The Perfect Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
- 360g (3 cups) all-purpose flour
- 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 5g (1 tsp) salt
- 7g (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 180ml (3/4 cup) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 60ml (1/4 cup) warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 56g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
- 1 large egg
Introduction
Soft Dinner Rolls are the unsung heroes of the perfect meal, elevating even the simplest spread to gourmet heights. Imagine landing on these warm, fluffy clouds of bread, golden on the outside yet pillow-soft inside—such immense joy in every bite. Whether paired with hearty soups or as the perfect complement to a holiday roast, these dinner rolls bring warmth and comfort to any table. This guide will take you through the step-by-step process of crafting these delightful morsels of bread perfection.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook (optional)
- Baking Tray
- Kitchen Towel
- Basting Brush
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This activates the yeast, ensuring a perfect rise for your rolls.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead the dough with a dough hook on medium speed for about 7-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm environment for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
Once doubled in size, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them onto a greased baking tray, spaced slightly apart. Cover the tray with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
Step 4: Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter for a delightful sheen and flavor.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully crafted soft, fluffy, and irresistible dinner rolls. These rolls are not just a side dish; they are a statement of homemade warmth and hospitality. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or reheated, accompanied by sweet butter or savory dishes, their tenderness promises to be a hit. Don’t be surprised when these rolls become a family favorite, requested for every feast. Remember, the art of baking lies not in perfection but in the enjoyment of each knead and bake.
