1. Easy Buttery Dinner Rolls Recipe 

How to Make Easy Buttery Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by activating the active dry yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, and stir to dissolve. Sprinkle the yeast over the surface of the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial to ensure the yeast is active and will help the rolls rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, followed by the melted butter and egg. Use a spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook to mix everything together until a dough forms.

Once the dough begins to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also continue mixing the dough in a stand mixer if you prefer. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but it should come together nicely without sticking to your hands.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Grease a large bowl with a little vegetable oil and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat it lightly in oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and arrange them closely together in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a round cake pan, depending on your preference. The rolls should touch each other slightly, which helps them bake together in a soft, pull-apart fashion.

Step 5: Let the Rolls Rise Again

Cover the rolls with a clean towel and allow them to rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching. This second rise ensures the rolls will be light and airy when baked.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, place the pan in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 7: Brush with Butter

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush the tops with a little more melted butter for an extra buttery finish. This step adds flavor and gives the rolls a beautiful shine.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. These buttery dinner rolls are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious the next day. Pair them with butter, jam, or your favorite savory spread. They’re perfect for sopping up gravy or dipping in soup!

Tips for Perfect Buttery Dinner Rolls

• Use Warm Milk: Make sure the milk is warm (not hot) to help activate the yeast. If the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, resulting in dense rolls.
• Knead Until Smooth: The dough should be soft and smooth after kneading. If it’s too sticky, you can add a bit more flour, but be careful not to add too much, or the rolls may turn out dense.
• Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Place: The best place for dough to rise is in a warm area, such as near a stove, in an oven with the light on, or in a microwave with a cup of warm water beside it.
• Don’t Skip the Second Rise: Giving the dough time to rise twice ensures the rolls will be light, fluffy, and airy.
• Brush with Butter Immediately: Brushing the rolls with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven gives them a shiny, buttery finish and enhances the flavor.

Variations to Try

• Garlic Buttery Rolls: Add a bit of garlic powder or minced garlic to the melted butter for a garlicky twist.
• Herbed Rolls: Mix in fresh chopped herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the dough for extra flavor.
• Cheesy Rolls: For cheesy dinner rolls, fold in shredded cheese such as cheddar or parmesan into the dough before shaping and baking.
• Sweet Dinner Rolls: For a sweeter version, you can add a touch of cinnamon or a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk to the top of the rolls after baking.

Why These Rolls Are So Great

These Easy Buttery Dinner Rolls are the ultimate side dish for any meal. They’re perfect for pairing with roasts, soups, salads, or even barbecues. The light and fluffy texture, combined with the rich buttery flavor, makes them a crowd favorite. Plus, they’re so simple to make that you can easily whip up a batch even on a busy weeknight.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just want something comforting to go with dinner, these buttery dinner rolls will elevate any meal and have your guests asking for seconds. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time, you can make a batch of rolls that will make you feel like a baking pro!

Conclusion

There’s no denying the joy of fresh, homemade dinner rolls. With this Easy Buttery Dinner Rolls Recipe, you can enjoy bakery-quality rolls at home without the hassle. Soft, fluffy, and golden brown, these rolls are the perfect complement to any meal and will quickly become a family favorite. Try them today and enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread in your kitchen!