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Fluffy Dinner Rolls

fluffy dinner rolls - featured image

These soft, pillowy dinner rolls are easy to make and deliver a warm, buttery flavor that makes any meal feel special. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or cozy weeknights, they come together in under two hours and are a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (420g)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (7g)
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed (240ml)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (60g)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (8g)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing tops, 28g)
  • Optional: flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Warm the milk in a small saucepan until just warm to the touch (about 100-110°F). Do not boil.
  2. In a stand mixer bowl (or large mixing bowl), combine flour, instant yeast, and sugar. Stir briefly.
  3. Add the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix on low speed for 1 minute until just combined (or use a sturdy spoon if mixing by hand).
  4. Knead the dough on medium speed for 5-6 minutes until smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, knead on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes. Dough should be soft and slightly tacky.
  5. Shape dough into a ball, place in a lightly greased bowl, and cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the risen dough gently, then turn onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 12-15 equal pieces (about 2 oz each). Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
  7. Arrange dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-40 minutes, until puffy and touching.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 20-22 minutes, until golden brown on top and cooked through.
  9. Remove from oven and immediately brush tops with melted butter. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
  10. Let rolls cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For gluten-free rolls, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, substitute almond milk and vegan margarine. For egg-free, use 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or applesauce. Add fresh herbs or shredded cheese for flavor variations. Rolls can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: dinner rolls, fluffy bread, soft rolls, easy bread recipe, homemade rolls, holiday bread, yeast rolls, comfort food