Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe

Soft Dinner Rolls Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Combine Ingredients: Once the yeast is activated, add it to the flour mixture along with the melted butter and egg. Mix until a dough begins to form.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1-2 hours.
6. Shape the Rolls: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or a round cake pan.
7. Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let them rise again until doubled in size, about 30-45 minutes.
8. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.
9. Bake: Brush the tops of the rolls with the tablespoon of milk. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Optional Topping: If desired, brush the hot rolls with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven for extra flavor and shine.
11. Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool in the pan for a few minutes before serving warm.

Importance of Each Ingredient

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and texture to the rolls. A higher protein content in flour helps develop gluten, which gives the rolls their soft chew.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast, promoting a good rise.
• Active Dry Yeast: The leavening agent that makes the rolls rise, creating a light and airy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls and helps control the fermentation process of the yeast.
• Warm Milk: Provides moisture and activates the yeast, enriching the dough with flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the rolls, contributing to a tender texture.
• Egg: Acts as a binder and adds moisture, richness, and a slight lift to the dough.
• Milk for Brushing: Gives the rolls a golden-brown crust as they bake.
• Optional Topping (Melted Butter): Adds flavor and a nice shine to the finished rolls.

Enjoy these soft dinner rolls as a perfect complement to your meals or as a delightful snack!