Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a bread recipe that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, then you absolutely must try this Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe. These rolls are the perfect blend of fluffy and rich, with a tender crumb and a golden, buttery crust that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re serving them for a special family dinner, a holiday feast, or just craving something homemade and comforting, these rolls will quickly become your go-to favorite. Their soft texture and buttery flavor make every bite irresistible, promising smiles around the table with every passing roll.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients—each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect soft texture and rich flavor. From the yeast that helps the dough rise beautifully, to the warm milk that tenderizes the crumb, every component is essential.

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the perfect foundation for soft, airy rolls; keep some extra handy for dusting dough.
• 2 teaspoons yeast: The driving force behind a light and fluffy texture through fermentation.
• 3 tablespoons sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the buttery flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups warm milk: Hydrates ingredients and adds tenderness to the dough; make sure it’s comfortably warm for yeast activation.
• 1/4 cup olive oil or avocado oil: Adds moisture and subtle richness without overpowering the rolls’ flavor.
• 2 eggs: Enrich the dough for extra softness and a golden color.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
• 1 egg white + 2 tablespoons water: Used as an egg wash to give your rolls an irresistible golden sheen.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Brushed on warm rolls to add that signature buttery finish and irresistible aroma.

How to Make Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by combining the yeast and sugar in a bowl—this little duo is the heart of your rising dough. Pour in the warm milk and give it a gentle stir. Then, let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes until it becomes bubbly and alive, signaling that your yeast is ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Once your yeast mixture is frothy and inviting, stir in the olive or avocado oil, salt, and eggs. These ingredients bring richness and flavor, setting up the dough for softness and a tender crumb.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Gradually add the flour one cup at a time, mixing as you go. When the dough starts to come together, turn it onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes. Your goal is a smooth and elastic dough that springs back gently when pressed.

Step 4: First Rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Find a warm spot in your kitchen and let the dough rise until it doubles in size—around 1 hour. This rising period gives the rolls their soft, airy texture.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once your dough has doubled, gently punch it down and divide it into 24 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball—this shaping step ensures rolls bake evenly and look picture-perfect.

Step 6: Second Rise

Arrange the dough balls in a greased baking pan, leaving a bit of space to let them puff up. Cover again and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes; this second rise creates that irresistible fluffiness.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Just before popping your rolls into the oven, brush the tops with the egg wash made from egg white and water. This step is the secret behind the rolls’ stunning golden-brown finish.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until the tops are beautifully golden and inviting. The smell filling your kitchen will tell you you’re almost there.

Step 9: Butter Finish

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with melted butter. This final touch locks in moisture and adds the classic buttery aroma that makes this Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe so unforgettable.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Serve these heavenly rolls warm, straight from the baking pan. They’re perfect on their own, or alongside your favorite soup or tea for a cozy treat.

How to Serve Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of freshly chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate these rolls from everyday to extraordinary. A swipe of honey butter adds a lovely sweet contrast to the buttery rolls.

Side Dishes

These rolls are incredibly versatile partners to many meals. They pair wonderfully with hearty stews, roasted meats, or creamy soups—think tomato bisque or chicken noodle. Their soft texture soaks up sauces beautifully without falling apart.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your rolls into mini sliders by slicing them in half and filling with pulled pork or a fresh garden salad. For a breakfast twist, serve them alongside fluffy scrambled eggs and bacon. Simple yet stunning, these rolls shine in both casual and festive setups.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with more rolls than you can eat in one sitting, store leftovers in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the rolls soft and moist without drying out.

Freezing

To keep these buttery delights fresh longer, freeze the rolls after the first rise or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully and can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating

When you’re ready for a fresh, warm roll, thaw frozen rolls at room temperature if frozen, then reheat in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. For an extra touch, brush with more melted butter before serving to bring back that fresh-baked softness and buttery glow.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Whole wheat flour can be used, but it will make the rolls denser and give them a nuttier flavor. Try substituting half the flour to keep the rolls soft and fluffy while adding some whole grain goodness.

What’s the best way to know if my yeast is still good?

Active yeast will bubble and foam when combined with warm milk and sugar, as described in Step 1. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be expired or the milk too hot/cold—discard and try with fresh yeast.

Can I make these rolls without eggs?

Eggs provide richness and help with texture, but you can omit them for an egg-free version. You might need to add a bit more milk or oil to compensate and be prepared for slightly less fluffiness.

Why do I brush my rolls with egg wash before baking?

The egg wash gives your rolls a lovely golden-brown color and a slight sheen, making them look as delicious as they taste. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in presentation.

Is it okay to use butter instead of oil in the dough?

Butter can be used instead of oil for an even richer flavor, but it can affect the dough’s texture. If substituting, use melted butter at room temperature and watch the dough’s consistency as you knead.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making your own rolls from scratch—especially when they turn out as incredibly soft and buttery as these. This Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls Recipe is simple enough for everyday baking but impressive enough to elevate your holiday table. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought rolls ever again. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every warm, buttery bite!

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