Dinner Rolls Recipe

All-purpose flour: This is the base of the dough, providing structure and texture.

Active dry yeast: This helps the dough rise, making the rolls light and fluffy.

Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps to form the dough.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps to feed the yeast.

Melted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the rolls.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.

Beaten egg: Adds moisture and helps to bind the dough together.

When dissolving yeast in warm water, ensure the water is at the correct temperature of 110°F. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast, and if it's too cold, the yeast won't activate properly. Use a kitchen thermometer to get an accurate reading.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content which can give the rolls a chewier texture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, but may make the rolls denser.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be mixed directly with dry ingredients and does not need to be activated in water first.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with fresh yeast: Fresh yeast can provide a more robust flavor, but you will need to use about twice the amount.

• warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk can make the rolls softer and add a richer flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a different sweetness and can help keep the rolls moist.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a unique flavor and can also add moisture to the rolls.

• melted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter.

• melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a different flavor and is a healthier fat option.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different flavor and texture.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) can be used as a vegan alternative.

• beaten egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as an egg substitute to add moisture and a slight sweetness.

• Allow the dinner rolls to cool completely at room temperature before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation, which can make the rolls soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the dinner rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer a slightly crisp exterior, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

• For longer storage, wrap each dinner roll individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped rolls in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

• To thaw frozen dinner rolls, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature, still wrapped, for about 2-3 hours. This gradual thawing helps maintain their texture and flavor.

• For a quicker thaw, you can microwave the dinner rolls on a microwave-safe plate. Use the defrost setting or microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals until thawed. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the rolls tough.

• To refresh the dinner rolls after thawing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside.

• If you want to add a touch of freshness, brush the tops of the dinner rolls with melted butter or olive oil before reheating. This will give them a delightful sheen and enhance their flavor.

• For a special treat, sprinkle the tops of the dinner rolls with a pinch of sea salt or herbs like rosemary or thyme before reheating. This adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the soft, warm rolls.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Wrap the dinner rolls in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  3. Place the wrapped rolls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the dinner rolls on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time in 10-second increments if needed.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Preheat a skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Lightly butter the skillet or use a bit of olive oil.
  3. Place the dinner rolls in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the dinner rolls directly on the rack or on a baking sheet.
  3. Heat for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Steam Method:

  1. Bring a pot of water to a simmer and place a steamer basket over it.
  2. Place the dinner rolls in the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until the rolls are warmed through and soft.

• Large mixing bowl: This is where you will dissolve the yeast in warm water and mix the initial ingredients to form the dough.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, butter, and water.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring smaller quantities like salt and yeast.

• Whisk: Useful for beating the egg and ensuring it is well incorporated into the dough mixture.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing the dough before kneading.

• Clean surface: A lightly floured surface is needed for kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.

• Greased bowl: Used to place the dough in for its first rise, ensuring it doesn’t stick.

• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises, keeping it warm and moist.

• Baking sheet: Greased and used to place the shaped rolls on for their final rise and baking.

• Oven: Preheated to 400°F (200°C) for baking the rolls to a golden brown perfection.

• Pastry brush: Optional, but can be used to brush melted butter on the rolls after baking for extra flavor and shine.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the process and reduce preparation time.

Use a stand mixer: If you have a stand mixer, use it to mix and knead the dough. This saves time and effort compared to kneading by hand.

Warm environment for rising: Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area to speed up the rising process. You can use an oven with the light on or a microwave with a cup of hot water inside.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while the dough is rising for the second time. This ensures it's ready to go as soon as the rolls are shaped and risen.