Name: Irresistible Dinner Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
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; Extra melted butter, for brushing

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Introduction

These irresistible dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal. Made with a touch of honey and brushed with melted butter, they offer a warm, comforting flavor that everyone will love. Follow these simple steps to create bakery-quality rolls right at home.

The image shows a close-up of a baking tray filled with nine golden-brown dinner rolls placed side by side, each roll puffed and slightly shiny, with a soft texture visible. The top of each roll has a light crunch with small chunks of coarse salt scattered over them. The baking tray is partially covered with a white cloth, and there is a small white bowl nearby holding a slab of soft, yellow butter. The background features a white marbled surface, enhancing the warm and fresh look of the baked rolls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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
Extra melted butter, for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside. In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1/2 cup milk, and 2 tablespoons honey. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring each time, until the mixture reaches 110°F (warm but not hot). Alternatively, heat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
Step 2: Pour the warm liquid mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon active dry yeast evenly over the liquid, stir quickly with a fork, and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 3: Add 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon fine sea salt to the yeast mixture. Use the dough hook on medium-low speed to mix until mostly combined. If sticky, add flour 1/4 cup at a time, up to 4 cups total, until dough pulls away from the bowl and is slightly sticky. Knead on low speed for 4-5 minutes until smooth. Shape into a ball and transfer to a greased bowl.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with a damp towel or paper towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 15 minutes for a light, fluffy texture.
Step 5: Punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide into 15 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Arrange evenly in the greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 15-20 minutes until slightly puffy. Keep the towel moist but not dripping for a soft crust.
Step 6: Preheat oven to 400°F. Remove the towel and bake rolls for about 15 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. Optionally, tent foil over rolls during the last few minutes to keep tops soft and prevent over-browning.
Step 7: Place baking dish on a wire rack and immediately brush rolls generously with extra melted butter. Serve warm for the best flavor and softness.

Tips & Variations

Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for chewier rolls.
Brush rolls with garlic butter after baking for a flavorful twist.
For a richer dough, substitute half the water with whole milk.
If you don’t have a stand mixer, knead the dough by hand for about 8-10 minutes.

Storage

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Reheat by wrapping in foil and warming in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwaving briefly covered with a damp paper towel.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a baking tray filled with nine golden brown soft dinner rolls arranged in a 3x3 grid, each roll topped with coarse sea salt crystals and a shiny, buttery glaze. The rolls have a fluffy texture with slightly rounded tops and lightly browned patches showing uneven caramelization. The tray sits on a white cloth napkin over a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl containing thick yellow butter positioned at the lower left corner of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

What if my yeast doesn’t foam during activation?

If your yeast doesn’t foam, the water may be too hot or too cold, or the yeast may be expired. Use water around 110°F and check the yeast for freshness before starting.