Description
Classic Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls are soft, fluffy, and buttery bread rolls perfect for any meal. Made with simple ingredients and a traditional yeast dough, these rolls have a tender crumb and golden tops brushed with melted butter, making them irresistible warm from the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Yeast Mixture
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Dough
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour (start with 3 1/2 cups and add more as needed)
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, softened butter, egg, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Add Yeast and Flour: Stir the activated yeast mixture into the wet ingredients. Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Add additional flour as needed to make a soft, slightly sticky dough.
- Knead the Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for this step.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide it into 12-15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced slightly apart.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Brush with Butter: Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter to give them a shiny, soft finish.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy as a delightful side to any meal.
Notes
- You can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for chewier rolls.
- Ensure liquids are warmed to approximately 110°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- For a richer flavor, substitute part of the milk with cream or add a tablespoon of honey to the dough.
- These rolls freeze well; cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.
