Homemade Fluffy Dinner Rolls Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to make bakery-quality bread right in your own kitchen, you’re in for a treat. This Homemade Fluffy Dinner Rolls Recipe is seriously one of my all-time favorites—soft, buttery, and just the right amount of fluffiness that will have everyone begging for seconds. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to make something so light and pillowy without any fancy equipment. Stick around and I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get these rolls perfect every time.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create magic. Each one plays an important role in achieving the fluff and flavor you’ll love. I always recommend using fresh yeast and whole milk for best results, and feel free to use unsalted butter to control the salt level.

• Unsalted butter: I like to slice it thin so it melts quickly in the mixer, giving the dough richness and softness.
• Granulated sugar: It feeds the yeast and adds just the right hint of sweetness.
• Kosher salt: Essential for balancing the flavors and enhancing the dough’s structure.
• Whole milk: Warmed gently to activate the yeast and make the dough tender.
• Active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes these rolls rise perfectly fluffy.
• Large egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure; you might need a bit more or less depending on your kitchen’s humidity.
• Vegetable oil: A little helps keep the dough from sticking during its first rise.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Homemade Fluffy Dinner Rolls Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Over the years, I’ve tried a few tweaks to suit different tastes or occasions, and you can absolutely play around with it too.

• Herbed rolls: Adding fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough gives a fragrant twist—my family goes crazy for rosemary rolls with dinner!
• Garlic butter topping: Mix a bit of garlic powder with the melted butter you brush on top for a delicious garlic bread effect.
• Whole wheat upgrade: Swap out half the flour for whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and more fiber—just keep an eye on the dough’s moisture.
• Dairy-free: Use a plant-based milk and dairy-free butter substitutes, and your rolls will still turn out soft and tasty.

How to Make Homemade Fluffy Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Getting the Butter and Milk Ready

Start by slicing the butter as thinly as you can and placing it at the bottom of your stand mixer. Add the sugar and salt right on top. Now, gently warm your milk in short bursts in the microwave until it’s about 105-110°F—warm to the touch but not hot. Pour 1 cup of that warm milk over the butter in the mixer and just let it sit. Meanwhile, stir the yeast into the remaining 1/4 cup of milk to proof it; it should get foamy after about 5 minutes. Trust me, this step helps ensure your rolls rise beautifully every time.

Step 2: Mixing and Kneading the Dough

Add the yeast mixture and the beaten egg to the mixer, then stir everything together gently. Using your stand mixer’s hook attachment, start adding flour one cup at a time, pausing to scrape down the sides so nothing gets missed. When the dough comes together in a shaggy ball, switch the mixer to medium-high speed and knead it for about 3 minutes. If the dough sticks to the sides, add flour a tablespoon at a time, but be careful—not too much or your rolls’ll get dense. The dough should be smooth and just slightly tacky.

Step 3: First Rise and Preparing the Pan

Oil a large bowl lightly with vegetable oil. Take the dough out of the mixer and turn it in the oil to coat fully. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise somewhere warm—this usually takes 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size. While you wait, melt some butter to brush your baking dish just before shaping the rolls. I like to use a 9”x13” dish, but you can swap for a similar size pan.

Step 4: Shaping the Rolls

Once your dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the gas bubbles. Divide it into 15 evenly sized pieces—this is where your hands earn their keep! Take each piece, stretch it slightly, then fold the ends underneath itself to make a smooth ball. Pinch the seams so the edges stay sealed and gently roll between your palms to shape. Arrange the dough balls seam side down in the buttered pan, lining them up in 5 rows of 3. Cover again and let them rise for another hour until doubled.

Step 5: Baking and Finishing Touches

Preheat your oven to 350°F as the rolls do their final rise. Take off the plastic wrap and bake for about 20-25 minutes, until the tops are golden and the rolls sound hollow when tapped. Immediately brush the rolls with the remaining melted butter while they’re still hot—that’s my favorite part because it gives the crust a beautiful sheen and buttery flavor that everyone notices.

How to Serve Homemade Fluffy Dinner Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

While these rolls are perfect as-is, I love adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or freshly chopped parsley on top right after brushing with butter. Sometimes I mix a little garlic powder into the melted butter before brushing for an extra pop of flavor—honestly, it’s like homemade garlic bread but better!

Side Dishes

These fluffy rolls pair beautifully with comfort foods like stews, roast chicken, or mashed potatoes. Personally, I adore serving them alongside a hearty beef stew or slathered with honey butter at brunch. You’ll find they soak up gravy and sauces perfectly, making every bite even more satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or special dinners, I’ve shaped the dough into a beautiful pull-apart roll wreath, tucking in fresh herbs between the balls before baking. It looks stunning on the table and everyone loves pulling warm rolls right from the center. You can even sprinkle some coarse salt or cheese on top for a festive touch that dazzles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Wrapping them in foil or a clean kitchen towel also helps keep that soft texture intact. My family tends to finish them quickly, but if you want to keep them longer, freezing is your best friend.

Freezing

Freeze cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature while still wrapped, then warm in the oven with a little foil over the top to refresh their softness. This trick keeps them tasting just-baked!

Reheating

To reheat rolls, I pop them into a 300°F oven wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes. If you want that fresh-baked crust, unwrap in the last few minutes of warming. Avoid microwaving because it can make rolls chewy or tough. Trust me, the oven does wonders!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Homemade Fluffy Dinner Rolls Recipe turns out every single time. It’s proof that homemade bread doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. Whenever I bring these rolls to a meal, they disappear fast—my family can’t get enough! If you’re looking to add a little magic to your dinner table, try making these rolls. You’ll find the process relaxing, the aroma irresistible, and the results downright delicious. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to brush on that butter!

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