Introduction

Soft and buttery dinner rolls are a comforting addition to any meal. These rolls bake up fluffy and golden in just one hour, making them perfect for last-minute dinners or special occasions.

The image shows a clear baking dish filled with eight soft, golden-brown dinner rolls arranged in two rows of four. Each roll has a shiny, slightly sticky top, suggesting they have been brushed with butter or glaze, giving them a glossy look. The rolls are closely packed, with a smooth, fluffy texture on their sides and a slight rise forming rounded tops. The clear dish sits on a white marbled surface that softly contrasts with the warm colors of the rolls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup water
2 tablespoons melted butter
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
Extra melted butter, for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine water, melted butter, milk, and honey. Warm the mixture to about 110°F—warm to the touch but not hot. Use 15-second intervals in the microwave or heat gently over medium-low on the stove, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Pour the warm liquid mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle yeast evenly over the surface and stir lightly with a fork. Let the yeast activate for about 5 minutes, until foamy.
Step 4: Add 3 ½ cups of flour and the salt to the yeast mixture.
Step 5: Using the dough hook attachment, mix on medium-low speed until combined. If the dough sticks to the sides, add flour ¼ cup at a time, up to 4 cups total, until the dough pulls away from the bowl and feels slightly sticky. Continue mixing for 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth. Shape into a ball and transfer to a greased bowl.
Step 6: Cover the bowl with a damp towel or paper towel and let the dough rise for 15 minutes.
Step 7: Gently punch down the dough and divide it into 15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball. Place the dough balls evenly in the prepared baking dish. Cover again and let rise for another 15-20 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the cover and bake for 15 minutes, or until the rolls are lightly golden on top and fully cooked.
Step 9: Transfer the baking dish to a wire rack and brush the warm rolls with melted butter.
Step 10: Serve the rolls warm.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, substitute half the milk with buttermilk.
If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes.
Try adding herbs like rosemary or garlic powder to the dough for a savory twist.
Brush the rolls with honey butter instead of plain butter for a touch of sweetness.

Storage

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. Re-brush with melted butter before serving to refresh their softness.

How to Serve

The image shows a clear glass baking dish filled with nine golden brown dinner rolls arranged in three rows of three. Each roll is round with a smooth, shiny surface that looks soft and fluffy. The tops have a glossy finish, likely from butter brushed over them, creating a slightly sticky glaze with small droplets visible. The rolls are packed closely together, touching sides, and the dough looks tender and light-colored beneath the shiny crust. The dish rests on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright background to the warm tones of the bread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast straight from the packet?

Yes, active dry yeast from the packet works perfectly. Just ensure it is fresh and not expired for the best rise.

What if my dough is too sticky or too dry?

If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time while mixing. If it feels too dry, add a small amount of warm water or milk until the dough reaches a soft, slightly sticky consistency.