If you’ve ever wished for a simple bread recipe that brings that warm, fresh-from-the-oven feeling to your dinner table, you’re going to love this Easy Dinner Rolls Recipe. Soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden, these rolls are the kind of comfort food that’s both straightforward to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re new to baking or looking for a reliable crowd-pleaser, this recipe hits the mark with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Dinner Rolls Recipe lies in its simplicity, using common pantry staples that blend beautifully for a tender, airy texture and golden crust. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the warm water that activates the yeast to the bread flour that gives the rolls their perfect chew.
- Warm water (1 cup plus 2 Tbsp): Essential for proofing the yeast and hydrating the dough.
- Vegetable oil (⅓ cup): Keeps the rolls soft and tender with a subtle richness.
- Dry active yeast (2 Tbsp): The magic agent that makes the dough rise fluffy and light.
- Sugar (¼ cup): Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the dough.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors and controls yeast activity.
- Large egg (1): Adds richness and improves the roll’s structure and color.
- Bread flour (3½ cups): High protein content for that perfect chew and structure.
How to Make Easy Dinner Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Proof the Yeast
Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF to get it ready for baking. In the meantime, combine the warm water, vegetable oil, and dry active yeast in the bowl of your electric stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Let this mixture rest for about 15 minutes. You’ll notice the yeast starting to foam and bubble—that’s proof that it’s alive and ready to make these rolls rise beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Next, add sugar, salt, the large egg, and bread flour to your proofed yeast mixture. Mix everything on medium speed until the dough comes together into a soft, smooth ball. Using a stand mixer makes this step a breeze and ensures the dough is kneaded perfectly for the best texture.
Step 3: Shape and Rise
Turn your dough onto a floured surface if needed, and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball—the shaping is key for even baking and that classic dinner roll look. Place the rolls into a 9×13-inch baking dish that’s been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Cover the dish with a towel and let the dough rise for about 15 minutes until the rolls have doubled in size and look puffy and inviting.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Once the rolls have risen, pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. They should come out beautifully golden brown on top with a soft, fluffy interior that practically melts in your mouth. Let them cool just enough before serving—they’re best enjoyed warm!
How to Serve Easy Dinner Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
You can elevate these rolls by brushing them with melted butter right out of the oven; it adds a luscious shine and extra flavor. For an herby twist, sprinkle on some fresh chopped parsley, garlic powder, or a pinch of sea salt while the butter is still warm. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
Side Dishes
These rolls are truly versatile, pairing wonderfully with classic dishes like soups, stews, and roasted meats. Think juicy pot roast, creamy mashed potatoes, or a warm bowl of tomato basil soup—the rolls soak up sauces and make every bite more comforting and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re aiming to impress, serve these rolls as mini sandwich buns filled with pulled chicken or ham and cheese. They also make an excellent base for sliders at your next gathering. Arranged in a bread basket with colorful napkins, they become the star of any dinner table without stealing the spotlight from your main dishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftover rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This method preserves their soft texture but avoid the fridge, as it can dry them out quickly. If they start to feel a bit stale, a quick reheat can revive them nicely.
Freezing
If you want to make these rolls in advance, freeze them after the initial baking and cooling. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven.
Reheating
Reheat dinner rolls by wrapping them in foil and warming in a 350ºF oven for 10–15 minutes. This restores their soft texture and fresh-baked aroma. For a quick fix, microwaving for 10–15 seconds with a damp paper towel can also soften them up wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but breads made with bread flour have a chewier texture due to higher protein content. Your rolls will still be delicious but might be a little softer and less structured.
How important is proofing the yeast?
Proofing the yeast is crucial to know if the yeast is active and will help your rolls rise properly. If the yeast doesn’t foam or bubble during proofing, it’s best to start with fresh yeast to ensure successful rising.
Can I double this recipe for more rolls?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish or bake in batches. Just keep an eye on rising times and oven space to ensure even baking.
Why are my rolls dense instead of fluffy?
Dense rolls can result from under-kneading the dough, not letting it rise enough, or using water that’s too hot or cold. Make sure to knead until smooth and elastic, proof the yeast properly, and let the dough rise fully before baking.
Can I add herbs or cheese into the dough?
Definitely! Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or folding in shredded cheese can add fantastic flavor twists to these rolls. Just fold them gently into the dough during mixing for even distribution.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Dinner Rolls Recipe is a gem worth keeping in your baking repertoire—simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and reliably delicious results. Once you try these soft, golden rolls fresh from your oven, you’ll understand how something so effortless can elevate any meal with that special homemade touch. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try; your family and guests will thank you for these little bites of bread heaven.
Print
Easy Dinner Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Description
These easy dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any meal. Made with simple ingredients and a straightforward method, they come together quickly and bake to a golden brown perfection. Ideal as a side for soups, salads, or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup plus 2 Tbsp warm water
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
Dry Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp dry active yeast
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 3½ cups bread flour
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (204ºC) to ensure the rolls bake evenly once shaped.
- Proof Yeast: In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the warm water, vegetable oil, and active dry yeast. Let the yeast proof for 15 minutes until foamy, which activates the yeast and ensures a good rise.
- Mix Dough: Add the sugar, salt, egg, and bread flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on medium speed using the dough hook until a soft, smooth dough forms. This typically takes several minutes and develops the gluten for structure.
- Shape Dough: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Place the rolls evenly spaced in a 9×13-inch baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Let Dough Rise: Cover the baking dish with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 15 minutes. This second rise softens the texture and gives lightness to the rolls.
- Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Use bread flour for best texture; all-purpose flour can be substituted but may yield a slightly less chewy roll.
- You can brush the rolls with melted butter after baking for extra flavor and a soft crust.
- If time permits, a longer second rise (up to 30 minutes) will produce even fluffier rolls.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
