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
Scale
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
