Soft And Buttery Homemade Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade rolls are truly the epitome of comfort food. The dough is soft and pillowy, while the butter adds a rich, indulgent flavor that makes them irresistible. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they also make your kitchen smell amazing as they bake. Best of all, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a perfect recipe for bakers of all levels.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• Extra butter for brushing

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

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the melted butter and eggs, followed by the yeast mixture. Stir everything together to form a dough.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and arrange them in a greased baking dish.

7. Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

8. Once risen, bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.

9. Remove the rolls from the oven and brush them with extra melted butter for a rich, glossy finish.

10. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 rolls

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Rising Time: 1 hour + 30 minutes

• Baking Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Garlic Butter Rolls: Brush the rolls with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley before baking.

• Cheese-Stuffed Rolls: Place a small cube of cheese inside each roll before shaping and baking for a cheesy surprise.

• Herb Rolls: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. It will not need to be proofed in warm milk, so you can add it directly to the dry ingredients.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning, just shape the rolls, let them rise for 30 minutes, and bake.

Can I make these rolls without butter?

For a dairy-free version, you can use olive oil or a non-dairy butter substitute. The flavor will differ slightly but will still be delicious.

What can I serve these rolls with?

These rolls are great with any meal, but they especially pair well with soups, stews, roasted meats, or salads. They’re also perfect for making mini sandwiches.

Why didn’t my rolls rise properly?

If your rolls didn’t rise, it could be because the yeast was expired, or the milk was too hot or too cold when activating the yeast. Always check the temperature of the milk and make sure it’s around 110°F (43°C).

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can use whole wheat flour, but the rolls may be denser. You might also need to add a little extra water or milk to compensate for the flour’s absorbency.

Can I use cold milk?

Warm milk helps activate the yeast, so it’s best to use milk that is slightly warm, around 110°F (43°C), to ensure optimal rising.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and make a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. You can also check the internal temperature; they should reach about 190°F (88°C).

Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can make the dough by hand, though it will take a bit longer to knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Conclusion

These Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls are the perfect addition to any meal, offering a soft, fluffy texture and rich flavor that will have everyone reaching for more. With easy-to-follow directions and simple ingredients, you can enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of freshly baked rolls in no time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner, these rolls are sure to impress.