Soft and Fluffy Yeast Bread Rolls: A Step-by-Step Recipe
Are you craving warm, soft bread rolls? This recipe will guide you through making delicious, fluffy yeast bread rolls from scratch. Perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or simply enjoying with butter and soup, these rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's get baking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 12 rolls. Adjust quantities as needed.
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3-3 ½ cups (375-425g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- For Egg Wash (optional, but highly recommended):
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is alive and active! If it doesn't foam, your yeast might be old – start again with fresh yeast.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Add the softened butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it's too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
4. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):
- Lightly grease a large bowl with oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a smooth ball. You can use your hands or a bench scraper for this.
6. Second Rise (Proofing):
- Place the shaped rolls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them for rising. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
7. Egg Wash (Optional):
- While the rolls are proofing, whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash. This will give your rolls a beautiful golden brown color and a slightly glossy finish.
8. Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the risen rolls with the egg wash (if using).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
9. Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the rolls cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite spread!
Tips for Perfect Bread Rolls:
- Use fresh yeast: This ensures your rolls rise properly.
- Don't over-knead: Over-kneading can result in tough rolls.
- Let the dough rise sufficiently: Proper rising is key to soft and fluffy rolls.
- Use a baking sheet with parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Check for doneness: Use a food thermometer to ensure the rolls are fully baked.
These soft and fluffy yeast bread rolls are perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different fillings or seasonings to create your own unique variations. Happy baking!
