Fluffy, Buttery Homemade Rolls

Few things feel more comforting than the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven. These Fluffy, Buttery Homemade Rolls are soft, golden, and irresistibly light, making them perfect for any occasion — from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. With a tender crumb and buttery finish, they’re the kind of rolls that disappear as soon as you set them on the table.

Why You’ll Love These Rolls

• Light and fluffy: Perfectly soft with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Buttery goodness: Brushed with butter before and after baking.
• Versatile: Great with soups, salads, roasted meats, or as sliders.
• Make-ahead friendly: Dough can be prepared ahead for stress-free baking.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for brushing, melted)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy and bubbly.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter.
3. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or 5–6 minutes in a stand mixer with dough hook).

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

1. Punch down the dough and divide into 12–15 equal pieces.
2. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place on a greased baking pan or in a buttered casserole dish.
3. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush rolls with melted butter.
3. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown on top.

Step 6: Finish with Butter

Remove from oven and immediately brush with more melted butter for that irresistible glossy, buttery finish.

Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the rise: Letting the dough rise fully ensures light, airy rolls.
• Warm milk, not hot: Too hot will kill the yeast; aim for bathwater warm.
• Make ahead: Shape rolls, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day.
• Freeze option: Bake, cool, and freeze. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Variations

• Garlic Herb Rolls: Add minced garlic and chopped herbs to the dough.
• Cheddar Rolls: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese before shaping.
• Sweet Rolls: Add a bit more sugar and brush with honey butter instead of plain butter.

Why These Rolls Are Irresistible

These rolls are everything a homemade bread lover could ask for — buttery, fluffy, and perfectly golden. They’re versatile enough to serve at weeknight dinners, but special enough to earn a spot on your holiday table.

Once you try them, you’ll never go back to store-bought rolls again.

Soft, fluffy, golden, and buttery — these Homemade Rolls are comfort in every bite.