Soft & Fluffy Old-Fashioned Yeast Rolls
Classic Dinner Rolls Everyone Will Love
Soft & Fluffy Old-Fashioned Yeast Rolls are the ultimate side for any meal, from holiday feasts to simple weeknight dinners. These rolls are tender, buttery, and slightly sweet, with a pillowy texture that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for slathering with butter or using for sandwiches, these rolls bring the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread into your kitchen. With a little patience for rising times, anyone can master these classic rolls.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
- 1 large egg
- Optional: extra melted butter for brushing after baking
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Prepare dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape rolls: Punch down dough and divide into 12–16 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball and place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space to expand.
- Second rise: Cover rolls and let rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Brush rolls lightly with melted butter. Bake 15–20 minutes, until golden brown.
- Finish: Remove from oven and brush with additional butter for a shiny, soft finish. Cool slightly before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, pillowy texture: Perfectly tender rolls every time.
- Classic flavor: Slightly sweet, buttery, and versatile.
- Perfect for any occasion: Dinner, holidays, or snacks.
- Hands-on but simple: Minimal ingredients, just some kneading and patience.
Variations & Twists
- Garlic butter rolls: Add minced garlic to the melted butter for brushing.
- Herb rolls: Mix chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the dough or butter.
- Sweet rolls: Add cinnamon sugar inside for a quick cinnamon roll twist.
- Cheese rolls: Fold in shredded cheddar or parmesan before the second rise.
Soft & Fluffy Old-Fashioned Yeast Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix flour and salt in a large bowl. Add yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Mix until sticky dough forms.
- Knead dough 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
- Punch down dough, divide into 12–16 pieces. Shape into balls and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush rolls with melted butter. Bake 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Brush additional butter after baking. Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter or honey.
- Pair with soups, stews, or roasted meats.
- Slice and use for sandwiches or sliders.
Storage & Tips
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months; thaw and warm before serving.
- Tip: Use warm milk to help yeast activate properly.
- Tip: Avoid overbaking to maintain soft, fluffy rolls.
FAQ
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, reduce the rising time slightly and mix directly with the flour.
Q: Can I make these rolls whole wheat?
Yes, substitute up to half of the flour with whole wheat flour. Texture will be slightly denser.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure your rising space is large enough for the dough to expand.
