Perfect Soft & Fluffy Dinner Rolls: Step-by-Step Recipe for Home Cooks

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked dinner rolls wafting through the kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special occasion, these soft and fluffy rolls are always a hit.

In this easy, step-by-step recipe, I’ll guide you through the process of making perfect dinner rolls from scratch.

Ingredients for Soft and Fluffy Dinner Rolls:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp instant yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 ¼ cups milk (room temperature)
• 3 oz unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg
• 3 tbsp sugar
• Extra: 1 oz unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)
• Water (as needed)

How to Make Perfect Dinner Rolls: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In the bowl of your stand mixer, add the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. Give it a quick stir to mix everything together.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, milk, and sugar to the dry mixture. Start mixing on a low speed until a cohesive dough begins to form. Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl if needed.

Step 3: Mix in the Butter
Gradually add the melted butter while mixing on medium-low speed. Continue mixing until the butter is fully incorporated, and the dough becomes smooth.

Step 4: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough in your stand mixer for about 2 minutes, until it’s smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If you’re kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Proof the Dough
Once the dough is ready, transfer it to a lightly greased large mixing bowl, seam side down. Cover the bowl tightly and let it proof for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough to deflate it and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (about 2 oz each). To shape each roll, pinch the edges together at the bottom and gently roll it into a smooth ball.

Step 7: Second Proof
Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking pan, leaving about 1 inch between each roll. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise for another 1.5 to 2 hours, until they’ve doubled in size.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of each roll with melted butter and lightly mist with water. Bake the rolls for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Don’t forget to rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the rolls are golden and delicious, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving, or enjoy them warm!

Practical Tips:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, make sure your milk and egg are at room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can slow down the yeast’s activation, leading to a denser texture.
2. Check Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky while mixing, add a small amount of flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a little milk. The dough should be smooth and elastic, not too wet or dry.
3. Don’t Overmix: Once the dough is smooth, stop mixing. Overworking the dough can lead to tough rolls, so be sure to only knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Proper Proofing Temperature: Proof the dough in a warm, draft-free environment. If your kitchen is cool, try placing the bowl in an oven with the light on or on top of a warm stove.
5. Brush with Butter: For extra softness and flavor, brush the rolls with melted butter right after baking. This not only adds richness but also gives the rolls a beautiful golden finish.
6. Rotate the Pan While Baking: To ensure even baking, rotate the pan halfway through the baking time. This will prevent uneven browning and help the rolls cook uniformly.

Variations:

1. Herb and Garlic Rolls:
   Add garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme to the dough to infuse it with a savory flavor. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs on top before baking for an aromatic finish.
2. Cheddar Cheese Rolls:
   Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the dough for a cheesy twist. For an extra cheesy crust, sprinkle more cheese on top of the rolls before baking.
3. Whole Wheat Rolls:
   Replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to add more fiber and a nutty flavor to the rolls.
4. Sweet Rolls:
   Add a bit of sweetness by mixing cinnamon and sugar into the dough. For an extra treat, glaze the rolls with a cream cheese icing or a simple sugar glaze once they’re out of the oven.
5. Stuffed Rolls:
   Before shaping the rolls, flatten the dough and place a small dollop of your favorite filling in the center—think chocolate chips, jam, or even cooked spinach and cheese. Pinch the edges closed to create stuffed rolls.
6. Vegan Rolls:
   For a vegan version, swap the butter for olive oil or coconut oil, and use a plant-based milk like almond milk instead of dairy milk. You can also replace the egg with flaxseed meal or a store-bought egg replacer.

By experimenting with these tips and variations, you can create a variety of rolls to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. Whether you’re sticking to classic dinner rolls or adding a creative twist, these suggestions will help you bake rolls that are truly unforgettable!

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which might be unlikely because these rolls are so tasty!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the rolls in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, and they’ll be just as soft and fluffy as when they were first baked!

Meal Pairing Suggestions

These dinner rolls pair perfectly with just about anything! Try them with:

• Hearty soups like vegetable soup or lentil stew
• A warm salad made with roasted vegetables
• Stews and casseroles for a comforting meal

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and store it in the fridge overnight. The next day, shape and bake the rolls as directed.
• Why do I need to proof the dough?
  Proofing the dough allows the yeast to activate and helps the dough rise, giving your rolls their soft and airy texture.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to create perfect dinner rolls every time. They’re soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal or occasion. Whether you’re a home cook, a health-conscious individual, or someone just looking for a delicious homemade treat, these rolls will surely become a family favorite!

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