Light & Fluffy Dinner Rolls

These light and fluffy dinner rolls are the ultimate side dish for any meal. Soft, pillowy, and slightly sweet, they melt in your mouth with every bite. Perfectly golden on the outside and tender on the inside, these rolls are ideal for soaking up sauces, serving with butter, or just enjoying on their own. Whether for a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, these dinner rolls will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers the perfect balance of soft, airy texture and golden crust that makes dinner rolls irresistible. The dough is easy to make, and the rolls come out so light and fluffy, they practically melt in your mouth. With just a hint of sweetness and butteriness, they complement any meal—whether you’re serving them with soups, pastas, or a roast dinner. Plus, the process of making homemade rolls is so satisfying, and I love the fresh, warm aroma that fills the house as they bake.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F or 45°C)

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for a slightly sweeter roll)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the bowl)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, butter, egg, and honey (if using). Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.

3. Gradually add the remaining flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms into a soft ball and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, but be careful not to add too much.

5. Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil and place the dough in the bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

7. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each into a smooth ball. Place the rolls in the prepared baking dish, arranging them close together for soft, pull-apart rolls.

8. Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Remove from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter for extra richness. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 12 dinner rolls and takes about 2.5-3 hours from start to finish, including the rising time. It’s a perfect side dish for family dinners, holidays, or any special occasion.

Variations

I love to get creative with these dinner rolls by adding different flavors. Sometimes I mix in some garlic powder or freshly chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an aromatic touch. For a cheesy version, I fold in some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan into the dough before shaping. You can also make sweet rolls by adding cinnamon and sugar for a cinnamon roll twist, or try adding a bit of grated lemon zest for a fresh citrus flavor.

Storage/Reheating

These dinner rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they store well for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, I place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds if I’m in a rush. If you want to freeze them, allow the rolls to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them up in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast. Simply add it directly to the flour without proofing it in warm milk. The process remains the same otherwise.

How can I make the dough rise faster?

If I need the dough to rise faster, I place it in a warm, draft-free area, like an oven with just the light on, or near a warm stovetop. You can also speed up the process by using a bowl of warm water (but not hot) underneath the dough bowl to help warm the dough as it rises.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! After the second rise, you can cover the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. The next day, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking them as directed. This is perfect for prepping rolls the night before a big dinner.

Can I make these rolls without honey?

Yes! If I prefer a less sweet roll, I can skip the honey and the rolls will still turn out wonderfully soft and flavorful. Honey adds a subtle sweetness, but it’s not necessary.

Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, I can freeze the dough after the first rise. After shaping the rolls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let the rolls thaw in the fridge overnight, then let them rise again before baking as usual.

Conclusion

These light and fluffy dinner rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. They’re soft, buttery, and full of flavor, making them irresistible to everyone at the table. Whether served with soup, pasta, or a hearty dinner, they’re sure to be a hit. The best part is that they’re homemade and require just a few simple ingredients, making them a perfect recipe to master. I love that these rolls are always a crowd-pleaser and bring warmth and comfort to any meal.