Soft and Easy Dinner Rolls (Butter, Milk, Instant Yeast)

These are soft, fluffy dinner rolls that come together with simple ingredients and a straightforward process. They have a light, tender texture from the milk and butter, and they work well for weeknight dinners or holidays.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk (about 105 to 110°F)

• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 large egg

• 4 tablespoons butter, softened and cubed

• 3 to 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Combine the base

In a large bowl, mix together:

• warm milk

• sugar

• instant yeast

Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes.

2. Add remaining wet ingredients

Mix in:

• egg

• salt

• softened cubed butter

The butter may not fully incorporate at this stage, which is fine.

3. Add flour

Add 3 cups of flour and mix until a soft dough forms.

If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it is soft but manageable.

4. Knead

Knead the dough for:

• 8 to 10 minutes by hand

• or 5 to 6 minutes with a mixer

The dough should be smooth, slightly tacky, and elastic.

5. First rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

6. Shape the rolls

Punch down the dough and divide into 12 to 15 pieces.

Shape into smooth balls and place in a greased baking dish.

7. Second rise

Cover and let rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, until the rolls are puffy and slightly touching.

8. Bake

Bake at 375°F for 15 to 18 minutes, until lightly golden on top.

9. Finish

Brush with melted butter immediately after baking for a softer finish.

Tips

• Keep the milk warm, not hot, to avoid damaging the yeast

• Use softened butter instead of melted for better structure

• Avoid adding too much flour, which can make the rolls dense

• Allow enough time for both rises for the best texture

Storage

• Store at room temperature for 2 to 3 days

• Freeze for up to 2 months

Reheat briefly before serving to soften.

Final Notes

This is a simple, reliable dinner roll recipe that produces soft, consistent results. It is easy to repeat and adjust depending on your schedule.