Name: Amazing Dinner Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup Warm Water ((78ml) at 110 - 115 degrees); 2 1/4 tsp Active Dry Yeast; 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar ((68g)); 1 1/3 cups Whole Milk ((315ml) warmed to 110 - 115 degrees); 3/4 cup Salted Butter ((170g), softened and divided); 1 large Egg ((room temperature)); 1 1/2 tsp Salt; 4 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour ((22.5 oz), scoop and level to measure)

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Imagine a warm basket filled with fluffy, golden-brown dinner rolls, each one beckoning you to take just one more. These Amazing Dinner Rolls are the perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast. Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, they are sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your home. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create these delightful rolls that will elevate any table setting.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Amazing Dinner Rolls deserve a special place in your recipe collection because they are not just delicious; they are versatile. Perfect for soaking up gravy, slathering with butter, or enjoying alongside a hearty soup, these rolls are the ultimate comfort food. The smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, eagerly awaiting the first bite. Plus, making rolls from scratch is a rewarding experience that brings a sense of accomplishment, and they are surprisingly easy to prepare!

Ingredient Rundown

To create these Amazing Dinner Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Warm Water: 1/3 cup (78ml) at 110 – 115 degrees, to activate the yeast.
Active Dry Yeast: 2 1/4 tsp, the magic ingredient that makes your rolls rise.
Granulated Sugar: 1/3 cup + 1/4 tsp (68g), to sweeten the dough and feed the yeast.
Whole Milk: 1 1/3 cups (315ml), warmed to 110 – 115 degrees for a rich texture.
Salted Butter: 3/4 cup (170g), softened and divided, adding richness and flavor.
Large Egg: 1, at room temperature, to enrich the dough.
Salt: 1 1/2 tsp, to enhance the flavors.
All-Purpose Flour: 4 1/2 cups (22.5 oz), scoop and level to measure for the perfect texture.

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you start, gather the following tools:

Mixing Bowl: For combining your ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to perfect rolls.
Whisk: To mix the dry ingredients and activate the yeast.
Wooden Spoon or Dough Hook: For mixing the dough until it’s smooth.
Kitchen Towel: To cover the dough while it rises.
Baking Sheet: For placing the rolls to bake.
Oven: Preheated to create the perfect baking environment.

Cooking Amazing Dinner Rolls: The Process

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This ensures that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of the softened butter. Add the activated yeast mixture and the room temperature egg. Whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the salt and all-purpose flour to the wet mixture. Start with 4 cups of flour and mix until a soft dough begins to form. You may need to add the remaining flour, a little at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour as needed.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12-15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up beautifully.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 9: Bake the Rolls

Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 10: Brush with Butter

Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush the tops with the remaining softened butter. This adds a touch of richness and a beautiful sheen.

Better-for-You Options

If you’re looking to make these Amazing Dinner Rolls a bit healthier, consider the following alternatives:

Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted butter if you prefer to control the salt content.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
Non-Dairy Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While making Amazing Dinner Rolls is a fun experience, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Yeast Not Activating: Ensure your water is warm but not too hot (110-115°F). High temperatures can kill the yeast.
Dense Rolls: Avoid over-kneading the dough; this can lead to tough rolls. Knead just until smooth and elastic.
Insufficient Rising: Make sure the dough is covered to prevent it from drying out during the rising process.
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake. Remove them from the oven when they’re golden brown for the best texture.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To keep your Amazing Dinner Rolls fresh and delicious:

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls. Simply let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise. After kneading, place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and continuing with the second rise.

What should I do if my rolls don’t rise?

If your rolls don’t rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or a cold environment. Ensure the yeast is fresh and activate it properly, and find a warm spot for the dough to rise.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Bread flour will give your rolls a chewier texture and a slightly higher rise due to its increased protein content. Just remember that you might need to adjust the liquid slightly.

How can I tell when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls will be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C).

That’s a Wrap

There you have it! With these Amazing Dinner Rolls, you’re set to impress your family and friends. The process may seem a bit lengthy, but the end result is well worth the effort. Imagine pulling a tray of warm, fluffy rolls from the oven and watching everyone’s faces light up with joy. These rolls are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of comfort and home-cooked goodness. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make some Amazing Dinner Rolls that will be the talk of the table!