Old Fashioned Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by preparing your yeast. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (it should feel like warm bath water, not too hot or cold) and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Add 1/4 cup of sugar to the mixture, stirring until the yeast dissolves. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the yeast to activate. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the flour mixture along with 1/4 cup of softened butter and 1 large egg. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon or a dough hook until a sticky dough forms.

If the dough is too wet, gradually add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Be careful not to add too much flour, as you want the dough to remain soft and slightly sticky.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Begin kneading the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, you can also knead the dough using that on medium speed for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for getting those light, fluffy rolls.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by folding the edges underneath and pinching the seams together. Place the dough balls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them so they’re just touching each other.

Step 6: Let the Rolls Rise Again

Cover the rolls with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up and filled the baking dish.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have finished their second rise, place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are golden brown.

Step 8: Brush with Butter

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush the tops with 2 tablespoons of melted butter for that irresistible glossy finish and added richness. Let the rolls cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls

• Don’t Rush the Rising Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key to getting soft, fluffy rolls. If you’re in a hurry, try placing the bowl in a warm, draft-free area or preheating your oven to 200°F, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter is essential for achieving the buttery flavor in these rolls. Ensure it’s not melted, but soft enough to mix easily into the dough.
• Adjust Flour as Needed: Flour can vary in absorbency, so don’t be afraid to add a little extra if your dough feels too sticky. Just make sure not to add too much, or the rolls may become dense.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their softness.

Creative Variations to Try

While the classic buttery rolls are fantastic on their own, there are many ways to get creative and customize your recipe:

• Herb-Infused Rolls: Add some finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or garlic to the dough for a fragrant, savory twist.
• Cheddar Rolls: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a cheesy, slightly spicy flavor.
• Sweet Rolls: For a sweeter version, add a bit more sugar to the dough and top the rolls with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Cinnamon Rolls: Roll the dough out into a rectangle, spread with butter, cinnamon, and sugar, then roll it up and slice into individual rolls for a sweet treat.

Conclusion

These old-fashioned soft and buttery yeast rolls are the perfect addition to any meal, whether you’re serving them with a holiday feast or enjoying them as a snack on their own. With their light texture, buttery flavor, and delightful softness, they’re sure to become a family favorite in no time. So, gather your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy the comforting warmth and delicious flavor of homemade rolls fresh from the oven. Happy baking!