How to Make Perfectly Golden Dinner Rolls

Making perfectly golden dinner rolls requires a combination of the right ingredients, precise techniques, and a bit of patience. These soft, fluffy, and golden rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make them.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons active dry yeast

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)

• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing after baking)

• Egg wash: 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for glazing)

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water (110°F) and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top, stirring lightly to combine. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5–10 minutes. You’ll know the yeast is activated when it becomes frothy or bubbly on top, which indicates that the yeast is working. If the mixture doesn’t bubble, it may be a sign that the yeast is old or the water was too hot or too cold. In that case, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and honey (if using). Whisk in the eggs. The milk should be warm but not hot, ideally between 100°F and 110°F, as very hot milk can kill the yeast. Stir the yeast mixture into this bowl of wet ingredients once the yeast is activated.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the flour and salt to the wet mixture, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition. It’s important to measure your flour correctly, as too much flour can result in dense rolls. To properly measure flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. As the dough begins to come together, you might want to switch from a spoon to your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Once all the flour has been incorporated, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Begin kneading the dough for about 8–10 minutes. Kneading helps develop the gluten, which will give the dinner rolls their light and fluffy texture. The dough should be smooth and elastic, and it should not stick to your hands. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but be cautious not to add too much.

Alternatively, you can knead the dough using a stand mixer on medium speed with a dough hook for about 5–6 minutes. When the dough is ready, it should form a soft, slightly tacky ball that bounces back when you press it with your finger.

Step 5: First Rise

Lightly grease a large bowl with butter or oil and place the dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat it with fat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The rise time can vary depending on the temperature of the room, so be patient and give it the time it needs.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by folding the edges underneath and rolling them between your hands. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Arrange them closely together, as this will help them rise up and form soft, pillowy rolls.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size. This second rise ensures that the rolls will be soft and airy. During this time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 8: Egg Wash

Just before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with an egg wash. To make the egg wash, beat one egg with one tablespoon of water. This will give the rolls a glossy, golden finish once they are baked. Be gentle while brushing to avoid deflating the rolls.

Step 9: Bake

Place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. The rolls should be light golden in color and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 10: Brush with Butter

After the rolls are out of the oven, immediately brush the tops with melted butter for an extra touch of flavor and shine. This step will add richness and prevent the rolls from drying out as they cool.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for about 5–10 minutes before serving. These dinner rolls are best served warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. If you have leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave for a few seconds.

Tips for Perfectly Golden Dinner Rolls

1. Measure the ingredients accurately: The ratio of flour, yeast, and liquid is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Always use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially when it comes to flour.

2. Don’t skip the second rise: The second rise is crucial for light, airy rolls. It helps the dough develop flavor and texture.

3. Use warm but not hot liquids: Make sure the milk and water are warm (around 100°F to 110°F). Too hot and it will kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate the yeast properly.

4. Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls during baking. Overbaking can lead to dry, hard rolls. The rolls are done when they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

5. Customize your rolls: Add herbs, garlic, cheese, or other flavorings to the dough to customize the rolls to your taste.

6. Use room temperature butter and eggs: Cold ingredients can slow down the yeast’s activity. Let your butter and eggs come to room temperature before using them in the dough.

7. Store properly: To keep the rolls soft, store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for longer storage and reheat them when needed.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll have golden, soft, and flavorful dinner rolls that are sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these rolls will bring a comforting touch to your table.