Ah, the humble dinner roll—a small, fluffy delight that can steal the spotlight at any meal. There’s something about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house; it’s like a cozy hug for the senses. These rolls, let me tell you, are not just bread—they’re little pillows of joy, perfect for sopping up gravy or simply slathering with butter.
Last Thanksgiving, I made these for the first time and watched in awe as they disappeared faster than the turkey. My cousin, who usually avoids carbs like the plague, ate three in one sitting—said it was the best thing since sliced bread, literally. And no, I’m not exaggerating. The secret? Patience and a bit of love kneaded right in.
So, whether you’re planning a fancy dinner or just want to impress yourself on a random Tuesday evening, these rolls are your go-to. They’re like the underdogs of the dinner table—unassuming at first, but always delivering big on flavor and nostalgia. Ready to bake? Let’s get those hands messy!
Steps
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, yeast, sugar, salt, warm milk, butter, and an egg. Attach the dough hook and mix on low speed until everything is combined, scraping the sides as needed.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium and continue mixing for 2 minutes. Gradually add 1/2 cup of flour at a time, mixing until each addition is incorporated, until a dough ball forms.
- If needed, add more flour to achieve a slightly sticky, soft dough that pulls away from the bowl’s edges. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Once risen, gently punch down the dough to deflate it. Pinch off pieces to form 24 rolls, aiming for uniform size, and place them on a greased baking sheet or dish.
- Cover the rolls with a towel or plastic wrap and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes at room temperature. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Bake the rolls for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn golden brown. If they darken too much, cover with foil.
- Once baked, brush the hot rolls with melted butter. Serve immediately or store in a plastic bag for up to 3 days.
Ingredients
- 4 to 5 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of instant yeast (rapid rise)
- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 1/2 cups of milk, warmed to 110°F
- 5 tablespoons of softened butter
- 1 egg, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1776kcal | Carbohydrates: 408g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 96g | Saturated Fat: 48g | Cholesterol: 408mg | Sodium: 3264mg | Potassium: 888mg | Sugar: 72g | Vitamin A: 3360IU | Calcium: 480mg | Iron: 7.2mg
FAQ
- How long does it take to make these dinner rolls from start to finish?
- The entire process, including preparation and baking, takes about 90 minutes. This includes two 30-minute rising periods for the dough.
- What type of yeast should be used in this dinner roll recipe?
- Rapid rise or instant yeast is recommended for this recipe, allowing all ingredients to be mixed together easily, similar to using a bread machine.
- What is the ideal temperature for the milk to activate the yeast?
- The milk should be warmed to a temperature between 100-110°F. If it gets too hot, let it cool down to this range to avoid damaging the yeast.
- Can these dinner rolls be prepared in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. Before baking, take them out an hour in advance to reach room temperature, then bake as usual.
- How should leftover dinner rolls be stored?
- Leftover rolls should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. They can also be frozen for up to three months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or stored in a freezer-safe bag.
Tips
- Prepare Ingredients Ahead of Time: Before you begin, measure and prepare all the ingredients. This allows you to quickly and efficiently add them to the mixer without any delay.
- Temperature of Milk is Key: Ensure the milk is between 100-110°F to properly activate the yeast. Use a thermometer to check the temperature, and if it’s too warm, let it cool to the correct range.
- Uniform Roll Sizes: For even baking, make rolls of the same size. Shape the dough into an 8 x 12-inch rectangle, cut into 24 equal pieces, and weigh them if needed for consistency.
- Monitor Baking Color: Check the rolls at the 12-minute mark. If they are browning too quickly, cover them with foil to avoid over-browning, and ensure they reach a lovely golden hue.
Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Digital thermometer
- Kitchen scale (optional)
- Quarter sheet pan
- Glass measuring cup
