Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls

Nothing quite compares to the warm, buttery aroma of freshly baked dinner rolls wafting through your kitchen. These Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls are not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious, perfect for any family meal or festive gathering. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create soft, fluffy rolls that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get started on this delightful journey to homemade bread bliss!

The Upside of Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls

Homemade dinner rolls bring a special touch to any meal. They are soft, pillowy, and make the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, or a hearty main course. The best part? You can customize them to suit your taste. Whether you prefer them plain, brushed with garlic butter, or sprinkled with herbs, these rolls will elevate your dining experience. Plus, there’s something truly satisfying about baking your own bread and sharing it with loved ones.

Ingredient Checklist

• 6 cups all-purpose flour (1 lb, 9.5 oz or 723g)
• 2 tbsp instant or active dry yeast (24g)
• 2 tbsp sugar (25g)
• 1 tbsp kosher salt (18g) – if using table salt, reduce to 1 ½ tsp
• 2 cups very warm water (480 ml) – about 120 degrees F
• ½ cup melted butter, divided (120 ml)
• Non-stick cooking spray

Equipment & Tools

• Large mixing bowl – for combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key in baking.
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk – for mixing the dough.
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel – to cover the dough while it rises.
• Baking sheet – for baking the rolls.
• Oven – for baking to golden perfection.

Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Cooking Guide

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the very warm water (about 120 degrees F), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready to go!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. If you’re using table salt, remember to reduce the amount as noted in the ingredient checklist.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the yeast is activated, pour in the melted butter and gradually add the flour mixture. Using a wooden spoon or dough whisk, mix until a shaggy dough begins to form.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 12-16 equal pieces, depending on how large you want your rolls. Shape each piece into a ball and place them onto a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up nicely.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Step 9: Bake the Rolls

Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.

Step 10: Butter and Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and brush the tops with the remaining melted butter for an extra touch of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the smiles around the table!

Seasonal Spins

• Herb-Infused Rolls: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant twist.
• Garlic Butter Rolls: Mix minced garlic into the melted butter for a savory garlic flavor.
• Cheddar Rolls: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese into the dough for a cheesy delight.
• Cinnamon Sugar Rolls: For a sweet version, add cinnamon and sugar to the dough and brush with a cinnamon-sugar mix before baking.

Steer Clear of These

• Using cold water: Always ensure your water is warm enough to activate the yeast.
• Skipping the rise times: Rushing through the rising process can lead to dense rolls.
• Over-kneading: While kneading is essential, overdoing it can toughen the dough.
• Not greasing the baking sheet: This can lead to sticking and tearing when you remove the rolls.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in an airtight freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Handy Q&A

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. For the best results, use a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your water is warm (not hot) and check the expiration date on your yeast package.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and place it in the refrigerator overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I add fillings to the rolls?

Yes! You can fill the rolls with ingredients like cheese, herbs, or even sweet fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves before shaping them into balls.

See You at the Table

There’s nothing quite like the joy of homemade bread, especially when it comes to Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls. With their soft texture and delightful flavor, these rolls will become a staple at your dinner table. Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday feast or enjoying them with a simple weeknight meal, these rolls are sure to impress. Now, gather your ingredients and let’s roll into this delicious adventure! Happy baking!