Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls

Few things are as comforting as the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven. The warm, buttery aroma fills the kitchen, signaling that something delicious is on the way. If you’ve ever wanted to recreate that magic at home, you’re in luck! This recipe for Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls has been passed down through generations, and it’s a true winner.

These rolls are perfectly soft, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet. Whether you serve them with a hearty bowl of soup, alongside a holiday feast, or with your morning coffee, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make!

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to whip up a batch of these delightful homemade rolls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beginner-Friendly: No complicated techniques here — just simple, straightforward steps that anyone can follow.

Soft and Fluffy Texture: The rolls are perfectly tender, thanks to the combination of milk, eggs, and just the right kneading time.

Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, a sandwich bun, or even a sweet treat with jam or honey.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the dough in advance and bake when ready, making this a stress-free option for busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these heavenly homemade rolls:

All-Purpose Flour (4 cups): The base of the dough, providing structure and softness.

Yeast (2 teaspoons): The magic ingredient that makes the dough rise and become fluffy.

Sugar (3 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness and helps activate the yeast.

Warm Milk (1 1/4 cups): Creates a tender crumb and adds richness to the dough.

Olive Oil or Avocado Oil (1/4 cup): Keeps the rolls moist and adds a subtle flavor.

Eggs (2): Contribute to the soft, pillowy texture of the rolls.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Egg White + Water (for egg wash): Helps give the rolls a golden, shiny crust.

Melted Butter (2 tablespoons): Brushed on after baking for an irresistible buttery finish.

How to Make Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect rolls every time!

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast and sugar. Add the warm milk (about 110°F — warm to the touch but not too hot) and stir gently. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step proves that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Once the yeast is bubbly, add the oil, salt, and eggs to the bowl. Whisk until well combined.
Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, adding a little extra flour as needed to prevent sticking. The dough should become smooth and elastic but still soft to the touch.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 24 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Arrange the dough balls in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between them to allow for rising.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. They’ll puff up and fill out the pan, getting ready for their time in the oven.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash to give them that classic golden brown finish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden and sound hollow when tapped.

Step 8: Finish with Butter

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them with melted butter. This adds a rich, buttery flavor and keeps the crust soft.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Rolls

Check the Yeast: If your yeast doesn’t foam up during activation, it may be expired. Start over with fresh yeast to avoid dense rolls.

Temperature Matters: Warm milk helps activate the yeast, but if it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast. Aim for around 110°F.

Kneading is Key: Kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls structure. Don’t skip this step!

Let Them Rise Fully: Be patient during the rising times — it’s worth it for the fluffy texture.

Customize the Flavor: Add herbs, garlic powder, or shredded cheese to the dough for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions

These homemade rolls are incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

With Soup or Stew: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of broth or gravy.

As Sandwich Buns: Slice the rolls in half and use them for sliders or mini sandwiches.

With Butter and Jam: A simple yet delicious way to enjoy them for breakfast or a snack.

Holiday Feasts: A must-have side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough, shape the rolls, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise for 30 minutes before baking.

Freezing: Baked rolls freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven before serving.

Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to freshen them up.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a true classic for a reason. The combination of milk, eggs, and a touch of sugar creates rolls that are perfectly soft, slightly sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. The egg wash gives them a beautiful golden color, while the final butter brush adds irresistible richness.

And because the recipe is straightforward and flexible, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to be a hit!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade bread, and these Soft and Buttery Homemade Rolls are no exception. They’re simple, delicious, and guaranteed to make any meal feel extra special.

So roll up your sleeves, get kneading, and treat yourself to the joy of freshly baked rolls. Your kitchen will smell amazing, your taste buds will thank you, and your family will be begging for more!

Happy baking!

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