Welcome to the world of homemade bread with these Golden Dinner Rolls! Perfectly light and fluffy, they're a must-have on any dinner table. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned baker, these rolls will win over your heart and palate.
Flour: The backbone of our rolls, all-purpose flour keeps things simple and reliable, giving the rolls their structure and body.
Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness that also feeds the yeast, helping the dough to rise beautifully.
Active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes the rolls fluffy and airy.
Salt: Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
Milk: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough. Warmed to activate the yeast.
Water: Helps in hydrating the dough, creating the perfect consistency.
Unsalted butter: Provides a rich flavor and soft texture. Melted to blend easily into the dough.
Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough together.
These rolls pair beautifully with a hearty soup or stew. They're also fantastic served with a selection of cheeses and cured meats for a casual gathering. For a sweet twist, serve them with honey butter on the side.
Start by grabbing a large bowl—your mixing station for this simple yet rewarding task. Combine 1 cup of flour with the sugar, yeast, and salt. This initial mix ensures the dry ingredients are well whisked together and ready to welcome the wet ones.
Next, pour in the warm milk and water, followed by the melted butter and a whisked egg. Stir this mixture until it's smooth. You might notice a few lumps, but that's perfectly okay at this stage. They’ll disappear as you mix in the rest of the flour.
Gradually incorporate the remaining flour. You’re aiming for a soft, slightly sticky dough. Once it comes together, dust your work surface with flour and knead the dough for 6-8 minutes. This kneading action develops gluten, making your rolls soft and chewy.
Now, take your well-kneaded dough and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot. This is when the yeast works its magic, and your dough should double in size in about an hour.
Once risen, punch the dough down to release the air. Divide it into 15 equal pieces and shape each into a smooth ball. Arrange these dough balls in a greased baking pan, allowing a bit of space for them to rise again. Cover and let them puff up for another 30–45 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). When the rolls have risen nicely, bake them for 15-18 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. As soon as they come out, brush them with additional melted butter for that irresistible glossy finish.