Homemade Dinner Rolls | Perfectly Soft and Fluffy Rolls | Comforting Side Dish
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These homemade dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and golden brown, making them a perfect addition to any meal. With a tender, airy texture and a touch of buttery flavor, they’re irresistible right out of the oven. Whether you’re making them for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these rolls will bring warmth and comfort to your table.
Difficulty: Intermediate
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Rest Time: 1 hr 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cooking Temp: 190°C (375°F)
Estimated Cost: $6
Calories: 140 kcal per roll
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description:
Homemade dinner rolls are the ultimate side dish, offering a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs well with any meal. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these rolls come together with just a bit of kneading and time to rise, resulting in golden-brown rolls that are fluffy on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside. Brushed with melted butter for a rich finish, they are a versatile option that complements both savory and sweet dishes alike.

Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 40°C/110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg, then mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead for 5-7 minutes on medium speed.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12-15 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball, pinching the seams underneath, and place them in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped rolls with a damp cloth and let them rise again for 20-30 minutes, until they’ve doubled in size and are puffy.
- Bake the rolls: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Finish with butter: Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush with additional melted butter for a soft, shiny finish. Allow them to cool slightly before serving warm.
Nutrition Facts (approx. per roll)
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Calories from Fat: 40 kcal
- Total Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Potassium: 40mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 150 IU
- Calcium: 20 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Notes:
- Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
- Customization: For a twist, add herbs or grated cheese to the dough. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dough and allow it to rise overnight in the refrigerator. The next day, shape the rolls, let them come to room temperature, and rise before baking.