Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

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If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe that melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with that irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread, then you’re in for a treat. These rolls are the perfect balance of fluffy, tender crumb and rich butter flavor, making them an ideal companion to any meal or a wonderful snack all on their own. Freshly baked and warm from the oven, they bring a comforting, homemade goodness that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe keeps things delightfully simple, highlighting ingredients that work harmoniously to create those soft, fluffy, and flavorful rolls you’ll love. Each component plays its role, from tenderizing the dough to adding sweetness, richness, and perfect browning.

• Warm milk (1 cup): Warms the yeast and adds moisture for tender rolls.
• Sugar (1/4 cup): Feeds the yeast and lends a gentle sweetness to the dough.
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The magic behind the rise and airy texture.
• Melted unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and a soft crumb to the rolls.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances flavor and enhances the dough’s taste.
• Egg (1): Contributes to the structure and gives a lovely golden color.
• All-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups, plus extra for dusting): The foundation that forms the dough’s elasticity and shape.
• Unsalted butter for brushing (2 tablespoons, optional): Brushed on warm rolls for that irresistible buttery shine and flavor.

How to Make Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Begin by warming the milk to about 110 degrees Fahrenheit and dissolving the sugar into it. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it’s nice and frothy. This step awakens the yeast, ensuring your rolls will rise perfectly fluffy and light.

Step 2: Combine wet ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, salt, and egg. Pour in the bubbly yeast mixture and stir everything until it’s well combined. This creates the moist and flavorful base that the flour will soon transform into dough.

Step 3: Form the dough

Gradually add your flour, half a cup at a time, stirring as you go until the dough begins to pull away from the bowl’s sides. Then, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 to 7 minutes until the dough feels smooth and elastic—an indication that gluten has developed beautifully.

Step 4: First rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Find a warm spot and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until it has doubled in size. This rise is key to achieving the soft texture that makes this Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe so irresistible.

Step 5: Prep the oven

While your dough is rising, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Getting the oven ready in advance helps ensure your rolls bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 6: Shape the rolls

Punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide it into 12 equal-sized portions. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and arrange them snugly in a greased 9 by 13-inch baking dish. The closeness helps the rolls rise up nice and tall during baking.

Step 7: Final rise

Cover the shaped rolls with a cloth and let them rise again for 30 minutes, or until they have doubled in size. This final stage develops their soft texture and height, making each bite fluffy and satisfying.

Step 8: Bake to perfection

Pop the rolls into your preheated oven and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes. Watch for a beautiful golden-brown top that signals they’re ready to come out and be enjoyed.

Step 9: Optional buttery finish

For an extra touch of decadence, brush each warm roll with melted butter right after removing them from the oven. This step adds a shiny gloss and amplifies that buttery flavor that is synonymous with a truly exceptional roll.

Step 10: Cool slightly and enjoy

Let the rolls cool just a bit before digging in—warm rolls carry that perfect soft texture and melt-in-your-mouth feel. Serve fresh and watch them disappear fast!

How to Serve Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Although these rolls shine on their own, you can elevate them by sprinkling a little flaky sea salt or freshly chopped herbs like rosemary or parsley on top after the buttery brush. Another fun option is to serve with a spread of honey butter or your favorite jam for bursts of extra flavor.

Side Dishes

Soft, buttery rolls pair beautifully with hearty soups, savory stews, or a festive roast dinner. Their delicate crumb is perfect for soaking up gravies and sauces, making every bite more satisfying. Consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these rolls into sliders by slicing them horizontally and filling with grilled chicken, fresh greens, and your favorite condiments for an easy party snack. You can also shape the dough into knots or braids before baking for a charming, rustic look that’s equally delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (and sometimes it’s hard not to!), store them in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature. They will stay soft and fresh for about 2 to 3 days, making for a perfect quick snack or accompaniment later on.

Freezing

Want to keep your homemade rolls longer? Freeze them after baking and cooling. Wrap each roll individually or place them all together in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their delicious flavor and texture for up to 3 months, ready whenever you crave a soft and buttery homemade roll.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover rolls back to life, simply microwave them wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel for about 15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 10 minutes. Either method revives their softness and that fresh-baked warmth we all love.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast in this Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe. Use slightly less, about 2 teaspoons, and add it directly to the flour without proofing in milk first. Just remember to adjust the liquid slightly if needed.

What if I don’t have melted butter for the dough?

If melted butter is unavailable, you can substitute with an equal amount of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil. Butter, however, provides a richer flavor and softer texture that makes these rolls so special.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Gluten-free baking requires specific flours and binders, so this recipe would need significant adjustments. For best results, look for recipes specifically designed for gluten-free rolls to maintain that soft and buttery texture.

Why didn’t my rolls rise properly?

Common reasons include yeast that is too old or inactive, water that’s too hot and killed the yeast, or dough left in a cold place to rise. Make sure your yeast is fresh and proofed at the right temperature, and always let dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.

Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding finely chopped herbs like chives, thyme, or shredded cheese can add a wonderful twist to this Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe. Just fold them in after the initial mixing before kneading for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making your own bread from scratch, especially when it results in soft, buttery rolls that feel like a warm hug on a plate. This Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and guaranteed to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch, share them with loved ones, and watch how quickly they disappear at your table!

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