Ultimate Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Experience the warm, comforting aroma of fresh-baked bread with these Ultimate Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls. Perfect for any family gathering or holiday meal, these soft, fluffy rolls are incredibly simple to make and will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve them warm with butter for the perfect addition to your dinner table.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-24T07:03:04.636Z

These homemade dinner rolls are not just any rolls - they're a family favorite that symbolizes warmth and togetherness.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Ultimate Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls are versatile enough to complement any meal. Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner, a festive holiday gathering, or a family barbecue, these rolls will elevate your dining experience. Their light, fluffy texture and buttery flavor are sure to impress your guests, making them a staple at your table. Imagine the smiles on your loved ones' faces as they enjoy these freshly baked rolls, warm and inviting.

In addition to being delicious, dinner rolls are also incredibly easy to make. The recipe requires simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. With minimal hands-on time, you’ll have warm, homemade rolls ready to serve in no time. They're perfect for soaking up gravy, pairing with soups, or simply enjoying with butter.

Tips for the Perfect Rolls

To ensure your dinner rolls come out perfectly, one of the most important factors is to maintain the right temperature for rising. Yeast is sensitive, and too cold or hot of an environment can affect the dough’s ability to rise. Aim for a warm, draft-free area to let the dough double in size—a cozy kitchen or slightly warmed oven works wonders!

Another secret to fluffy rolls is to knead the dough just enough to develop the gluten structure without overworking it. This can take around five minutes. Keep your work surface lightly floured, and don’t be afraid to stick to the recommended rising times. Patience is key in baking, and these rolls are well worth the wait!

Storing and Reheating

Once your delicious rolls are baked, you may have some leftovers. To store them, keep the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to preserve them for longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and they will last up to three months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftover rolls, reheating is a breeze. Place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for about 15 seconds each, but be careful not to overdo it, as that can dry them out. Enjoy your warm rolls just as if they were freshly baked!

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Rolls

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg

These ingredients come together to create the softest, fluffiest rolls.

Instructions

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Then, add melted butter, salt, and egg, mixing well.

Add Flour

Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes.

Let it Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape and Bake

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 12 pieces. Shape into balls and place in a greased baking dish. Let rise for another 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes.

Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving warm with butter.

The History of Dinner Rolls

Dinner rolls have a rich history that dates back centuries. Originally made with simple ingredients, they have evolved over time into the fluffy, delicious rolls we know today. Traditionally served alongside main meals, these rolls symbolize comfort and togetherness in many cultures across the world.

In the United States, dinner rolls became a popular item in family gatherings and celebrations, especially during the holiday season. Each family often has their own twist, adding ingredients like herbs, cheese, or even sweets for a unique spin on this classic recipe. This diverse history showcases the versatility and significance of dinner rolls in our dining traditions.

Experimenting with Flavors

While this recipe provides a delightful base for dinner rolls, don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors. Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough can infuse the rolls with a delicious aroma and taste. For a touch of sweetness, incorporating cinnamon and sugar can transform your rolls into a fantastic side for breakfast or brunch.

Cheese lovers can also enhance their rolls by folding in shredded cheese before shaping them. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a hint of garlic can take these rolls to the next level. The options are endless, and experimenting with flavors can make your rolls a unique signature dish that family and friends will rave about!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before the second rise.

Ultimate Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe

Experience the warm, comforting aroma of fresh-baked bread with these Ultimate Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls. Perfect for any family gathering or holiday meal, these soft, fluffy rolls are incredibly simple to make and will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve them warm with butter for the perfect addition to your dinner table.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 12 rolls

What You'll Need

For the Rolls

  1. 4 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 packet active dry yeast
  3. 1 cup warm water
  4. 1/4 cup sugar
  5. 1/4 cup butter, melted
  6. 1 teaspoon salt
  7. 1 egg

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Then, add melted butter, salt, and egg, mixing well.

Step 02

Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes.

Step 03

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 04

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 12 pieces. Shape into balls and place in a greased baking dish. Let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150