Soft and Fluffy Dinner Rolls

Soft and Fluffy Dinner Rolls : A Quick and Easy Recipe

These Simple Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and ready in just one hour! Perfect for a family meal or holiday gathering, these homemade rolls strike the ideal balance between lightness and chewiness. Plus, they’re easy to prepare with minimal kneading and rising time—perfect for busy nights. Whether you pair them with soup, salad, or a cozy dinner, these rolls will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Dinner Rolls

• Fast and Easy: Ready from start to finish in just one hour.
• Soft and Fluffy: No complicated kneading required, but the results are tender and chewy.
• Versatile: Serve them with healthy soups, salads, or lean protein meals for a complete, balanced dinner.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for quick access during busy days.

Ingredients for Fluffy Dinner Rolls

Dough:

• 3/4 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup water
• 4 tablespoons (56.7 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt (8.5 grams)
• 3 ¾ to 4 cups all-purpose flour (480 grams)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (or rapid-rise yeast)

Topping:

• Melted butter (for brushing on top after baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Baking Pan

• Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or grease with oil. Set aside.

2. Warm the Ingredients

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk, water, butter, sugar, and salt. Heat the mixture for 1 minute until the butter is almost melted. Stir until smooth.

3. Mix the Dough

• In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, add 3 ½ cups of flour and the yeast. Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients and mix on medium speed until combined.
• Gradually add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough is soft but slightly sticky.

4. Knead the Dough

• Switch to the dough hook and knead on medium speed for 6 to 8 minutes. If kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for the same amount of time until smooth and elastic.

5. Shape the Rolls

• Divide the dough into 15 equal pieces (using a kitchen scale helps for precision).
• Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in the prepared pan, evenly spaced.

6. Let the Dough Rise

• Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the rolls rise in a warm spot for about 20 minutes or until doubled in size.

7. Bake the Rolls

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the rolls for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.

8. Add the Final Touch

• As soon as you remove the rolls from the oven, brush them generously with melted butter.
• Let them cool slightly before serving warm.

Tips for Perfect Dinner Rolls

1. Use Warm Liquids: Make sure the milk and water are warm, not hot, to help activate the yeast properly.
2. Don’t Over-Knead: Kneading just enough will ensure your rolls stay soft and fluffy.
3. Monitor Rising Time: Warmer kitchens will help the dough rise faster, so keep an eye on it.
4. Freezing Tip: You can freeze the dough balls before the second rise or the fully baked rolls for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat in the oven for fresh rolls anytime.

Serving Suggestions

• Healthy Pairings: These rolls are the perfect side for vegetable soups, grilled chicken, or hearty salads.
• Breakfast Option: Spread with almond butter or avocado for a nutritious start to your day.
• Holiday Feasts: Serve them with turkey, cranberry sauce, and seasonal vegetables for a festive meal.

Health Benefits of Homemade Dinner Rolls

• No Preservatives: Made fresh with wholesome ingredients, without added chemicals or preservatives.
• Controlled Sugar Content: Adjust the sugar amount to make them healthier.
• Balanced Nutritional Value: Paired with healthy proteins and veggies, these rolls contribute to a well-rounded meal.

Nutrition Tips

• Dairy-Free Option: Swap the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.
• Whole Wheat Variation: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
• Low-Sodium Option: Reduce the salt to 1 teaspoon if you need a lower sodium version.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Place the cooled rolls in a zip-top freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Rewarm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave briefly before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes! Prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before baking.
2. What type of yeast should I use?
   Instant yeast or rapid-rise yeast works best for this quick recipe.
3. How do I make them vegan?
   Use plant-based milk and vegan butter to make these rolls completely vegan-friendly.
4. Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough?
   Absolutely! Add chopped rosemary, garlic, or shredded cheese for a flavorful twist.

These soft and fluffy dinner rolls are the perfect addition to any meal—quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. With minimal ingredients and a simple process, they deliver bakery-quality flavor right at home. Pair them with nutritious soups or hearty salads to create balanced meals that support your healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a casual weeknight meal, these rolls will never disappoint.

Try this recipe today and enjoy warm, buttery rolls with every bite—your family will thank you!