The BEST Dinner Rolls

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm basket of fresh dinner rolls. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a holiday feast, or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, they are the ultimate sidekick for soups, stews, and savory dishes. In this recipe for The BEST Dinner Rolls, I’ll guide you through the simple steps to create these delightful treats that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These dinner rolls are not just any rolls; they are pillowy soft and have a buttery flavor that melts in your mouth. Perfect for sopping up gravy or enjoying with a pat of butter, these rolls are versatile enough to complement any dish. With a hint of sweetness and a tender crumb, they are sure to become a staple at your dinner table. Plus, they come together quickly thanks to rapid-rise yeast, so you can whip them up even on busy weeknights!

Ingredient Breakdown

To make The BEST Dinner Rolls, you will need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully:

• 4-5 cups all-purpose flour: This will give our rolls structure and fluffiness.
• 2 tablespoons rapid rise, instant yeast: This helps our rolls rise quickly without the need for long proofing times.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: A bit of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
• 1 cup warm milk (110 degrees): Provides moisture and helps activate the yeast.
• 5 tablespoons butter, softened: Adds richness and a delicious buttery flavor.
• 1 egg, room temperature: Gives the rolls a lovely texture and color.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: For brushing on top of the rolls after baking for an irresistible finish.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start baking, gather the following items:

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy in baking.
• Whisk or electric mixer: To beat the dough until it’s smooth.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: Perfect for holding your rolls as they bake.
• Kitchen towel: To cover the rolls as they rise.

Cook The BEST Dinner Rolls Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of The BEST Dinner Rolls:

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of rapid rise yeast, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This helps ensure that the yeast is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk, 5 tablespoons of softened butter, and 1 egg. Whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until a soft dough begins to form. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Arrange the balls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a towel again and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching each other.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.

Step 9: Brush with Butter

Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush the tops with 2 tablespoons of melted butter for a beautiful shine and extra flavor.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you have dietary restrictions, here are some alternatives you can use:

• Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Milk: Use almond, coconut, or oat milk in place of regular milk.
• Vegan Butter: Replace the butter with a vegan alternative and use a flax egg instead of the egg.

If You’re Curious

Have you ever wondered how to make your dinner rolls even more flavorful? You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant twist. Or, try mixing in some shredded cheese for a savory touch. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, incorporating cinnamon and sugar can transform these rolls into a delightful dessert.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After shaping the rolls, cover them and place them in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to a month. Simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their soft texture.

Reader Q&A

Can I use active dry yeast instead of rapid rise yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast, but you’ll need to let the dough rise for a longer period of time, typically about 1-2 hours.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and that your milk is warm but not hot. If the yeast isn’t activated, it won’t rise properly. You can also try placing the dough in a warmer location.

Can I make these rolls smaller or larger?

Absolutely! Adjust the size of the dough balls according to your preference. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as smaller rolls will bake faster than larger ones.

How can I make these rolls more flavorful?

Consider adding herbs, spices, or even cheese to the dough before baking. You might also experiment with different flavored butters to brush on top after baking.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love these The BEST Dinner Rolls, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:

• Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Breast – A perfect main dish to serve alongside your rolls.
• Holiday Mashed Potato Casserole – Creamy and comforting, this dish pairs wonderfully with fresh rolls.
• Roasted Garlic Cheese Stuffed Bread – If you love flavorful bread, this one’s a must-try!

The Takeaway

Creating The BEST Dinner Rolls at home is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can have warm, fluffy rolls that will delight your family and friends. Whether served at a holiday gathering or alongside a weeknight dinner, these rolls are sure to impress. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor the delicious results!

Share on Pinterest