Are you tired of store-bought dinner rolls that lack that homemade touch? Look no further! Our easy 5-step recipe for soft and fluffy homemade dinner rolls will transform your meals. Perfect for any occasion, especially Thanksgiving, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends.
Why Homemade Dinner Rolls Are Better
Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. Homemade dinner rolls are not only tastier but also healthier than their store-bought counterparts. You control the ingredients, ensuring no preservatives or additives sneak into your food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. You’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 1/2 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Instant yeast | 1 tablespoon |
| Almond milk (or any milk) | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 4 tablespoons |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Egg | 1 |
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Dinner Rolls
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the flour, salt, and instant yeast in a large bowl. This mixture forms the base of your rolls, ensuring they rise properly and have the right texture.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the warm almond milk, olive oil, honey, and egg. Make sure the milk is warm but not hot โ you should be able to comfortably dip your finger in it. This temperature is perfect for activating the yeast without killing it.
3. Combine and Let the Rest
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ones and mix until well combined. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the flour to absorb the liquid, making the dough easier to work with.
4. Knead the Dough
Now comes the fun part! Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes smooth and stretchy. This kneading process develops the gluten, giving your rolls their signature fluffy texture.
5. Rise, Shape, and Bake
Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl and let it rise for about 90 minutes or until it doubles in size. Then, divide it into 15 equal pieces, shape each into a ball, and let them rise again for 30 minutes. Finally, bake at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for 13-18 minutes until golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Dinner Rolls
Making homemade dinner rolls is easy, but a few tips can take them from good to great:
- Use warm milk to activate the yeast properly.
- Don’t skip the resting periods โ they’re crucial for texture.
- Knead the dough thoroughly for the fluffiest rolls.
- Brush the rolls with olive oil right after baking for a beautiful shine.
Serving Suggestions
Photo Credit: freepik
These soft dinner rolls are versatile and pair well with almost any meal. Serve them warm with a pat of butter for a classic touch. They’re perfect for mopping up gravy at Thanksgiving or enjoying alongside a hearty soup on a cold day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Our homemade soft dinner rolls recipe is foolproof and delivers consistent results. The rolls are light and fluffy and have just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, the satisfaction of making bread from scratch is unbeatable!
Conclusion
Making homemade dinner rolls doesn’t have to be intimidating. With this easy 5-step recipe, you’ll be baking soft, fluffy rolls like a pro in no time. Say goodbye to store-bought rolls and hello to the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread in your kitchen.
Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients and start baking! Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you. Don’t forget to share your baking success stories in the comments below โ we’d love to hear how your homemade dinner rolls turned out!
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can use any type of milk. Regular cow’s milk works great too.
How long do these dinner rolls stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature.
Can I freeze these dinner rolls?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
What if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can use active dry yeast. Just proof it in warm milk before adding to the dry ingredients.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I add herbs or cheese to these rolls?
Absolutely! Mix in herbs or grated cheese after the first rise for flavored rolls.
What’s the best way to reheat these rolls?
Wrap them in foil and heat in a 300ยฐF oven for about 10 minutes.
Photo Credit: freepik
