Perfectly Soft Sweet Dinner Rolls

Name: Perfectly Soft Sweet Dinner Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 130 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk (warmed to 43°C (110°F)); 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled); 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon salt; 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

130 min 12 rolls Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in these fluffy, golden sweet dinner rolls that are perfect for any meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

20 min

Total

130 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Sweet dinner rolls are a staple at any festive table, bringing a touch of buttery sweetness to your meal. These rolls are light, fluffy, and have just the right amount of sweetness to complement any savoury dish. Our version of sweet dinner rolls is foolproof, ensuring you get perfect results every time. This recipe is perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners. With straightforward steps and ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, you can easily whip up a batch of these delightful rolls. Whether it's for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these sweet dinner rolls will surely become a family favourite.

Instructions

Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the milk is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.

Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, combine remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.

Add flour

Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Pro tip: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

First rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Shape the rolls

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place in a greased 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.

Second rise

Cover the rolls and let them rise again until doubled, about 30 minutes.

Bake the rolls

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Pro tip: Tap the bottom of a roll; it should sound hollow when done.

Finish and serve

Brush the warm rolls with melted butter and serve.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use a kitchen scale for precise flour measurement.
Ensure yeast is fresh for proper rising.
Brush rolls with butter immediately after baking for extra softness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these rolls sweet?

The sweetness comes from the granulated sugar added to the dough, which balances the savoury elements.

How do I store sweet dinner rolls?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for up to a month.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise once, then shape and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature and rise before baking.

What temperature should the milk be for activating yeast?

The milk should be warmed to 43°C (110°F) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.

Why are my dinner rolls not rising?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and the milk is not too hot. Also, give the dough enough time to rise in a warm environment.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sweet dinner rolls warm, and consider pairing them with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra sweet touch. They are excellent alongside soups, stews, or as a complement to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. To make ahead, prepare the dough and let it rise once, then shape the rolls and chill them overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise again before baking. Store baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for up to a month.

Nutrition per serving

180

Calories

Protein

Fat

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