Name: Homemade Dinner Rolls
Prep time: 2 h 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 2 h 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed); 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup warm water (about 110°F)

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These homemade dinner rolls are pillowy-soft, buttery, and perfectly golden on top. Whether I’m serving them at a holiday meal or making a comforting weeknight dinner, they always bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. Fresh from the oven, these rolls are hard to resist and even harder to mess up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these rolls turn out soft and fluffy every time with just the right amount of chew. They have a slightly sweet, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with soups, roasts, or just a slather of jam. What makes them even better is how simple they are to make—especially with a stand mixer doing most of the kneading for me. They rise beautifully and bake to golden perfection, making any meal feel more special. Homemade Dinner Rolls

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Active dry yeast
Granulated sugar
Salt
Milk
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Warm water

Directions

I begin by activating the yeast. In a bowl, I combine warm water (about 110°F), a bit of sugar, and yeast, and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the milk (warmed), melted butter, sugar, salt, and eggs. I stir in the activated yeast mixture.
I gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
I knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes (or 5–6 minutes with a stand mixer and dough hook) until it’s smooth and elastic.
I transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Once risen, I punch down the dough and divide it into 12–16 equal portions. I shape them into balls and place them in a greased baking dish.
I cover and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
I bake the rolls at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
After baking, I brush the tops with melted butter for that soft, shiny finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 to 16 rolls, depending on how large I shape them. Prep time, including rising, is about 2.5 hours total, and baking takes around 15–18 minutes.

Variations

When I want a more rustic flavor, I substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. I sometimes add herbs like rosemary or garlic powder to the dough for a savory twist. For a sweeter version, I add a touch more sugar and brush the tops with honey butter after baking.

storage/reheating

Once cooled, I store the rolls in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to reheat, I wrap the rolls in foil and warm them in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or microwave them briefly to bring back their soft texture. Homemade Dinner Rolls

FAQs

Why didn’t my dough rise?

I always check that the yeast is fresh and the water isn’t too hot (anything over 115°F can kill it).

Can I use instant yeast instead?

Yes, I can substitute active dry yeast with instant yeast using the same amount. I just skip the proofing step and mix it directly into the dry ingredients.

How do I make the rolls extra soft?

Brushing the rolls with butter right after baking helps keep them soft. Also, not overbaking them is key—they should just be lightly golden on top.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make the dough the night before, let it rise, shape the rolls, and refrigerate them. The next day, I let them come to room temperature and rise again before baking.

What’s the best way to shape the rolls?

I divide the dough evenly, roll each piece into a ball by tucking the edges under, and pinch the bottom to seal. This gives me smooth, round tops after baking.

Conclusion

These homemade dinner rolls are everything I look for in a bread recipe: soft, buttery, and incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s for a holiday table or a cozy family dinner, I know these rolls will be a hit. With a little patience and a few basic ingredients, I can whip up a batch that rivals any bakery.