Momma’s Easy No-Yeast Dinner Rolls

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Momma’s Easy No-Yeast Dinner Rolls — Soft, Buttery, and Ready in Minutes

There’s something deeply comforting about pulling a pan of warm, golden rolls straight from the oven. They’re the kind of bread that brings everyone to the table — even before dinner is served. But on those days when you don’t have the time (or the energy!) to deal with yeast, proofing, and rise times, these no-yeast dinner rolls come to the rescue like a little kitchen miracle.

Soft, fluffy, buttery, and beautifully simple — these rolls taste like something your mom or grandma might’ve baked on a cozy Sunday afternoon. They’re the perfect last-minute addition to any meal, from weeknight soups to holiday feasts. And the best part? They come together in minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No yeast, no waiting, no stress — ready for the oven in minutes.
• Soft, fluffy texture thanks to cold butter and simple mixing.
• Perfect side for any meal — dinner, breakfast sandwiches, or snacking warm with jam.
• Foolproof and beginner-friendly, even if you’ve never baked bread before.
• Crowd-pleasing comfort food that feels warm and homemade every time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into small pieces
• ¾ cup milk (whole, 2%, or buttermilk)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Pastry blender or two knives
• Baking pan (9×13 or 9-inch round)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 baking pan or a round 9-inch cake pan.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

3. Cut in the Cold Butter

Add the diced cold butter to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter, two knives, or your fingertips to blend until it resembles coarse crumbs. Visible bits of butter = flaky rolls!

4. Add the Milk

Pour in the milk gradually while stirring with a fork. Mix gently until a soft, shaggy dough forms — do not overmix.

5. Knead & Shape

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead very lightly, just 6–8 turns, until it comes together. Divide into 12 equal portions and roll each into a ball.

6. Arrange & Bake

Place dough balls into your prepared pan so they are gently touching. Bake 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

7. Butter Finish

Brush the hot rolls with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven. Serve warm and enjoy the fluffy goodness.

Pro Tips for Perfect No-Yeast Rolls

• Cold butter matters — it creates tender, flaky layers.
• Don’t overwork the dough or the rolls will become dense.
• Use buttermilk for extra tenderness and a slightly tangy flavor.
• Bake touching rolls for soft edges — space them apart for crispier sides.
• Brush with garlic butter for a savory dinner version.

Variations & Substitutions

• Herb & Garlic Rolls: Add 1 teaspoon dried herbs + ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
• Cheesy Rolls: Fold in ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella.
• Sweet Breakfast Rolls: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon + ¼ cup raisins.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant milk and vegan butter.
• Honey Butter Glaze: Mix melted butter with honey and brush on top.

Serving, Pairing & Storage

Serving Ideas

• Great with soups, stews, chili, or pasta dishes.
• Slice them open for mini breakfast sandwiches.
• Serve warm with butter, jam, or honey.

Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.

Reheating

• Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 10 seconds.

Freezing

• Freeze baked rolls up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before serving.

FAQ

Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Simply double and bake in two pans.

Why did my rolls turn dense?
Likely from overworking the dough or warm butter melting too early.

Can I use self-rising flour?
You can — skip the baking powder and salt.

Can I prepare these ahead?
Make the dough balls, refrigerate for up to 4 hours, then bake fresh.