Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

There is nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of freshly baked bread, and this Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe delivers that with every soft, buttery bite. These rolls are a classic crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any time you want to elevate your meal. The recipe strikes the ideal balance between tender crumb and a golden crust, making each roll irresistibly fluffy and buttery. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these rolls will quickly become your go-to for effortless homemade bread that impresses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the flavor, texture, and color that make these rolls so special.

• 1/2 cup water: Lukewarm water activates the yeast to help the dough rise beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons active dry yeast: The powerhouse that creates the fluffy, airy texture.
• 2 teaspoons white sugar: Feeds the yeast, speeding up the rising process.
• 2 cups milk: Warm milk adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
• 1/3 cup white sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
• 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens gluten formation.
• 1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening (or real butter): Provides moisture and a delicious buttery note.
• 1 egg: Binds ingredients together and enriches the dough.
• 5-6 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the dough structure; adding gradually ensures perfect consistency.
• 4 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing): Brushed on after baking for that golden, shiny finish and extra flavor.

How to Make Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by warming 1/2 cup of water until it’s just lukewarm—not too hot to kill the yeast. Mix in the active dry yeast with 2 teaspoons of sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Watch carefully for bubbling; this signals the yeast is alive and ready to do its job.

Step 2: Warm the Milk

Warm 2 cups of milk gently in the microwave until it’s comfortably warm but not hot. Warm milk enriches the dough giving the rolls their tender crumb and a hint of sweetness that makes them so addictive.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients and Shortening

In a large bowl or your stand mixer, combine 1/3 cup sugar, kosher salt, butter-flavored shortening, and 2 cups of the flour. Stir these together to start building the dough base with a perfect balance of saltiness and slight sweetness.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the warm milk, yeast mixture, and the egg to the dry ingredients. Mix everything well and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the liquid—this makes kneading easier and the dough softer.

Step 5: Add Flour Gradually

Start adding more flour one cup at a time, mixing in between. Use between 4 to 6 cups — stop when the dough is soft, slightly sticky, yet pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Remember, less flour means more tender rolls.

Step 6: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough either with your hands or a dough hook for about 5 to 6 minutes. This develops gluten, giving the rolls structure while keeping them light and fluffy.

Step 7: First Rise

Grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning it over so the top is also greased. Cover loosely with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Patience here means fluffier rolls later!

Step 8: Shape the Rolls

After punching down the dough to release air, divide it into 24 equal pieces. Shape each into a smooth ball by pinching the ends underneath. The shaping ensures even baking and that beautiful rounded top.

Step 9: Second Rise

Place your rolls in two well-greased pans—a 9×13 inch pan and a 2-quart casserole dish work perfectly. Cover with tea towels and let them rise again in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, until doubled. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F.

Step 10: Bake and Butter

Bake the rolls at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and immediately brush generously with melted butter for that signature shiny crust and burst of buttery flavor.

Step 11: Enjoy While Warm

The best part! Serve these rolls hot and watch them disappear quickly. Their soft texture and buttery taste are unforgettable fresh out of the oven.

How to Serve Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

A quick brush of melted butter is a classic garnish that adds flavor and shine. For a twist, sprinkle garlic powder, fresh chopped herbs, or a pinch of coarse salt on top right after baking for extra character.

Side Dishes

These dinner rolls pair wonderfully with soups, stews, and hearty salads. Try them alongside a comforting bowl of chili or roasted chicken dinner to soak up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Shape your rolls into knots or braids before baking for a fun visual treat. You could also serve them alongside flavored butters—think honey cinnamon or herb and garlic—to impress guests with both taste and style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keeping them covered maintains their softness and prevents drying out.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap cooled rolls individually or in small batches in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 3 months, making them perfect for prepping in advance.

Reheating

To bring frozen or stored rolls back to life, warm them in a low oven (about 300°F) wrapped in foil for 10-15 minutes, or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds. Finish with a quick brush of melted butter for that fresh-baked touch.

FAQs

Can I use real butter instead of shortening?

Absolutely! Real butter adds rich flavor and a lovely aroma. Just keep the amount the same, and your rolls will taste even more buttery and indulgent.

Why do some rolls turn out tough?

This usually happens if too much flour is added or if the dough is over-kneaded. Aim for a soft, slightly sticky dough and knead just enough to develop gluten without making the dough stiff.

Can I make smaller or larger rolls?

Yes, feel free to adjust the size of the rolls. Just remember to adjust baking time accordingly—smaller rolls will bake faster, larger ones will need a few extra minutes.

What’s the best way to proof the dough?

A warm, draft-free spot is ideal. You can put the bowl in an oven with just the light on or near a radiator to maintain consistent warmth for rising.

Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough?

Definitely! Fresh herbs or shredded cheese can be gently folded into the dough before the first rise to create flavored rolls that add a scrumptious twist.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever bought rolls from the store. Their pillowy softness, buttery finish, and comforting aroma make them unforgettable. Baking them yourself is easier than you think, and the reward is more than worth the time. So grab your apron and get ready to fill your kitchen—and your heart—with the joy of homemade bread!

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