Description
These Big Fluffy Yeast Rolls are soft, airy, and perfect for any meal. Made with warm milk, active dry yeast, and a touch of sugar and butter, these homemade dinner rolls bake to a golden perfection and are brushed with melted butter for added richness. Ideal for family dinners or holiday feasts, they can be made ahead and reheated without losing their fluffy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk these together until fully combined, forming a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Knead: Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or using a dough hook on a stand mixer. If the dough feels too sticky, add more flour one tablespoon at a time until a soft and slightly tacky dough forms. Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide the dough into 12–15 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake Rolls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top.
- Finish and Serve: While still warm, brush the rolls with melted butter to add flavor and sheen. Serve the rolls warm or at room temperature for best taste.
Notes
- These rolls can be made ahead and reheated conveniently.
- To freeze, bake the rolls fully, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheat frozen rolls in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
- For extra flavor, add honey or garlic to the melted butter before brushing it on the rolls.
