Irresistible Soft Dinner Rolls

Irresistible Soft Dinner Rolls : Buttery, Fluffy, and So Easy to Make

There’s something deeply comforting about a warm, freshly baked dinner roll. Soft on the inside, golden and lightly crisp on the outside — these homemade dinner rolls are the perfect complement to any meal, whether you're hosting a holiday feast or just craving a cozy side for your favorite soup.

What sets this recipe apart? These rolls are pillowy, slightly sweet, and incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers. You only need a few simple pantry staples and some patience during the rising process. Trust us: it’s worth every minute.

 Why You’ll Love These Rolls

• Super soft and fluffy: Just the right balance of tenderness and structure
• Easy to prepare: Great for beginner or intermediate bakers
• Versatile: Pairs well with everything from holiday ham to hearty stews
• Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and reheat for future meals
• Better than store-bought: Because homemade always wins

 Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or wooden spoon
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional, but helpful)
• 9x13-inch baking pan
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
• Pastry brush

 Ingredients

Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1¼ cups warm milk (105–115°F / 40–46°C)
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon salt

For Brushing:

• 1 egg white + 2 tablespoons water (egg wash, for baking)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for after baking)

Instructions

1️⃣ Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, stir together the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy and foamy — this means your yeast is alive and ready.

2️⃣ Add Oil and Eggs

Whisk the vegetable oil and eggs into the foamy yeast mixture. This creates the moisture-rich base for your dough.

3️⃣ Add Flour and Salt

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

4️⃣ Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. (Use a stand mixer with dough hook if you prefer.)

5️⃣ First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

6️⃣ Shape the Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough. Transfer to a floured surface and divide into 12 to 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.

7️⃣ Second Rise

Place the dough balls into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy and nearly doubled.

8️⃣ Preheat & Egg Wash

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk egg white with water. Gently brush the tops of the rolls with egg wash to give them a beautiful golden finish.

9️⃣ Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and they sound hollow when tapped.

🔟 Final Butter Brush

Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter. This gives the rolls their iconic soft, shiny finish.

1️⃣1️⃣ Serve & Enjoy

Let cool slightly before serving. These rolls are perfect with butter, honey, or dunked into your favorite soup or stew.

 Pro Tips & Variations

• Use bread flour for even more structure and chew (if desired).
• Add herbs like rosemary or garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Sweet version: Add a bit more sugar and cinnamon, then top with glaze.
• Make ahead: Shape and refrigerate before second rise. Bake fresh the next day.

Whether you're serving these as a holiday side dish or just baking a batch to enjoy with tea, these soft homemade dinner rolls deliver bakery-level flavor and texture — right from your own oven. They're versatile, foolproof, and destined to become a family favorite.