The Best Dinner Roll Recipe: Soft, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Delicious
Are you ready to take your dinner game to the next level? Forget store-bought rolls; these homemade dinner rolls are the secret weapon you need for unforgettable meals. This recipe delivers unbelievably soft, fluffy rolls with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have everyone asking for more. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Why This is the Best Dinner Roll Recipe
This recipe isn't just about creating delicious rolls; it's about mastering the art of baking. We've perfected the balance of ingredients and techniques to ensure your rolls are:
- Soft and Fluffy: The key is in the gentle kneading and the perfect rise time. We’ll guide you through each step to ensure maximum fluffiness.
- Perfectly Golden Brown: Achieve that irresistible crust without sacrificing the soft interior. We’ll show you how!
- Easy to Make: No special equipment or baking skills are required. Even beginner bakers can confidently tackle this recipe.
- Versatile: These rolls are perfect alongside any main course – from roast chicken to hearty stews.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Mixing and Kneading:
-
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
-
Adding Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
-
Kneading the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
First Rise:
- First Proof: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Second Rise:
-
Punch Down: Gently punch down the dough to release the air.
-
Shape the Rolls: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet.
-
Second Proof: Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Baking to Perfection:
-
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
-
Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite meal!
Tips for the Perfect Rolls:
- Use a Kitchen Scale: For consistent results, use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in tough rolls.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to check if the rolls are baked through.
Serving Suggestions:
These dinner rolls pair perfectly with:
- Roast Chicken: A classic combination.
- Thanksgiving Dinner: Elevate your holiday feast.
- Soup and Stew: The perfect accompaniment for a comforting meal.
- Sandwiches: Use them as delicious sandwich buns.
This best dinner roll recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to bake some magic! Let us know how your rolls turn out in the comments below!
