If you’re searching for an easy yet delicious roll recipe to serve at your next large gathering, look no further. These homemade rolls are far superior to store-bought ones and can be ready to bake in just about an hour. As someone who has made these roles countless times for family and friends, I can confidently say they’re always a hit.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 stick of butter, melted
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of active dry yeast
- 8 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter or milk (for brushing)
- 1/8 cup of oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Liquid Base
In a medium saucepan, heat the water and milk until it reaches about 110°F. Be careful not to boil it—just warm it up. Tip: If the mixture gets too hot, let it cool at room temperature for a few minutes.
2. Activate the Yeast
Remove the milk mixture from heat and add the melted butter, sugar, and yeast. Stir the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy on top.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Pour the yeast mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined.
4. Knead the Dough
Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 5–10 minutes until you achieve a smooth, elastic dough ball.
5. Let the Dough Rise
Lightly coat the dough with oil, cover the bowl with a towel, and let it rise for 15 minutes. By then, the dough should almost double in size.
6. Shape the Rolls
Pinch off small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Depending on the size you prefer, you can make about 48 small rolls or 24 larger ones.
7. Second Rise
Arrange the dough balls in a greased glass dish. Cover them and let them rise again for about 20 minutes.
8. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Before baking, brush the rolls with melted butter or milk to encourage a golden, shiny crust. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls make a fantastic side dish for any family-style dinner. Soft, buttery, and irresistibly golden, they’re perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or holiday meals.
Enjoy baking these delightful rolls and watch them become the star of your table!
