Description
These easy homemade dinner rolls are flaky, soft, and buttery, making them a perfect addition to any meal. They feature a tender crumb and a golden crust, with a delicious buttery topping that enhances their flavor. With make-ahead options available, these rolls are an ideal choice for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where fresh, warm bread is appreciated.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1¼ cups milk, warmed
- 1 (¼-ounce) package active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled (375g), plus more for kneading
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
For the Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Proof the yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the warmed milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it proof for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy. If not foamy, discard and start again.
- Mix the dough: Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, and sea salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until combined. Gradually add the flour in three portions, mixing on low speed each time until mostly incorporated.
- Knead the dough: Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for 2 minutes until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough forms that pulls from the sides of the bowl.
- First rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead briefly to form a ball. Adjust flour if too sticky. Place dough in a large olive oil–brushed bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the rolls: Grease a baking sheet or 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Turn the dough onto a clean surface, divide into 15 equal pieces, and roll each into a ball using a cupped hand. Place balls spaced on the baking sheet, dust lightly with flour, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour until puffy.
- Preheat and bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F and position the rack low. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown, rotating halfway through baking for even color.
- Add topping and serve: Mix melted butter with a pinch of sea salt. Brush the warm rolls generously with this buttery topping and serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm (about 110°F) but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- If the dough is too sticky after kneading, gradually add small amounts of flour to make it easier to handle.
- For softer crust, cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel right after baking.
- These rolls can be made ahead and frozen after the first rise; thaw and let them proof before baking.
- Optional: Sprinkle a little additional sea salt on top after buttering for a savory touch.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
