Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls

Why You’ll Love Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

Homemade dinner rolls are a comforting and delicious addition to any meal. This recipe makes soft, fluffy rolls that are perfect for serving alongside your favorite main dishes, soups, or stews. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have warm, melt-in-your-mouth rolls ready in under two hours. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these rolls are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 envelope active dried yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Melted butter (for brushing)

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

Directions

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, whisk the yeast into the warm water and set aside until bubbles appear on the surface. Meanwhile, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and sugar. Add the activated yeast mixture to the milk mixture and whisk until well combined.
2. Make Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Add the milk mixture and knead on medium-low speed for 5-6 minutes, until a smooth dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add an extra tablespoon of flour.
3. Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
4. Second Rise: Grease a 9×11-inch baking pan and place the dough balls in it. Cover and let the dough rise at room temperature for 20-30 minutes until puffed up.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Beat the egg and brush the top of the rolls with the egg wash. Bake the rolls for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and brush with additional melted butter if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 12 rolls, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to prepare, including rising and baking time.

Variations

• Garlic Butter Rolls: After brushing with melted butter, sprinkle minced garlic and a little parsley on top of the rolls for a garlicky twist.
• Cheese Rolls: Add shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) to the dough to make cheesy dinner rolls.
• Herb Rolls: Add a tablespoon of dried herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to the dough for a flavorful herb-infused roll.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover dinner rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and heat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size. You can gently press a finger into the dough, and if the indentation stays, it’s ready to be shaped and baked.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. There’s no need to activate it in water first. Just add it directly to the dry ingredients.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag, and bake them directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy them.

How do I get my rolls extra soft?

To ensure the softest rolls, avoid overworking the dough and make sure to knead it only until it becomes smooth. Additionally, brushing them with melted butter after baking keeps them soft and adds flavor.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer with dough hooks. Just be prepared to knead the dough by hand for a bit if the mixer can’t handle it.

Can I add whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version. However, the texture of the rolls may change slightly.

How can I tell when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top. You can also tap the bottom of one of the rolls—if it sounds hollow, it’s ready.

How should I store leftover rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them.

Can I make these rolls without eggs?

Yes, you can make egg-free dinner rolls by using a plant-based milk and substituting the egg wash with a little melted butter or a dairy-free egg wash alternative.

Conclusion

These easy homemade dinner rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. They are simple to make, require just a few ingredients, and result in soft, fluffy rolls that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to impress. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a little melted butter, and you have the perfect side dish!