Description
Homemade dinner rolls showcase warm, pillowy bread perfect for family gatherings. Salt, flour, and yeast combine to create irresistible comfort that brings people together at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup (177 ml) warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
- ¼ cup (59 ml) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 ¾ cups (469 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsps (1 packet) active dry yeast or instant yeast
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsps melted butter
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Yeast Activation: Whisk warm milk with sugar and yeast in a small bowl, allowing the mixture to foam and bubble for 5-10 minutes until frothy and aromatic.
- Dough Formation: Combine sifted flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Integrate activated yeast liquid, melted butter, and whisked egg, mixing until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough develops.
- Kneading Process: Manipulate the dough through intense kneading – either manually for 8-10 minutes or using a stand mixer’s dough hook for 5-6 minutes – until achieving a smooth, elastic consistency.
- First Proofing: Nestle the dough in a generously greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and place in a warm location. Allow the dough to expand and double in volume over 1-1½ hours.
- Shaping and Second Rise: Gently deflate the dough, divide into 12-15 uniform portions, and shape into smooth, taut balls. Position rolls in a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish with slight separation. Drape with a light cloth and permit a secondary rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy and slightly connected.
- Baking Preparation: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Delicately brush rolls with melted butter to ensure a golden exterior.
- Baking and Finishing: Bake for 18-20 minutes until rolls transform into a rich, amber hue. Immediately after removing from oven, apply an additional butter layer and optionally sprinkle with flaky salt.
- Serving: Present warm, celebrating their pillowy texture and irresistible aroma.
Notes
- Activate Yeast Precisely: Ensure milk temperature is between 100-110°F – too hot kills yeast, too cold prevents activation.
- Knead for Softness: Develop gluten by kneading until dough becomes smooth and elastic, creating tender, fluffy rolls with perfect texture.
- Proof in Warm Spot: Choose draft-free area around 80-85°F for optimal dough rising, like near a warm oven or sunny window to encourage gentle expansion.
- Butter Brush Technique: Apply melted butter before and after baking for rich golden crust and enhanced flavor – use soft brush for even, light coating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 13
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg