Introduction
Homemade dinner rolls are a comforting addition to any meal. Soft, fluffy, and warm from the oven, these rolls are perfect for accompanying soups, salads, or a hearty main dish. This recipe from Love and Lemons guides you through the simple steps to create your own delicious rolls at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1¼ cups milk, warmed
1 (¼-ounce) package active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
2 tablespoons sugar
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon sea salt
3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled (375g), plus more for kneading
Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
Prep Time
1 hour 15 minutes (including rising time)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield: 15 rolls
Instructions
1. Proof the Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, stir together the warmed milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy. If the yeast doesn’t foam, discard the mixture and start again with fresh yeast.
2. Prepare the Dough: Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, and sea salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed to combine. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Once all the flour is added, increase the speed to medium and mix for about 2 minutes until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough forms around the hook, pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
3. Knead and First Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead a few times to form it into a ball. If the dough is too sticky to handle, incorporate a little more flour. Brush a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Rolls and Second Rise: Brush a baking sheet or a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Turn the risen dough onto a clean work surface and divide it into 15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by rolling it on the countertop under your cupped hand. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly dust the tops with flour to prevent sticking, cover with plastic wrap, and let them rise for another hour, or until puffy.
5. Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and position an oven rack to a low position. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown, rotating the pan halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
6. Finish and Serve: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and a pinch of sea salt. Brush the warm rolls with the butter mixture and serve immediately.
Enjoy your homemade dinner rolls!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Proof the Yeast
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, stir together the warmed milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy. If the yeast doesn’t foam, discard the mixture and start again with fresh yeast.
Prepare the Dough
Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, and sea salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed to combine. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Once all the flour is added, increase the speed to medium and mix for about 2 minutes until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough forms around the hook, pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
Knead and First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead a few times to form it into a ball. If the dough is too sticky to handle, incorporate a little more flour. Brush a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Shape the Rolls and Second Rise
Brush a baking sheet or a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Turn the risen dough onto a clean work surface and divide it into 15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by rolling it on the countertop under your cupped hand. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly dust the tops with flour to prevent sticking, cover with plastic wrap, and let them rise for another hour, or until puffy.
Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and position an oven rack to a low position. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown, rotating the pan halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
Finish and Serve
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and a pinch of sea salt. Brush the warm rolls with the butter mixture and serve immediately.
Notes
Yeast Activation
Ensure that the milk is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.
Dough Consistency
The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Add small amounts of flour as needed to avoid a sticky mess.
Rising Environment
A warm, draft-free area is ideal for the dough to rise effectively. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the bowl in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) or in a sunny spot.
Roll Size
For uniformity, you can use a kitchen scale to measure each piece, aiming for about 1.5 ounces per roll.
Cook techniques
Proofing Yeast
Proofing yeast involves mixing it with warm liquid and sugar, allowing it to activate and foam. This step ensures that the yeast is alive and ready to help the dough rise.
Mixing Dough
Mixing dough involves gradually adding flour to wet ingredients while using a stand mixer. Start on low speed to combine the ingredients before increasing the speed to develop gluten, which gives the dough structure.
Kneading Dough
Kneading dough is the process of working it by hand or with a machine to develop elasticity. It helps to create a smooth, cohesive dough that can hold air bubbles, resulting in fluffy rolls.
Rising Dough
Rising dough, also known as proofing, is allowing the dough to double in size by resting it in a warm environment. This fermentation process helps develop flavor and texture.
Shaping Rolls
Shaping rolls involves dividing the dough into equal pieces and rolling them into balls. This step is crucial for creating uniform rolls that will bake evenly.
Baking Rolls
Baking rolls requires preheating the oven to the appropriate temperature and monitoring the cooking time to achieve a golden brown hue. It’s important to rotate the pan for even baking.
Finishing Rolls
Finishing rolls includes brushing them with melted butter and a sprinkle of salt after they come out of the oven, adding flavor and a nice sheen to the crust.
FAQ
What should I do if my yeast doesn’t foam?
If your yeast doesn’t foam after proofing, it may be inactive. Discard the mixture and try again with fresh yeast to ensure your rolls rise properly.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser rolls. Consider mixing it with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
What is the best way to store leftover rolls?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
How can I tell when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls are done when they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; they should read about 190°F (88°C) internally.
Can I add herbs or cheese to the rolls?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate herbs, cheese, or other toppings into the dough for added flavor before shaping the rolls.
Conclusion
Homemade dinner rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a warm, fluffy, and buttery experience that enhances your dining table. The process of making them is simple yet rewarding, filling your kitchen with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. Serve these rolls with your favorite dishes, and they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Herb Dinner Rolls
Add minced garlic and your favorite herbs to the dough for a flavorful twist on classic dinner rolls. Brush with herb-infused olive oil before serving.
Cheddar and Chive Rolls
Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives into the dough for a savory roll perfect for accompanying soups and salads.
Cinnamon Sugar Rolls
Transform the dough into sweet rolls by adding cinnamon and sugar to the filling, then top with a cream cheese glaze for a delicious dessert option.
Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls
Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative that retains the same fluffy texture.
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Mix in mashed sweet potatoes into the dough for vibrant, subtly sweet rolls that pair wonderfully with Thanksgiving dinners or roasted meats.
Olive and Rosemary Rolls
Fold in chopped olives and fresh rosemary to the dough for a Mediterranean-inspired roll that complements pasta dishes beautifully.
