Ever crave warm, soft bread rolls fresh from the oven? This easy bread rolls recipe is just what you need. With a golden crust and fluffy insides, they’re perfect for any meal—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a holiday feast. You don’t need special tools or experience, just a few simple ingredients and a little time. Let’s make homemade rolls that everyone will love.
Why We Love This Bread Rolls Recipe
There’s something truly special about making bread from scratch—it’s simple, satisfying, and fills your home with the kind of warmth you can’t get from a store-bought loaf. This bread rolls recipe is a go-to favorite because it strikes the perfect balance between soft, fluffy texture and a lightly golden crust that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. It’s made with everyday ingredients, no fancy tools required, and offers a wonderfully airy texture that pairs with just about anything.
Here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:
- Beginner-friendly: Simple steps with consistent, reliable results.
- Versatile: Perfect for dinner, sliders, breakfast sandwiches, or even a cozy snack with butter.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prep the dough in advance or freeze the rolls for later.
- Comfort food at its best: There’s something deeply comforting about pulling fresh, warm rolls from the oven.
Once you make your own homemade bread rolls, it’s hard to go back to the store-bought kind. The flavor is richer, the texture is better, and you control exactly what goes into them.
Ingredients with Quantities
All-purpose flour – Provides the right texture for soft, fluffy rolls. Avoid using whole wheat for a denser result.
Active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise. Make sure it’s fresh and activated in warm milk.
Granulated sugar – Feeds the yeast and adds slight sweetness.
Warm milk – Whole milk makes the rolls soft and moist. Use warm (not hot) milk to activate the yeast.
Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and flavor. If using salted butter, reduce the salt in the recipe.
Egg – Binds the ingredients and helps the rolls rise, adding richness.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Melted butter (for brushing) – Gives the rolls a golden, buttery finish.
Instructions
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on making these delicious homemade bread rolls! Follow these simple steps to create soft, fluffy rolls with a golden, buttery crust.
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour if needed.
Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough, divide it into 12 pieces, and roll them into balls. Place them close together in a greased baking dish or lined sheet.
Second rise: Cover the rolls and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes until it is golden brown and hollow when tapped.
Brush with butter: Brush the hot rolls with melted butter for a shiny finish. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips
To make sure your bread rolls turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips that will elevate your baking game and help you achieve soft, fluffy rolls with a beautiful golden crust.
Use fresh yeast:
Always check the expiration date on your yeast packet. Fresh, active yeast ensures your dough rises properly, giving you light and fluffy rolls. If you’re unsure, proof the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk with sugar. It should bubble up within 5-10 minutes—if it doesn’t, it’s time to replace your yeast.
Control the temperature:
The environment where your dough rises is crucial. If your kitchen is cool, try placing your bowl in a slightly warm oven (with the oven turned off) or near a warm window. A warm, draft-free area speeds up the rising process.
Knead to the right texture:
When kneading the dough, don’t rush. The dough should feel smooth and elastic but still a little tacky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it. The right consistency ensures soft, tender rolls.
Don’t skip the second rise:
While the dough can look ready after the first rise, the second rise is what gives your rolls that soft, airy texture. Be patient and allow the dough to puff up before baking. This step is key to achieving that pillowy softness.
Brush with butter right away:
After baking, brush the melted butter on the rolls as soon as they come out of the oven. This not only gives them a beautiful glossy finish but also adds that extra buttery flavor everyone loves.
Freeze for later:
These rolls freeze beautifully! Once baked and cooled, simply place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or reheat them in the oven. Fresh, warm rolls in minutes!
Experiment with flavors:
While this recipe is a classic, feel free to add flavor variations to your dough. Try mixing in garlic powder, herbs, or grated cheese for a savory twist. Sweeten them up with a dash of cinnamon or add a drizzle of honey for a delightful treat.
Variations
While this bread rolls recipe is a classic, there are so many fun and delicious ways to customize it to your taste. Whether you’re looking to add a savory twist, go for a sweet option, or experiment with different ingredients, these variations will give your rolls a unique flair. Let’s dive into some creative ideas that will have everyone asking for more!
Garlic Herb Rolls
If you love garlic bread, this variation is for you! Simply add 2-3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of dried oregano or thyme to the dough while mixing. After baking, brush the rolls with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
Cheese Stuffed Rolls
For a cheesy twist, add a small cube of your favorite cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) to the center of each dough ball before shaping. When the rolls bake, they’ll have a gooey, cheesy surprise inside. You can also sprinkle grated cheese on top before baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
Cinnamon Sugar Rolls
For a sweet version, roll out the dough and brush it with melted butter, then sprinkle a generous mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the dough before rolling it up into a log. Slice and bake as you would with the regular rolls, and you’ll have sweet, soft rolls perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Serving Suggestions
These bread rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to complement any meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a special gathering, here are some delicious serving suggestions to make your rolls the star of the show!
With Soups and Stews
Soft, warm bread rolls are perfect for dunking into your favorite soups and stews. Whether you’re serving a classic tomato soup, a hearty vegetable stew, or a rich chicken noodle, these rolls will soak up all the delicious flavors and make each bite even more satisfying.
As a Side for Pasta Dishes
Pair your rolls with pasta dishes like spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine Alfredo. The fluffy texture of the rolls is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate, and they add an extra layer of comfort to your meal.
Make a Sandwich
Slice the rolls and use them to create sandwiches or sliders. They’re perfect for filling with roast beef, chicken salad, or even grilled veggies and cheese for a delicious lunch or snack. The soft texture of the rolls creates a perfect balance with the fillings.
With Butter and Jam for Breakfast
For a simple, comforting breakfast, serve the rolls warm with a generous spread of butter and fruit jam or honey. The sweetness of the jam pairs beautifully with the soft, buttery rolls, creating a breakfast that’s sure to satisfy.
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FAQs
When it comes to baking bread rolls, you might have a few questions or concerns. No worries—we’ve got you covered with some of the most commonly asked questions to help make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Let’s dive in!
1. Can I make these bread rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can easily prepare the dough the day before. After mixing and kneading the dough, let it rise for about 1 hour, then punch it down and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The next day, shape and bake as usual. This method works well for meal prep or if you want fresh rolls without all the work on the day of serving.
2. What should I do if my bread rolls turn out too dense?
Dense rolls could result from overworking the dough or not allowing it enough time to rise. To avoid this, ensure that you’re kneading the dough just until it’s smooth, not overworking it. Also, make sure you’re giving the dough enough time to rise in a warm environment—usually 1 to 1.5 hours. If you’re in a rush, try using instant yeast, which works faster!
3. What’s the best way to store leftover rolls?
Leftover bread rolls should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
4. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will give your rolls a denser texture and a slightly nutty flavor. However, you might need to add a bit more liquid to the dough, as whole wheat flour absorbs moisture differently than white flour.
bread rolls recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
- 1 cup warm milk about 110°F / 43°C
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing after baking
Instructions
Activate the yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Mix the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the frothy yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter. Mix everything together until it forms a sticky dough.
Knead the dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes, adding small amounts of flour if necessary, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You’re looking for that perfect, slightly tacky feel—don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth right away.
Let the dough rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is called proofing and is key to getting that perfect soft texture.
Shape the rolls:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 12 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball. Place the rolls close together in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re touching for soft, pull-apart rolls.
Second rise:
- Cover the shaped rolls with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up nicely.
Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls are ready, pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and have a hollow sound when tapped on top.
Brush with butter:
- As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them with the melted butter to give them a beautiful, glossy finish. Let them cool slightly before serving.