Fluffy and Soft Dinner Rolls

There’s just something magical about homemade dinner rolls, right? The smell of warm, yeasty dough baking into golden perfection, that first buttery bite, and the way they practically melt in your mouth… these Fluffy and Soft Dinner Rolls are what cozy dinner dreams are made of. Trust me—once you make them from scratch, there’s no turning back.

They’re the kind of rolls that make any meal feel special—whether it’s Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or just a Tuesday night that needs a little extra love. Soft, slightly sweet, and wonderfully fluffy, they’re perfect for slathering with butter, mopping up gravy, or sneaking straight from the baking pan (we’ve all been there).

Why You’ll Love Fluffy and Soft Dinner Rolls

Ridiculously Soft Texture: These rolls are pillow-y perfection thanks to the milk and butter combo that gives them their signature richness.

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone—from kids to grandparents—will be reaching for seconds (and thirds).

Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for later. Warm rolls on demand? Yes, please.

Perfect for Any Occasion: They’re just as at home on a holiday table as they are next to a weeknight roast chicken.

Beginner-Friendly: If you’ve never worked with yeast before, don’t worry—this recipe breaks it down step-by-step.

Ingredients in Fluffy and Soft Dinner Rolls

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

All-Purpose Flour

Gives the rolls their structure while still keeping them tender. You can also use bread flour for a chewier texture if you like.

Active Dry Yeast

The magic that makes your rolls rise and get beautifully airy and light.

Warm Milk

Adds richness and moisture—plus, it helps activate the yeast.

Sugar

Just a little for that slight sweetness and to feed the yeast so it can do its thing.

Butter

Melted into the dough and brushed on top. It adds richness and that irresistible golden crust.

Eggs

Give the rolls structure and a little extra softness. They also help create that beautiful, shiny top when baked.

Salt

Balances the sweetness and brings out the full flavor of the rolls.

Instructions

Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy—this means your yeast is alive and ready to roll (literally).

Mix the Dough

Add eggs, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.

Knead Until Smooth

Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 8–10 minutes, until it’s smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Let It Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each one into a smooth ball and place them in a greased baking dish, spacing slightly apart.

Second Rise

Cover the rolls and let them rise again for about 30–45 minutes, until puffy and touching each other.

Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 375°F for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Brush with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven for that extra shine and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 rolls
Calories per roll: 210
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Total Sugars: 4g
Protein: 5g

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

How to Serve Fluffy and Soft Dinner Rolls

With Butter (of course): Serve warm with salted butter, honey butter, or jam for a simple and classic side.

Next to Your Main Dish: These rolls go perfectly with everything from roast chicken to creamy soups and stews.

Mini Sandwich Style: Slice in half and fill with ham, turkey, or pulled pork for a delicious little slider.

On a Holiday Table: These rolls are a must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special meal.

As a Snack: Yep, they’re that good. Warm one up and snack away!

Additional Tips

Don’t Over-Flour the Dough: A soft, slightly sticky dough gives the fluffiest results. Too much flour = dense rolls.

Make Ahead Friendly: Make the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge. Shape and bake the next day!

Freeze for Later: Freeze baked rolls in a zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

Add a Twist: Stir in herbs like rosemary or garlic powder for a savory version, or a little cinnamon and sugar for sweet rolls.

Perfect for Gifting: These rolls are such a cozy, thoughtful addition to a meal train, holiday basket, or dinner invite.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
A1: Yes! You can skip the proofing step with instant yeast—just mix it directly into the flour.

Q2: How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
A2: It should double in size and feel soft and airy when poked gently—it’ll leave an indent that slowly springs back.

Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A3: Absolutely! Use plant-based milk and butter substitutes. Just make sure they’re unsweetened and unflavored.

Q4: What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
A4: No problem! Knead by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Q5: Can I freeze the unbaked rolls?
A5: Yes—freeze them after shaping, then thaw and let them rise before baking. Perfect for planning ahead!

Q6: Why aren’t my rolls rising?
A6: Check your yeast—it may be expired or the milk may have been too hot and killed it. Aim for milk that’s warm, not hot (around 105–110°F).

Q7: Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose?
A7: Definitely! Bread flour gives them a slightly chewier texture, which some people love.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat these?
A8: Wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes. Or microwave for 10–15 seconds per roll.

Q9: How do I make the tops super golden?
A9: Brush with an egg wash before baking, and with melted butter after for a shiny, golden finish.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Absolutely! Just make sure you have a big enough bowl and baking dish—or use two pans.

Conclusion

There’s just something unbeatable about a homemade dinner roll—especially when they’re this fluffy, buttery, and soft. These Fluffy and Soft Dinner Rolls are easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to be the first thing to disappear from the table. Once you try them, they’ll be your go-to roll recipe forever. So grab your apron, warm up some milk, and get ready to bake a batch of cozy, golden perfection!

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