The aroma of freshly baked dinner rolls wafting through the kitchen makes any meal feel special. So, mastering making homemade dinner rolls is a necessary skill. In this article, I will instruct you how to make dinner rolls perfectly at home.
1. How To Make Dinner Rolls
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup warm water (around 110°F/43°C)
- ¾ cup warm milk (around 110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Instructions
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the warm milk, melted butter, activated yeast mixture, and egg. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the rolls dense.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
After the dough has risen, gently deflate it and divide it into equal-sized portions. You can aim for about 12-16 rolls, depending on the desired size. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between them for expansion.
Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they become visibly puffy.
Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown color and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter for a shiny finish and added flavor.
Let the rolls cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh and warm.
2. What To Serve With Dinner Rolls
A classic way to enjoy dinner rolls is to serve them with butter. Soften the butter and allow guests to spread it on warm rolls. You can also offer a variety of spreads like flavored butter, herb-infused butter, or jams and preserves.
Dinner rolls make a great accompaniment to soups and stews. Serve them alongside comforting classics like chicken noodle soup, tomato soup, chili, or beef stew. The soft texture of the rolls is perfect for dipping and sopping up the delicious broth.
Dinner rolls pair wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey, beef, or ham. They can be used to make mini sandwiches with leftover meats and condiments. Add some fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and your favorite spreads for a satisfying meal.
Fresh and crisp salads can be served with dinner rolls to create a balanced meal. They can add a delightful contrast in texture and act as a vessel for enjoying the salad. Consider serving them alongside green salads, Caesar salad, or chicken salad.
Dinner rolls complement the smoky flavors of barbecue and grilled meats. Serve them alongside burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, or barbecue ribs. They can be used as buns or simply enjoyed on the side.
Dinner rolls are a staple at holiday feasts. They pair well with dishes like roast turkey, roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, and gravy. They add a touch of warmth and comfort to the festive spread.
Create a delightful appetizer or snack platter with dinner rolls as a base. Serve them alongside an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, olives, and pickles. Let your guests assemble their own bite-sized treats.
Dinner rolls can be a lovely addition to brunch spreads. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, or smoked salmon. They can be sliced and used to make mini breakfast sandwiches or enjoyed with jams and spreads.
3. How To Store & Reheat Dinner Rolls
Storing Leftover Dinner Rolls
Let them cool: Allow the dinner rolls to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent excess moisture buildup and maintains their texture.
Wrap or bag: Wrap the dinner rolls tightly in plastic wrap or place them in airtight bags. This helps to retain moisture and prevents them from drying out.
Store at room temperature or freeze: If you plan to consume the leftover rolls within a day or two, you can store them at room temperature. However, if you want to keep them for longer, it’s best to freeze them.
Room temperature: Keep the wrapped rolls at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Dinner Rolls
Thawing (if frozen): If you froze the dinner rolls, thaw them by transferring them from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps prevent them from becoming soggy.
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or bag from the rolls and place them on a baking sheet. If the rolls have become slightly stale, you can lightly brush them with water or butter to add moisture. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for about 5-10 minutes until they are warmed through and regain their softness.
Microwave method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use a microwave to reheat the dinner rolls. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds at a time, checking after each interval until they are warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become rubbery.
With homemade dinner rolls recipe in this article, now you can create perfect dinner rolls and they will be the highlight of any meal. The soft, fluffy texture and inviting aroma of these rolls are sure to captivate the hearts and palates of those fortunate enough to enjoy them.