Are you tired of store-bought dinner rolls that lack flavor and warmth? Do you crave that homemade, melt-in-your-mouth goodness that only a perfectly baked roll can provide? Then look no further! Today, we're sharing a recipe for dinner rolls so delicious, they'll be the star of any meal. These easy recipes are perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned bakers alike, promising a delightful culinary experience that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these fluffy, golden-brown beauties!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic, creating those wonderfully airy rolls.
- Whisk in the egg and melted butter. The egg adds richness and helps bind the dough, while the butter contributes to that irresistible softness.
Kneading the Dough:
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Kneading develops the gluten, giving your rolls their perfect texture.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size. This slow rise is key for developing flavor and achieving that airy crumb.
Shaping and Second Rise:
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cooling and Serving:
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a little butter or your favorite spread!
Tips for Perfect Dinner Rolls:
- Use a Kitchen Scale: For consistent results, weigh your ingredients instead of using measuring cups.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in tough rolls. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough, but stop kneading once it reaches that point.
- Proofing: A warm, draft-free place is ideal for the rising process. You can even place the bowl in a slightly warm oven (turned off) for faster rising.
Variations:
- Herb Rolls: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Sweet Rolls: Increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons and add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for sweeter rolls.
- Garlic Rolls: Brush the baked rolls with garlic butter (melted butter mixed with minced garlic) for a savory treat.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
These delicious dinner rolls are a wonderful addition to any meal, from simple weeknight dinners to special occasions. They're a perfect example of how easy recipes can result in truly remarkable, homemade cooking. Enjoy!