Soft, fluffy, golden on the outside, and wonderfully tender inside, these homemade bread rolls are perfect for breakfast, dinner, sandwiches, or serving alongside soup. They are simple enough for beginners and taste so much better when served warm with butter.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk
- ½ cup warm water
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4–4½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon melted butter, for brushing
Instructions
1. Activate the yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Make the dough
Add the melted butter and salt. Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
The dough should be slightly tacky but not excessively sticky.
3. Knead
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. First rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the rolls
Punch down the dough and divide it into approximately 12–16 equal pieces.
Shape each piece into a smooth ball and arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them.
6. Second rise
Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes, until noticeably puffy.
7. Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for approximately 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Finish with butter
Brush the freshly baked rolls with a little more melted butter while they’re still warm.
Tips for Perfect Bread Rolls
- Make sure the milk and water are warm, not hot, so you don’t damage the yeast.
- Don’t add all the flour at once. You may need slightly more or less depending on humidity and the flour.
- Give the dough enough time to rise for the softest texture.
- For extra-tender rolls, brush them with butter immediately after baking.
- Serve them warm with butter, honey, jam, or alongside your favorite meal.
Storage
Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days. You can also freeze them in a sealed freezer bag and warm them in the oven when ready to serve.