Classic Dinner Rolls

Nothing brings a meal together quite like warm, soft, and fluffy dinner rolls straight from the oven. Our classic dinner rolls recipe is perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or simply as a delightful side for weeknight meals. These rolls are lightly sweet, buttery, and airy, making them ideal for sopping up soups, gravies, or sauces. With just a few simple ingredients like flour, yeast, milk, and butter, even beginner bakers can create bakery-quality rolls at home. The dough is easy to knead and rise, and the golden-brown tops give a professional look without the fuss. Plus, this recipe is adaptable—add garlic, herbs, or cheese for an extra flavor twist!

Whether you’re preparing a Sunday roast, Thanksgiving dinner, or a cozy family meal, these dinner rolls will become a staple in your baking repertoire. They are soft, pillowy, and guaranteed to disappear as soon as they come out of the oven. This recipe also includes step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect rising, and ways to keep your rolls fresh for days.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons suga
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 large egg

Directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C) with 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Add the yeast mixture, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.
4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking tray, leaving a little space between each roll.
6. Second rise: Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.
7. Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake: Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and the tops sound hollow when tapped.
9. Cool and serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Brush with additional butter if desired.