Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

If you have ever longed for that perfect bakery-style treat right from your own kitchen, this Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe is your new best friend. These rolls are everything you want in a bread: tender, unbelievably soft, and bursting with a rich buttery flavor that sticks with you long after the last crumb is gone. They are simple enough to whip up on a weekend morning or for your holiday feast, rising to fluffy perfection and glowing golden with a shiny, buttery finish. Trust me, once you make these, store-bought rolls will never quite compare again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These easy-to-find ingredients come together surprisingly simply, each playing a crucial role in creating that tender crumb, perfect rise, and golden finish that define this Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and that delightful chew.
• 2 teaspoons yeast: The magical agent that makes your rolls rise and become nice and fluffy.
• 3 tablespoons sugar: Feeding the yeast and adding a hint of sweetness that balances flavors.
• 1 1/4 cups warm milk: Adds moisture and richness, helping create that soft texture.
• 1/4 cup olive oil or avocado oil: Provides tenderness and a subtle depth of flavor.
• 2 eggs: Enrich the dough, improving texture and color for beautifully golden rolls.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor, balancing sweetness and deepening the overall taste.
• 1 egg white + 2 tablespoons water (for egg wash): Gives the rolls a glossy, attractive golden crust.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing after baking): Adds a luscious, buttery finish that melts in your mouth.

How to Make Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by combining your yeast and sugar in a bowl, then pour in the warm milk. This warm environment wakes up the yeast, and within five minutes, you’ll see it bubble and foam—that’s your sign that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Next, stir in the oil, salt, and eggs into your bubbly yeast mixture. These ingredients add richness and flavor, making your rolls not just soft but incredibly satisfying.

Step 3: Add Flour and Knead

Slowly incorporate the flour, one cup at a time, into the wet ingredients. Knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading step is key—it helps develop the gluten, giving your rolls that perfect chewy softness.

Step 4: First Rise

Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot. Let it rise until it doubles in size, roughly an hour. This rise ensures your rolls will be wonderfully fluffy with light, airy textures.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once risen, gently punch down the dough and divide it into 24 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball—this shaping helps the rolls expand upward as they bake.

Step 6: Second Rise in Pan

Arrange the dough balls in a greased baking pan, ensuring they’re turning slightly when placed so they can rise into each other while baking. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes for that irresistible fluffiness.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the rolls to golden perfection.

Step 8: Egg Wash for Shine

Brush the tops of the rolls with the egg white and water mixture. This wash creates a beautifully glossy surface once baked, making them look as fantastic as they taste.

Step 9: Baking Time

Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops turn that perfect golden brown shade, inviting you to pull them out and enjoy.

Step 10: Butter Finish

Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter. This final step makes them irresistibly rich and adds a delicate sheen that keeps them moist longer.

Step 11: Serve Warm

These rolls are best enjoyed warm—whether fresh out of the oven with butter melting on top, alongside a hearty bowl of soup, or paired with your morning coffee or tea. They are a true crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

While these rolls are delightful on their own, a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or a dusting of fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a sophisticated touch. A light brush of garlic butter also turns them into flavorful, savory bites perfect for dinner parties.

Side Dishes

This Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe shines next to everything from creamy chicken stew, hearty chili, or a fresh salad. They soak up sauces luxuriously, making any meal feel more complete and comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to jazz things up, try pulling the rolls apart in a basket lined with a warm cloth for a rustic feel. For special occasions, serve them with an array of flavored butters such as honey cinnamon or herb garlic, letting everyone customize their rolls. You can even slice and use them as sliders or mini sandwiches—pure delicious versatility!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature. They will keep soft and fresh for up to two days, perfect for quick snacks or sandwiches the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze these rolls either before baking or after. If freezing before, shape the dough and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. When ready, thaw and let rise before baking. For baked rolls, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months, ready to thaw and warm whenever you want.

Reheating

Reheat your rolls by wrapping them in foil and warming them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. To revive that fresh-baked softness, a quick brush of melted butter after reheating works wonders.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Whole wheat flour can be used, but it will make the rolls denser and less soft. If you want a healthier twist, try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balanced texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover rolls to keep them fresh?

The best method is to store rolls in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag at room temperature. Keeping air out prevents them from drying out so they remain soft for a couple of days.

Is it necessary to use oil in the dough?

Yes, the oil helps keep the rolls tender and moist. You can use olive oil, avocado oil, or any neutral oil without changing the flavor drastically.

Can I make these rolls without eggs?

Eggs add richness and color, but if you need an egg-free version, you can replace each egg with a flax egg or applesauce. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

Look for a golden brown top and a hollow sound when tapping the bottom. If you have a kitchen thermometer, rolls should reach an internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C).

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly rewarding about pulling warm, golden rolls fresh from your oven and sharing them with loved ones. This Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, impressing everyone with its tender crumb and rich flavor. Don’t hesitate to dive in and create these rolls—the smiles and compliments that follow will make it all worthwhile!

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