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The Ultimate Soft and Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls (Classic Buttery Recipe)

Close-up of twelve golden brown, shiny dinner rolls baked together in a white casserole dish.

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You can make incredibly soft, fluffy, and buttery dinner rolls from scratch. This recipe proves that homemade bread tastes much better than store-bought options for your family meals or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, plus 2 tablespoons for brushing
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • For Topping (Optional Texas Roadhouse Style): 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: Add the 1/4 cup melted butter, sugar, and egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk until combined.
  3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of flour and the salt.
  4. Form the dough: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.
  6. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Shape the rolls: Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Place the balls close together in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
  8. Second Rise: Cover the pan loosely and let the rolls rise again in a warm place for 30 to 45 minutes, or until puffy.
  9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
  10. Apply Butter Topping: While the rolls are still hot, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Brush the tops generously with the melted butter.
  11. For Texas Roadhouse Style Finish (Optional): Whisk together the 1/4 cup melted butter, honey, and cinnamon. Brush this mixture over the hot rolls immediately after baking.
  12. Serve warm for the best soft, fluffy texture.

Notes

  • For quick dinner rolls, ensure your water temperature is correct; water that is too hot will kill the yeast.
  • You can make these ahead: Assemble the rolls in the pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
  • These rolls are excellent served with honey butter or garlic butter for added flavor.

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