Description
These Big, Fluffy Yeast Rolls are soft, buttery, and perfect for any meal. Made with simple ingredients, they have a tender crumb and a golden-brown crust, achieved by baking after two rises. Brushed with melted butter at the end, these rolls are deliciously rich and perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
For Finishing
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until the dough forms a rough ball.
- Knead the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes on medium speed. Add flour if sticky, a tablespoon at a time, until manageable.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough to release air. Divide into 12-15 equal portions, shape into balls, and arrange on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spaced apart.
- Second Rise: Cover rolls loosely with a towel and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Brush with Butter: Immediately brush warm rolls with melted butter for a shiny, flavorful finish. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- For softer crust, cover rolls with a clean kitchen towel after baking.
- These rolls freeze well; cool completely then freeze in airtight bags.
- Reheat frozen rolls wrapped in foil at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- Optional: add herbs or garlic to the dough for flavored rolls.
