Irresistibly Soft and Buttery Homemade Dinner Rolls
There's nothing quite like the inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. These Irresistibly Soft and Buttery Homemade Dinner Rolls are the perfect blend of texture and flavor, with a delightfully tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Whether you're planning a cozy family dinner or hosting a special gathering, these rolls are bound to be the star of the meal.
This recipe provides a straightforward approach to achieving restaurant-quality dinner rolls in your own home. Key to this success is selecting the right ingredients and taking your time during certain steps. Be sure to use fresh active dry yeast for that perfect rise, and opt for all-purpose flour to maintain a delicate texture that's neither too heavy nor too airy.
Before getting started, we'll need to warm the milk and water—a gentle warmth helps activate the yeast without compromising its integrity. As each ingredient has its role, don't skimp on the butter; its richness is pivotal in creating that signature fluffiness and golden crust.
While working with the dough, remember the key is patience—allow the dough to rest after mixing and before baking, letting gluten relax for an optimal texture. Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook ensures a consistent knead, while a generous dusting of flour on the work surface prevents sticking when shaping the rolls. Following these steps will guarantee your dinner rolls turn out beautifully golden and irresistibly fluffy every single time.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of our dough, providing structure and chewiness.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to enhance flavor and support yeast activity.
- 4 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast: Ensures our rolls rise to the desired fluffiness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 ½ cups milk: Enriches the dough and keeps it moist.
- ¼ cup water: Complements the milk to activate the yeast without overheating.
- 5 tablespoons butter, divided: Adds richness and soft texture.
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil: Provides a subtle depth of flavor and maintains moisture.
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking when baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and kosher salt. Using the dough hook attachment, whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they're evenly dispersed.
Gently warm the milk and water until just lukewarm—it should feel comfortably warm to the touch. Add this to the dry ingredients along with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and coconut oil.
Mix on low speed for about 5 minutes, letting the dough come together smoothly. You’ll want a dough that’s soft but not sticky. If it feels too wet, add a touch more flour.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 10 even pieces—try using a kitchen scale for precise measurement if you aim for perfection! Roll each piece into a ball and let them rest for 10 minutes.
Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Roll out each dough ball into a 7-inch disc about 1 ¼-inch thick. Brush each with melted butter, fold in half, and then once more brush with butter to ensure a golden crust.
Prepare a baking sheet by coating it lightly with cooking spray. Arrange the folded dough discs, ensuring they have space to expand. Let them rest again for 10 minutes as you preheat your oven to 350°F.
Bake the rolls for 15–20 minutes until they turn lightly golden. If necessary, rotate the baking sheet halfway to ensure even baking.
Once out of the oven, brush with more butter for an irresistible sheen, and serve hot to your eager guests.
Tips for Troubleshooting If Something Goes Wrong With the Recipe
- Dough too sticky? Add a tablespoon of flour at a time, kneading until it feels right.
- Dough not rising? Ensure your yeast is fresh and milk is lukewarm, not hot.
- Rolls too dense? Double-check yeast quantity and proofing times.
- Too dry and crumbly? Brush with additional butter for moisture and flavor retention.
- Undercooked rolls? Check oven temperature with a thermometer for accuracy.
Ideas for Pairing With the Recipe
Whether you're planning a gourmet dinner or a casual get-together, these homemade rolls pair beautifully with a variety of flavors.
- Side dishes: A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the rolls and adds a crisp freshness.
- Drinks: A light white wine or a sparkling non-alcoholic cider enhances the rolls' buttery notes.
- Desserts: Complete the meal with a classic chocolate mousse to contrast the rolls' natural sweetness with rich, silky chocolate.
How To Store Properly
- For refrigeration: Store rolls in an airtight container or a zip-top bag, ensuring they maintain moisture. They stay fresh for about 3–4 days.
- For freezing: After cooling, wrap them in aluminum foil and place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, thaw at room temperature, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5–10 minutes.
- Making ahead: Prepare the dough a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake the next day for maximum convenience.
FAQs
- Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can substitute instant yeast, just use slightly less of it since it's more potent.
- What if I don't have a stand mixer? You can knead the dough by hand for around 10 minutes until it’s soft and elastic.
- Is it okay to use salted butter? You can use salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe slightly.
- Could I add herbs or cheese? Absolutely! Fold in some chopped fresh herbs or grated cheese before the final rise for additional flavor.
