Description
These Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls are perfectly fluffy, tender, and easy to make. With a rich buttery flavor and a golden brown crust, they are ideal for family dinners, holidays, or as a comforting snack. Made from simple ingredients and baked to perfection, these rolls offer a delightful homemade touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Mixture
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
Dough
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for brushing (optional)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, salt, and egg. Add the yeast mixture and stir until well combined, creating the base for the dough.
- Add Flour and Knead: Gradually add the flour a half cup at a time, mixing after each addition until the dough starts to pull away from the bowl’s sides. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size, allowing the dough to develop flavor and texture.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the rolls.
- Shape Rolls: Gently punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each into a smooth ball and place them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the dough balls with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, until doubled in size, ensuring soft and airy rolls.
- Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, until they turn golden brown on top, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Brush with Butter (Optional): For a glossy, rich finish, brush the hot rolls with melted butter right after baking while they are still warm.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving so they set perfectly. Enjoy them warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading the dough until elastic is crucial for a soft crumb texture.
- Letting the dough rise twice improves flavor and fluffiness.
- Brushing with butter is optional but gives a deliciously shiny and soft crust.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days.
- Reheat rolls briefly in the oven or microwave for a freshly baked taste.
