Name: Easy Dinner Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water (105 to 115 degrees F); 2 envelopes active dry yeast; 1/2 cup salted butter (melted); 1/2 cup granulated white sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon salt; 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; additional melted butter melted butter (for brushing on top, if desired)

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There’s something truly magical about freshly baked bread, especially when it comes to Easy Dinner Rolls. I remember the first time I made these rolls; the aroma wafting through the house was so inviting that my family couldn’t resist gathering in the kitchen. The soft, pillowy texture and buttery flavor are perfect for any meal. They make the ideal companion to soups, stews, and even as a snack on their own. It’s hard to beat the satisfaction of pulling a warm batch out of the oven and watching everyone enjoy them. Whenever I want to create a cozy atmosphere, I whip up these rolls, and they never fail to impress!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
4 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Oven, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why Try This Easy Dinner Rolls

Comforting and Satisfying

The joy of Easy Dinner Rolls comes from their comforting texture that melts in your mouth. They add warmth to your dinner table, whether served with a hearty stew or alongside a simple salad.

Versatility

These rolls are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them plain, with butter, or even filled with your favorite spreads. They can accompany a variety of dishes, making them suitable for any occasion.

Kid-Friendly Cooking

Baking these rolls is a family-friendly activity. Kids love getting their hands in the dough, shaping the rolls, and of course, devouring them after baking. It’s a great way to create lasting memories in the kitchen.

Make Ahead Option

One of the best parts about these rolls is that they can be prepared ahead of time. You can make the dough and refrigerate it for a few hours or even days, making it convenient for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Great for Special Occasions

Whether it’s a holiday dinner, family gathering, or just a Sunday meal, Easy Dinner Rolls elevate the dining experience. Their golden, soft appearance is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredient List for Easy Dinner Rolls

When it comes to the ingredients for Easy Dinner Rolls, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that delightful, fluffy texture. Let’s explore the essential ingredients that come together to create this comforting dish.

1 cup warm water (105 to 115 degrees F): This is crucial for activating the yeast, which helps the rolls rise.
Two 0.25-ounce envelopes active dry yeast: The star ingredient that makes the rolls fluffy and light.
1/2 cup salted butter (1 stick, melted): Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
1/2 cup granulated white sugar: Sweetens the rolls and helps with browning during baking.
3 large eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the dough.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.
4 to 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the rolls that gives them body and texture.
Additional melted butter (if desired): For brushing on top after baking for extra flavor.

Making This Easy Dinner Rolls

Creating Easy Dinner Rolls is a delightful process that fills your home with the aroma of freshly baked bread. Let’s dive into the steps to ensure your rolls come out soft and delicious.

In a large bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let the mixture stand for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. If there’s no foam, toss the yeast and start over, as it may not be active.
With a wooden spoon, stir in the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and salt. Mix well until everything is combined.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough becomes too stiff to stir with a spoon. At this point, you might not need all the flour, so keep an eye on the texture.
Once the dough is firm and no longer sticky, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Place the kneaded dough into a bowl that’s been sprayed with nonstick spray. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours, or up to 4 days. This chilling process improves flavor and texture.
When you’re ready to bake, grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and turn it out onto a floured board.
Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth round ball and arrange them in rows in the prepared pan (4 rows by 6 rows).
Cover the dough balls with a clean dish towel and let them rise until doubled in volume, which should take about 1 hour. If you have time, letting them rise longer will enhance the flavor.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. If they start to brown too quickly, tent them with foil.
Once done, brush the warm rolls with melted butter for added flavor. They are best enjoyed warm, so break them apart and serve!

Things Worth Knowing

Yeast Activation: Always ensure your water is at the right temperature when activating yeast—too hot can kill it, while too cold won’t activate it.
Kneading Technique: Kneading is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the rolls their structure. Don’t skip it!
Rising Time: Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size is essential for achieving light and fluffy rolls.
Cooling: Let the rolls cool slightly before breaking them apart to avoid them becoming gummy.

Helpful Notes about Easy Dinner Rolls

Here are some helpful notes to enhance your baking experience with Easy Dinner Rolls. These tips will ensure you achieve the best results every time.

Storage: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the rolls! Just make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them tightly and placing them in a freezer bag.
Pairing: These rolls pair beautifully with soups, stews, and salads, or can be enjoyed simply with butter.
Reheating: To reheat, wrap rolls in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Variations: Experiment with adding herbs or cheese into the dough for a unique twist!

Serving Ideas for Easy Dinner Rolls

When it comes to serving Easy Dinner Rolls, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Family Dinners: Serve these rolls with your favorite family dinner, whether it’s a hearty roast or a comforting stew.
Holiday Gatherings: They make a fantastic addition to any holiday table, adding warmth and comfort to the celebration.
Lunch Box Treat: Pack a few rolls in lunchboxes for a delightful addition to sandwiches or salads.
Snack Time: Enjoy them as a quick snack with a spread of butter or jam in the afternoon.
Picnics: These rolls are easy to transport and make a great addition to outdoor meals.

FAQ

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. Just note that you can add it directly to the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in water first. This can save you a few steps in the process, making your baking experience quicker. Just ensure to check the package instructions for any potential adjustments in quantities or methods.

The dough is ready when it has doubled in size. You can check this by gently pressing your finger into the dough; if it leaves an indentation that slowly springs back, it’s time to move on to the next step. The exact rising time can vary depending on ambient temperature, so keep an eye on it.

If your Easy Dinner Rolls turn out too dense, it might be due to over-kneading, using too much flour, or not allowing enough time for the dough to rise. Remember, kneading should only continue until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it feels heavy, you might have added too much flour. Always start with a lesser amount and add more gradually as needed; this will help ensure a light and fluffy result.

Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop even further. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before trying to shape and bake the rolls.

Conclusion

The charm of Easy Dinner Rolls lies in their ability to bring comfort and joy to any meal. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or served with your favorite dish, these rolls are a delightful addition to your table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for families, gatherings, or simply indulging yourself. You won’t regret it!