These soft dinner rolls are delightfully fluffy and tender, perfect for any meal. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Prep
30 min
Cook
20 min
Total
140 min
Servings
12
Difficulty
Medium
Ingredients
For the dough
For brushing
Instructions
Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Pro tip: If the mixture doesn't foam, the yeast may be inactive.
Make the dough
In a large bowl, mix together the yeast mixture, melted butter, salt, and egg. Gradually add flour, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Pro tip: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Knead the dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Pro tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
First rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Pro tip: For a warm environment, preheat your oven to 30°C (85°F) and turn it off before placing the bowl inside.
Shape the rolls
Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place in a greased 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking pan.
Pro tip: For even rolls, use a kitchen scale to weigh each piece.
Second rise
Cover the pan and let the rolls rise again until doubled, about 30 minutes.
Bake the rolls
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Pro tip: Tap the bottom of a roll; it should sound hollow when done.
Finish with butter
Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter.
Pro tip: This adds flavour and keeps the crust soft.
Tips & Tricks
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Use a thermometer to check water temperature for yeast activation.
- Brush with butter right after baking for a glossy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make soft dinner rolls?
Use a combination of milk, butter, and sugar for a tender crumb and ensure proper rising times for fluffiness.
What makes dinner rolls soft?
The use of milk, butter, and sugar contributes to the softness, along with proper kneading and rising.
Can I freeze dinner rolls?
Yes, you can freeze baked rolls. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store for up to 3 months.
How do I store leftover dinner rolls?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Why didn't my rolls rise?
Check the yeast for expiration, ensure the milk was warm, and allow enough time for rising in a warm environment.
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