Homestyle Dinner Rolls are the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth to any meal. Their soft, buttery texture makes them a perfect side dish for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Let's dive into a recipe that will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread.
Warm whole milk is the backbone of a soft, tender roll, providing the necessary moisture and richness. Granulated sugar serves as food for the yeast, helping the dough rise beautifully. Active dry yeast is the magic ingredient that gives the rolls their fluffy texture by creating tiny air pockets during fermentation. Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor and ensures the dough is tender. Eggs contribute to the structure and color of the rolls, making them delightfully golden. All-purpose flour is the main structure builder, providing the necessary gluten for a well-formed roll. Lastly, a touch of salt enhances the overall flavor.
These rolls are perfect alongside a hearty soup or stew. Consider serving them with a garlic herb butter for an extra burst of flavor. They also make excellent sliders when filled with your favorite meats and cheeses.
Start by combining 1 cup of warm whole milk and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in a large bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved, sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the milk mixture. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.
Next, whisk in 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter and 2 large eggs until everything is well combined. Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing with a wooden spoon until a dough begins to form. The dough will start to pull away from the sides of the bowl and form a cohesive mass.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic consistency. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about an hour.
After the first rise, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again until doubled, which should take about 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Once out of the oven, brush them with 2 tablespoons of melted butter for that extra touch of flavor and shine. Serve warm and enjoy!