Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls are the perfect addition to any meal! These rolls are fluffy, tender, and have a slight sweetness, thanks to the buttery dough. They’re easy to make and absolutely irresistible. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 45°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired, and you’ll need to try again with fresh yeast.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Mix until the dough comes together, then knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, either by hand on a lightly floured surface or using the dough hook attachment on your stand mixer. The dough should be soft, smooth, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
- Grease a large bowl with a little oil or butter and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Rolls:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 even pieces.
- Roll each piece into a smooth ball and arrange the dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they are close together but not squished.
5. Second Rise:
- Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up and filled the baking dish.
6. Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Brush with Butter:
- As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush the tops with the melted butter to give them a soft, buttery finish.
8. Serve:
- Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving warm. They’re perfect on their own or with your favorite jam, honey, or even a drizzle of more melted butter!
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough the night before. After the first rise, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and continuing with the second rise and baking.
- Flavor Variations: Add garlic powder, herbs (like rosemary or thyme), or shredded cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
- Freezing: These rolls can be frozen! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. To reheat, bake from frozen in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
These Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls are perfect for any meal, from holiday dinners to casual weeknight meals. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness!