Are you craving warm, fluffy dinner rolls but don't have any milk on hand? Don't worry! This delicious recipe delivers soft, pillowy rolls without relying on dairy. It's a perfect example of how easy and satisfying homemade cooking can be, even with simple ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is one of the best recipes for easy, healthy meals, a fantastic addition to any quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (for brushing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and your rolls will rise beautifully.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Once the yeast is foamy, stir in the salt and olive oil. The olive oil adds richness and moisture to the dough, contributing to the soft texture of the final product.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. The exact amount of flour may vary slightly depending on the humidity and type of flour.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 5: 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 is a crucial step for achieving that signature fluffy texture.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Step 8: Bake the Rolls
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 9: Brush with Butter
As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with melted butter. This adds flavor and shine, enhancing their delicious appeal.
Tips for Perfect Dinner Rolls:
- Water Temperature: Make sure your water is the correct temperature—too hot will kill the yeast, too cold will prevent it from activating.
- Kneading: Proper kneading is essential for developing gluten, resulting in soft and chewy rolls.
- Rising Time: Rising times may vary depending on the temperature of your environment.
- Don't Overbake: Keep a close eye on your rolls while they bake to prevent them from becoming dry.
Variations:
- Herb Rolls: Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the dough for a flavorful twist.
- Sweet Rolls: Add 2 tablespoons of sugar to the dough for sweeter rolls. Consider adding cinnamon sugar to the tops before baking.
- Garlic Rolls: Brush the baked rolls with garlic butter instead of plain butter.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: Approximately 5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g
- Protein: Approximately 4g
These delicious dinner rolls are a fantastic addition to any meal, and a perfect example of delicious dishes you can make at home without complex ingredients or techniques. Enjoy!