Dinner Rolls (BEST Recipe!)

Learn how to make the BEST soft and fluffy dinner rolls with this easy recipe! Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any occasion, these homemade rolls are lightly sweetened with honey and topped with a golden honey butter glaze. With step-by-step instructions and tips for perfect rising and baking, these rolls are ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Whether served with soups, holiday meals, or as a snack, these buttery dinner rolls are guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (110-115°F, any fat content works)
• 2 ¼ tsp. active dry yeast (or 1 packet; instant yeast can be substituted)
• 2 tbsp. honey (or substitute with sugar)
• 2 tsp. cornstarch
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 large egg
• 4 tbsp. unsalted butter (room temperature, cut into 4 cubes)
• 3 ¼ cups (390 grams) all-purpose flour (or bread flour)

For the Butter Topping:

• 2 tbsp. salted butter (melted)
• 1 tbsp. honey

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

• In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk and yeast. Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey, cover with plastic wrap, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
• Add the remaining honey, cornstarch, salt, egg, butter, and 1/3 of the flour. Mix on low speed using the paddle attachment. Gradually add the remaining flour while mixing for about 30 seconds.

2. Knead the Dough

• Switch to the dough hook attachment and knead on medium-low speed for 2 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s workable but still sticky. Avoid adding more flour than necessary (typically 5-6 tablespoons).
• Lightly dust your hands with flour and knead the dough in the bowl for 3 minutes.

3. First Rise

• Transfer the dough to a large, lightly greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours (longer if it’s cool).

4. Shape the Rolls

• Punch down the dough to release air. Divide into 15 equal portions and shape each into a smooth, tight ball. Arrange in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

5. Second Rise

• Cover with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until doubled in size.

6. Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 18 minutes.
• Mix the melted butter and honey for the topping. Brush over the rolls and return them to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent over-browning.
• Let cool slightly, then serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy texture: Perfectly tender rolls with a light, airy crumb.
• Easy to make: Straightforward steps for beginner and experienced bakers alike.
• Versatile: Great for dinner, holiday spreads, or as a snack.

Tips

• Temperature matters: Ensure milk is warm (110-115°F) to activate the yeast properly.
• Avoid over-flouring: Keep the dough sticky but manageable to ensure soft rolls.
• Warm rise spot: Place dough in a slightly warm oven or near a heat source for quicker rising.

Variations and Substitutions

• Whole wheat rolls: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour.
• Herb-infused butter: Add minced garlic or fresh herbs to the melted butter topping for extra flavor.
• Sweet rolls: Increase honey and add cinnamon or raisins for a sweeter version.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes! After shaping, refrigerate overnight and allow them to come to room temperature before baking.

Q: Can I freeze the rolls?
A: Absolutely. Bake as directed, cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with soups, stews, or chili for a cozy meal.
• Use for sliders or mini sandwiches.
• Serve warm with butter, jam, or honey for a delightful snack.

Enjoy the perfect dinner rolls that are soft, golden, and deliciously irresistible!