🍞 Homemade Yeast Rolls (Soft & Fluffy Dinner Rolls)
These classic yeast rolls are buttery, light, and perfect for dinner, holidays, or sandwiches.
🛒 Ingredients (Makes about 12 rolls)
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- ¼ cup warm water
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
Optional topping:
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
🥣 Instructions
1️⃣ Activate the yeast
In a bowl combine:
- Warm water
- Yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2️⃣ Make the dough
In a large bowl mix:
- Flour
- Remaining sugar
- Salt
Add:
- Yeast mixture
- Warm milk
- Melted butter
- Egg
Mix until a soft dough forms.
3️⃣ Knead
Knead on a floured surface 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4️⃣ First rise
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
Cover and let rise 1–1½ hours until doubled in size.
5️⃣ Shape the rolls
Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
Place in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6️⃣ Second rise
Cover and let rise 30–40 minutes until puffy.
7️⃣ Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
8️⃣ Finish
Brush warm rolls with melted butter for a soft shiny top.
💡 Tips for Perfect Rolls
- Milk should be warm, not hot, or it can kill the yeast.
- If dough is sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Cover baked rolls with a towel to keep them extra soft.
- Add garlic butter or honey butter for extra flavor.
⭐ Quick serving ideas
- With soups or stews
- Mini sandwich sliders
- Breakfast rolls with eggs and sausage
If you’d like, I can also show you:
- Texas Roadhouse–style yeast rolls (super fluffy and sweet)
- 30-minute quick yeast rolls
- Old-fashioned Amish dinner rolls (very soft bakery style).