Looking for the softest, fluffiest, most buttery dinner rolls that come out perfect every time? This foolproof recipe is beginner-friendly and uses simple pantry ingredients. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or hosting a holiday feast, these homemade dinner rolls will become your new favorite. Let’s bake!
🥖 Why This Is the Best Dinner Rolls Recipe
✔️ Light, Fluffy, and Full of Flavor
These dinner rolls are pillowy soft with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
✔️ Beginner-Friendly – No Fancy Tools Needed
You don’t need a stand mixer or bread machine to nail this recipe. Just your hands and a bowl!
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual weeknight dinner, these rolls always impress.
✔️ Made with Everyday Ingredients
No complicated ingredients — just flour, milk, sugar, yeast, eggs, and butter.
👩🍳 Ingredients & Tools You’ll Need
🛒 Simple Pantry Ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
🔄 Optional Substitutions:
- Use plant-based milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version
- Skip the egg and add 1 extra tablespoon of butter for an egg-free option
🧰 Basic Kitchen Tools:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk and spoon or silicone spatula
- Sheet pan or baking tray
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Pastry brush
💡 Can You Use a Mixer or Bread Machine?
Yes! A stand mixer with a dough hook makes kneading easier. A bread machine can handle mixing and kneading, but shape and bake manually for the best result.
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions (Foolproof Method)
Step 1 – Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This means the yeast is alive and ready.
Step 2 – Mix and Knead the Dough
Add melted butter, egg, salt, and flour (start with 3 cups, adding more as needed). Mix and knead by hand for 8–10 minutes until soft and smooth.
Step 3 – Let It Rise (First Proof)
Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 4 – Shape and Rise Again
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12–16 pieces. Roll into smooth balls and place on a greased tray. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Step 5 – Bake and Brush with Butter
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter while warm for that perfect glossy finish.
🧈 Expert Tips for Light & Fluffy Rolls
🌾 Choose the Right Flour
All-purpose flour gives the best balance of softness and structure.
⏲️ Don’t Over-Knead or Under-Proof
Too much kneading can toughen the dough. Too little proofing leads to dense rolls.
🧈 Brush with Butter After Baking
This keeps the tops soft and adds extra richness.
🌡️ Temperature is Everything
Use warm (not hot) milk and proof in a cozy spot — like an oven with the light on.
❄️ Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead Options
📦 Storing Leftovers
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
❄️ Freezing Instructions
Freeze shaped dough after the first rise or freeze fully baked rolls once cooled. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.
🔥 Reheating Tips
Reheat baked rolls in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes or microwave with a damp towel to keep moisture in.
🕒 Make Ahead (Overnight Option)
Let the shaped rolls rise overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temp for 30–45 minutes before baking the next day.
✅ Final Thoughts
These foolproof dinner rolls are soft, golden, and absolutely addictive. With simple steps and pantry staples, you’ll bake rolls that rival any bakery — perfect for holidays, weeknights, or anytime you want to impress. 🍞✨
You might also like:
Easy One-Pan Garlic Chicken with Roasted Veggies – the perfect main to serve with these rolls!