Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls are pure perfection. Here’s why they deserve a permanent place in your recipe collection:
Irresistible Texture: Light, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft.
Rich, Buttery Flavor: Butter is worked into the dough and brushed on top for the ultimate indulgence.
Versatile: Perfect as dinner rolls, sandwich buns, or breakfast treats with a dollop of jam.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake when ready—great for stress-free gatherings.
Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping shape these soft, squishy rolls.
Ingredients You’ll Need These delicious rolls require simple, wholesome ingredients:
For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
½ cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter (melted, plus extra for brushing)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins:
Garlic and Herb Butter: Stir minced garlic and fresh herbs into melted butter for brushing.
Cheese: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or cheddar on top before baking.
Seeds: Add sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions Ready to bake these soft, buttery rolls? Let’s go!
Activate the Yeast:
Combine warm milk and sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed for 5–7 minutes.
Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
Shape the Rolls:
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12–16 portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and arrange them in a greased baking pan, spaced slightly apart.
Second Rise:
Cover the rolls and let them rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
Brush with Butter:
Brush the warm rolls with melted butter for a soft, glossy finish.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam, and enjoy every soft, buttery bite!
Why This Recipe Works The magic of these rolls lies in their simple technique and quality ingredients. Yeast creates the perfect airiness, butter brings rich flavor, and proper kneading ensures a smooth, elastic dough. The double rise guarantees a light, fluffy texture—making these a crowd favorite.
Creative Variations Switch things up with these fun twists:
Garlic Herb Rolls: Brush with garlic, parsley, and Parmesan-infused butter.
Sweet Rolls: Add honey or maple syrup to the dough and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Cheesy Pull-Apart Rolls: Layer dough pieces with shredded cheese in a bundt pan.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend.
Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active.
Allow Proper Rising Time: This is key for light, airy rolls.
Storage: Keep cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Freeze Unbaked Rolls: Freeze shaped rolls and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Get Creative with Shapes: Try braids or knots for a decorative touch.
Serving Suggestions These rolls shine at any meal:
Holiday Feasts: A perfect companion to Thanksgiving or Christmas spreads.
Breakfast: Pair with butter and jam or turn them into breakfast sliders.
Sandwiches: Use as soft, flavorful sandwich buns.
Once you taste these Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls, they’re sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen!
