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The Ultimate Soft and Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls (Classic Buttery Recipe)

A close-up showing the fluffy interior of one of the soft dinner rolls pulled apart in a white baking dish.

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You can make incredibly soft, fluffy, and buttery dinner rolls from scratch. This easy recipe delivers warm, comforting bread perfect for any family meal or holiday gathering, tasting much better than store-bought options.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 teaspoon for yeast
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and the yeast. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This shows your yeast is active.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: Add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk until combined.
  3. Add flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should feel soft.
  5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is key for fluffy homemade bread.
  6. Shape the rolls: Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into 18 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
  7. Second rise: Arrange the dough balls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving a small space between each roll. Cover the pan loosely and let the rolls rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, or until puffy.
  8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
  9. Brush with butter: Immediately after removing the rolls from the oven, brush the tops generously with the remaining 1/2 cup of melted butter. Serve warm for the best soft dinner rolls experience.

Notes

  • For Texas Roadhouse Style Rolls Copycat: After brushing the hot rolls with melted butter, sprinkle lightly with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a sweet, buttery finish.
  • If you need quick dinner rolls, ensure your kitchen is warm for faster rising times.
  • You can make ahead dinner rolls by preparing them through step 6, chilling them overnight, and allowing them to warm up slightly before the second rise and baking.

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