Name: Irresistible Quick and Fluffy Dinner Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp active dry yeast; 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp fine sea salt; Extra melted butter, for brushing

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Introduction

These irresistible dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden with a buttery finish. They are simple to make and a delightful addition to any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

The image shows a close-up of a baking tray filled with nine golden-brown dinner rolls placed side by side, each roll puffed and slightly shiny, with a soft texture visible. The top of each roll has a light crunch with small chunks of coarse salt scattered over them. The baking tray is partially covered with a white cloth, and there is a small white bowl nearby holding a slab of soft, yellow butter. The background features a white marbled surface, enhancing the warm and fresh look of the baked rolls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup water
2 tbsp butter, melted
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp active dry yeast
3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp fine sea salt
Extra melted butter, for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside. In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Add 1/2 cup milk and 2 tablespoons honey, stirring to blend. Microwave the mixture for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring each time, until the mixture reaches 110°F (warm but not hot). Alternatively, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
Step 2: Pour the warm liquid into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon active dry yeast evenly over the liquid. Stir quickly with a fork to combine and let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
Step 3: Add 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon fine sea salt to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook, mix on medium-low speed until mostly combined. If the dough sticks to the sides, add flour 1/4 cup at a time, up to 4 cups total, until the dough pulls away from the bowl and feels slightly sticky. Continue mixing on low speed for 4-5 minutes until smooth. Shape the dough into a ball and transfer it to a greased bowl.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with a damp towel or paper towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 15 minutes. This quick rise helps make the rolls light and fluffy.
Step 5: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide it into 15 equal pieces and shape each into a ball. Arrange the dough balls evenly in the prepared baking dish. Cover with a damp towel or paper towel and let rise another 15-20 minutes until slightly puffy.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Remove the towel and bake the rolls for about 15 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. For a shiny, soft top, tent foil over the rolls during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
Step 7: Place the baking dish on a wire rack and immediately brush the tops generously with extra melted butter. Serve warm and enjoy the soft, buttery flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a sweeter touch, brush the tops with honey butter instead of plain melted butter.
If you don’t have a stand mixer, mix and knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes.
Substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a tangier flavor and softer texture.
Adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or herbs to the dough can give the rolls a savory twist.

Storage

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, freeze rolls in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Reheat by warming in a preheated 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwaving for 15-20 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a baking tray filled with nine golden brown soft dinner rolls arranged in a 3x3 grid, each roll topped with coarse sea salt crystals and a shiny, buttery glaze. The rolls have a fluffy texture with slightly rounded tops and lightly browned patches showing uneven caramelization. The tray sits on a white cloth napkin over a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl containing thick yellow butter positioned at the lower left corner of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Mix it directly with the flour instead of activating it in the liquid. You may also reduce the rising time slightly.

Why are my dinner rolls dense instead of fluffy?

Dense rolls can result from not activating the yeast properly, using water that’s too hot or cold, or not allowing the dough to rise enough. Be sure to follow the temperature guidelines and rising times carefully for the best texture.