Old-fashioned dinner rolls recipe

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Old-Fashioned Dinner Rolls Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food

There’s something truly special about Old-fashioned dinner rolls recipe. Soft, fluffy, and buttery, they are a timeless addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, these rolls bring warmth and tradition to the table.

The secret to their charm lies in their simplicity and homemade quality. These rolls are made with basic ingredients yet deliver extraordinary flavor and texture. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out this traditional yeast rolls recipe for a Southern-style twist, or explore tips for soft and buttery rolls to perfect your technique.

What Makes Old-fashioned dinner rolls recipe So Special?

The appeal of old-fashioned dinner rolls lies in their fluffy texture and rich buttery flavor. Unlike store-bought versions, these rolls are homemade with love, making them the perfect comfort food. They pair seamlessly with any dish, from hearty soups to roasted meats.

Traditional Characteristics for the Best Homemade Old-fashioned dinner rolls recipe

  • Soft and pillowy interior
  • Slightly golden, buttery crust
  • Subtle sweetness from sugar or honey
  • A hint of yeast aroma

Key Ingredients for the Best Homemade Old-fashioned dinner rolls recipe

  • Flour: All-purpose or bread flour for a chewy texture
  • Yeast: Active dry or instant yeast for a perfect rise
  • Milk: Adds richness and softness
  • Butter: For flavor and a tender crumb
  • Sugar: Balances flavors and aids in browning

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Old-fashioned dinner rolls recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) of active dry yeast
  • 1 cup of warm milk
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • 4 tablespoons of melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 egg (optional, for added richness)

Instructions for the Best Homemade Old-fashioned dinner rolls recipe

  1. Activate the Yeast
    • Dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar.
    • Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the Dough
    • Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
    • Add the foamy yeast mixture and melted butter.
    • Mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    • Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
  4. Let the Dough Rise
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
  5. Shape the Rolls
    • Punch down the dough and divide it into 12-16 equal pieces.
    • Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet.
  6. Final Rise
    • Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  7. Bake
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Brush the rolls with melted butter and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Serve
    • Serve warm with additional butter for spreading.

Tips for Success with This Old-fashioned dinner rolls recipe

  • Activate yeast properly: Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Be patient with rising times: Dough needs adequate time to double in size.
  • Brush with butter: This enhances flavor and gives a shiny finish.

Variations of This Old-fashioned dinner rolls recipe

Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls

  • Substitute 50% of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

Herb-Infused Rolls

  • Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.

Cheese-Stuffed Rolls

  • Place a cube of cheddar or mozzarella in the center of each roll before baking.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair rolls with soups like tomato or butternut squash.
  • Use them as a side for roasted meats or Thanksgiving turkey.
  • Create mini sandwiches with leftover ham or chicken.

Storing and Reheating

Storage

  • Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

  • Freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

  • Warm rolls in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 10 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size. Press it lightly with your finger; if the indentation remains, it’s ready.

Can I freeze the dough instead of baking?

Yes! Shape the rolls and freeze them on a tray before the final rise. Thaw and let them rise before baking.

What’s the best way to shape the rolls uniformly?

Use a kitchen scale to divide the dough evenly, ensuring consistent roll sizes.

Conclusion

There’s no substitute for the warm, buttery goodness of old-fashioned dinner rolls. By following this recipe, you’ll enjoy soft, fluffy rolls that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to tradition or try a fun variation, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite.

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