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Irresistible Dinner Rolls Recipe

4.5 from 111 reviews

These irresistible dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and lightly sweetened with honey, perfect for any meal. Made with simple ingredients and an easy method, they are brushed with extra melted butter for a golden, tender crust.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp active dry yeast
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt

For Brushing

  • Extra melted butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or butter and set aside to prevent sticking during baking.
  2. Warm Liquid Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1/2 cup milk, and 2 tablespoons honey. Heat the mixture gently until warm (around 110°F), stirring frequently to blend and avoid overheating. This can be done in the microwave in short increments or on the stovetop over low heat.
  3. Activate Yeast: Add 1 tablespoon active dry yeast to the warm liquid mixture, stirring gently to dissolve. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon fine sea salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour, stirring until a rough dough forms.
  5. Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding more flour if needed, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
  6. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  7. Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and arrange them evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish.
  8. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30-40 minutes, until they have doubled in size and are touching slightly.
  9. Bake Rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
  10. Brush with Butter and Serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush the tops with extra melted butter for a soft, flavorful crust. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

  • Ensure liquid mixture is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
  • Add flour gradually to avoid a dense dough; dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
  • You can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for an extra chewy texture.
  • For a richer flavor, use whole milk or add an egg to the dough.
  • These rolls freeze well; store cooled rolls in an airtight container and defrost before reheating.
  • Brush with garlic butter or sprinkle herbs on top for a savory twist.

Keywords: dinner rolls, soft rolls, homemade bread, easy bread recipe, honey dinner rolls