Name: Dinner Rolls Recipe: Soft and Comforting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 158 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp active dry yeast; 1 cup whole milk (warmed); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 large egg; 1 tsp kosher salt; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted (for brushing)); Optional: Flaky sea salt (chopped parsley); Suggested Pairings: Butter (iced tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Dinner Rolls are a classic side dish, perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or comforting meals. These soft, fluffy rolls, featuring a tender crumb and a golden crust, deliver a warm, satisfying flavor with a light, buttery texture. Presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally brushed with melted butter or sprinkled with flaky sea salt, this Dinner Rolls recipe offers a golden, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple, homemade version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings cozy warmth to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Dinner Rolls:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp active dry yeast
1 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F/45°C)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 tsp kosher salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

For Serving:

Optional: Flaky sea salt, chopped parsley
Suggested Accompaniments: Butter, jam, roasted turkey, creamed corn
Suggested Pairings: Iced tea, hot cider
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Stand mixer with dough hook (optional), large mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, salt, melted butter (1/4 cup), and egg. Add yeast mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Taste and Adjust: Pinch off a small piece of dough, taste, and adjust with a pinch of salt if needed for balanced flavor.
First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Shape Rolls: Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 15–18 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter (2 tbsp) immediately after baking.
Serve: Arrange the Dinner Rolls on a white ceramic platter. Optionally sprinkle with flaky sea salt or chopped parsley. Serve warm with butter, jam, roasted turkey, creamed corn, iced tea, or hot cider.

Tips for Better Dinner Rolls

Ensure milk is warm (110°F) to activate yeast without killing it.
Taste the dough before shaping to ensure a balanced, slightly savory flavor; adjust cautiously.
Knead until smooth to achieve a fluffy texture.
Place rolls in a warm, draft-free area for rising to ensure proper dough expansion.
Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the golden rolls and garnishes.
Make ahead: Shape rolls and refrigerate overnight for the second rise; bake fresh.
Brush with butter right after baking for a glossy, flavorful crust.
Enhance aesthetic: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for texture or parsley for a fresh touch.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls: Use a gluten-free flour blend and add 1 tsp xanthan gum; ensure yeast is gluten-free certified.
Vegan Dinner Rolls: Replace milk with plant-based milk, butter with vegan margarine, and egg with 1/4 cup applesauce.
Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls: Substitute 2 cups of flour with whole wheat flour; add 1–2 tbsp more milk if the dough is too dry.
Garlic Dinner Rolls: Add 1 tsp garlic powder to the dough and brush with garlic-infused butter after baking.
Herbed Dinner Rolls: Mix 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the dough.
Sweet Dinner Rolls: Increase sugar to 1/3 cup and brush with honey butter after baking.
Cheesy Dinner Rolls: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar to the dough before kneading.
Pull-Apart Dinner Rolls: Place dough balls closer together in a greased 9×13-inch pan for a pull-apart effect.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat in a 325°F oven for 5 minutes to restore softness.
Freeze baked rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature and reheat in an oven.
Serve warm for the best fluffy, buttery texture.
Use as a side for savory mains or with spreads for a versatile addition.
Pair with iced tea or hot cider to complement the warm, buttery flavors.
Present on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for an appetizing, comforting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 12 servings (1 roll each, without garnishes):

Calories: 180 kcal
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin A: 4% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegan options reduce cholesterol to 0mg). Moderate in calories; enjoy with protein or vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Dinner Rolls recipe delivers a soft, comforting side dish perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a classic comfort food. Its straightforward preparation and golden presentation make it a favorite. The fluffy texture and buttery flavor delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing warmth.