How to Make Perfect Soft Fluffy Dinner Rolls

January 17, 2025

Get ready to bake the fluffiest, pillowy-soft dinner rolls ever! These rolls are like a warm hug for your taste buds, and I promise, they're easier to make than you think. Whether it's a holiday feast or Tuesday night dinner, this recipe will have everyone reaching for seconds! Let’s roll!

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Ah, dinner rolls. Just saying the words makes me feel all warm and cozy inside! Picture this: fresh from the oven, these soft, golden beauties are sitting on your table, still steaming, just begging to be slathered in butter. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple Tuesday night dinner, these rolls will steal the show. I swear they’re like little clouds of carb-filled happiness! And guess what? Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, these are totally doable. Let me take you on this bready adventure, I promise it’ll be a delightful (and delicious) journey.

How to Make Perfect Soft Fluffy Dinner Rolls Recipe

Now, let’s talk about what makes these dinner rolls so special. The secret? A combination of milk, butter, and a touch of sugar to create that irresistibly soft and slightly sweet flavor. And the yeast—oh, the magic of yeast! It’s what gives these rolls their airy, fluffy texture. But here’s the twist: I sprinkle a bit of flaky salt on top after baking to add a spark of flavor that’s both savory and sweet. It’s a nod to the balance of flavors you find in different baking cultures around the world. Think brioche, but easier and way more versatile. Whether you’re dunking these rolls into a hearty stew or enjoying them as is, you’ll love every bite!

For those of you worried about perfecting dinner rolls, take a deep breath—I’m here to help! First, don’t rush the rise time. The dough needs to hang out and puff up to get that signature fluffiness. And when it’s time to shape the rolls, go for smooth, taut tops by gently pulling the dough under and pinching it at the bottom. Also, don’t skimp on brushing them with butter before and after baking—it’s the key to that golden, glossy finish. Oh, and one last pro tip: use a kitchen scale if you can! Weighing the dough ensures your rolls are all the same size, which means they bake evenly. Trust me, it’s the kind of detail that makes a big difference.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s roll (pun absolutely intended)! These fluffy dinner rolls are the perfect sidekick for just about any meal. Serve them with soups, stews, roasted veggies, or even use them as mini sandwich buns for leftovers. Hungry for more variety? Add some garlic and herbs for a savory twist, or brush them with honey butter for a touch of sweetness. No matter how you spin it, these rolls will rise to the occasion (okay, I'll stop with the puns now). Get ready to turn your kitchen into the ultimate bakery and make your home smell like heaven. You’ve got this!

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Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•4 cups all-purpose flour
•1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
•1/4 cup granulated sugar
•1 teaspoon salt
•1 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F)
•1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
•1 large egg, room temperature
•Extra melted butter for brushing, as needed

Instructions

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
2
Add the warmed milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
3
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
4
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12-15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
6
Cover the rolls and let them rise for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until puffy.
7
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
8
Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
9
Remove the rolls from the oven and brush with melted butter while still warm.
10
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy soft, fluffy dinner rolls!

Nutrition Information

Calories

150 calories per roll

Protein

Carbs

24g

Fat

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

A: Yes, you can use active dry yeast, but it requires proofing before adding it to the dry ingredients. Dissolve the yeast in the warmed milk (110°F) along with a teaspoon of sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. Then proceed with the recipe as written.

Q: What can I substitute for whole milk?

A: You can use 2% milk, almond milk, or oat milk as substitutes, but keep in mind that whole milk provides richness and helps with the rolls' fluffy texture. If using a non-dairy milk, make sure it is unsweetened and warmed to about 110°F.

Q: Why didn’t my rolls rise properly?

A: There are several reasons this might happen. First, ensure your yeast is fresh and not expired. Also, make sure the milk is warmed to about 110°F; if it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast. Lastly, the dough needs a warm environment to rise—place it in a draft-free, warm area like an oven with the light on or near a warm window.

Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let the dough come to room temperature, shape the rolls, and allow them to rise again for 30-40 minutes before baking.

Q: How should I store leftover dinner rolls?

A: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.

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

A: Yes, but using 100% whole wheat flour may result in denser rolls. For best results, use a mixture of 50% whole wheat flour and 50% all-purpose flour to maintain a fluffy texture. You may also need to add a bit more liquid, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

Q: What are some variations or toppings I can try?

A: You can sprinkle the rolls with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning before baking for added texture and flavor. For a sweeter variation, brush the rolls with honey butter after baking. You can also mix in fresh herbs, shredded cheese, or garlic powder into the dough for savory rolls.

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