These Honey Butter Dinner Rolls are a perfect blend of soft, fluffy goodness with a hint of sweetness from honey and a rich buttery finish. Perfect for any dinner table, these rolls are sure to impress your family and guests alike with their golden crust and irresistible aroma.
The main players in this recipe each contribute something special. All-purpose flour provides the structure of the rolls, creating that perfect balance of soft and chewy. Yeast is what makes the dough rise, giving the rolls their light and airy texture. The warm water activates the yeast, getting it ready to do its magic. Milk adds richness and a tender crumb, while unsalted butter brings a creamy, subtle flavor. The star ingredient, honey, adds a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the butter. Salt enhances all the flavors, and a large egg helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness.
These rolls are a versatile side that pairs well with a hearty beef stew or a creamy chicken soup. They're also fantastic served with a simple side of butter and jam for brunch.
Start by dissolving your yeast in the warm water. Make sure the water is around 110°F — not too hot, or you might kill the yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures your yeast is active.
Next, heat your milk in a saucepan until it's just warm. Add in the butter and honey, stirring until everything is smooth. This mixture will be the liquid base of your dough.
In a large bowl, combine the milk mixture with the yeast mixture. Add in the salt and egg, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the flour to form a soft dough. You want it to be a bit sticky but manageable.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. This part is a workout, but it's worth it for that smooth, elastic dough. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
After the first rise, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into 16 equal pieces and shape each into a roll. Place them in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again until doubled, about 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 15-18 minutes until they're golden brown on top. As soon as they come out of the oven, brush them with additional melted butter for that finishing touch. Serve them warm and enjoy!