Description
These fluffy and soft homemade rolls are light, buttery, and perfectly golden on top, making them perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or simply enjoying warm with a spread of butter. With a tender crumb and delicate crust, these rolls are a classic bread favorite.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
Finishing
- 1 tbsp melted butter, for brushing
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and softened butter to the yeast mixture, mixing thoroughly to combine all wet ingredients.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the flour and salt into the wet mixture, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, developing the gluten structure.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth, round ball.
- Second Rise: Arrange the dough balls in a greased baking dish, cover again, and let them rise for 30 minutes until puffed.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top.
- Brush and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter for a soft, flavorful crust. Serve the rolls warm.
Notes
- For extra soft texture, using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour is recommended.
- Brush the warm rolls with honey butter after baking to add a sweet, rich flavor.
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American