Homemade sweet dinner rolls
Homemade sweet dinner rolls are timeless, bringing warmth and softness to any family gathering or meal. Light, fluffy, and subtly sweet, these rolls are the perfect side for any dinner table. With this easy recipe, you can create bakery-style rolls in your kitchen. This method offers straightforward, step-by-step guidance even if you’re a beginner. The dough is prepared in a bread machine, then shaped and baked in the oven to achieve a golden, tender finish. So, let’s get started with these irresistibly sweet and soft dinner rolls that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenient Preparation: Using a bread machine simplifies the dough-making process.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: Each roll is pillowy soft, thanks to the rich combination of butter and milk.
- Versatile for Any Meal: Perfect as a side for holiday dinners, Sunday lunches, or even breakfast.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients you already have in your pantry.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance to save time on busy days.
- Customizable Flavor Options: Easily adapted with added herbs or honey for sweetness.
Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make these delicious homemade sweet dinner rolls. Each element has been chosen to create a balanced, light, and slightly sweet roll:
- ½ cup warm water (110°F/45°C) – Warm water activates the yeast for an ideal rise.
- Half cup milk warm The milk adds moisture and flavor for the dough.
- ⅓ cup softened butter – Provides fat, giving the rolls a soft, tender texture.
- 1 large egg – Binds the dough and enriches the flavor.
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – All-purpose flour is ideal for creating roll structure.
- ⅓ cup white sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavor and enhances the sweetness.
- 1 (.25 ounce) package of active dry yeast – Essential for the dough to rise.
- ¼ cup softened butter (for rolling) – Add a delicious buttery layer within the rolls.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before starting, gather these essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth preparation process:
- Bread Machine: Ideal for kneading the dough and allowing it to rise.
- Rolling Pin: This is used to roll the dough into even circles.
- Baking Sheet: Use an ungreased baking sheet to avoid sticking.
- Parchment Paper: Place on the baking sheet if you prefer easier cleanup and less sticking.
- Clean Kitchen Towel: Cover the rolls and allow them to rise in a warm environment.
- Oven: Preheated to 400°F (200°C) for a perfect golden bake.
How to Prepare This Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Homemade Sweet Dinner Rolls
| Step | Detailed Instructions |
| 1 | Add water, milk, butter, egg, flour, sugar, salt, and yeast into the bread machine, select the “Dough” cycle, and start. |
| 2 | turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface once the cycle finishes. |
| 3 | Divide the dough and roll each portion into a 12-inch circle. |
| 4 | Spread ¼ cup softened butter over each dough circle. |
| 5 | Cut each circle into eight wedges and roll each from the wide end to the tip. |
| 6 | Place each roll, tip-side down, on an ungreased baking sheet and cover with a kitchen towel. Allow them to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. |
| 7 | Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the rolls for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. |
Special Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality butter have different flavors and textures.
- Warm Environment for Rising: For the best rise, place the rolls in a warm place. A slightly heated oven (turned off) works perfectly.
- Butter Layer: Spreading softened butter on the dough before rolling adds a rich, buttery taste and ensures each layer stays tender.
- Gentle Rolling: Roll each wedge from the wide end gently to avoid flattening the dough, which helps retain the airy texture.
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Rising Time | Total Time |
| 20 min | 10-15 min | 1 hr 30 min | 2 hrs |
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits (Per Roll)
Each homemade sweet dinner roll is a satisfying addition to any meal. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per roll:
| Nutritional Info | Per Roll (1 serving) |
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
Health Benefits:
- Energy Boost: The carbohydrates in these rolls provide a quick energy source.
- Protein for Muscle Repair: A small amount of protein aids muscle repair, especially helpful after exercise.
- Fiber for Digestion: Fiber supports digestive health and helps you feel fuller for longer.
- Good Fats: The butter in the rolls contains healthy fats, contributing to essential cellular functions.
- Low Sodium: Compared to store-bought rolls, this recipe keeps sodium low, which benefits heart health.
Author’s Notes and Recommendations
Creating homemade sweet dinner rolls is enjoyable and adds warmth and flavor to any meal. Here are a few tips I’ve found useful:
- Best Rising Conditions: If your kitchen is cold, preheat the oven to its lowest setting, turn it off, and let the dough rise inside with the door slightly ajar.
- Adding Flavor: To add extra sweetness, brush the rolls with honey butter once they’re out of the oven.
- Versatility: These rolls are versatile and can be made ahead and frozen. Defrost and warm up before serving for fresh-tasting rolls every time.
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality butter and fresh yeast ensures the best texture and flavor in each roll.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make these rolls without a bread machine?
You can mix and knead the dough by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Q2: Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Q3: Why are my rolls dense?
Dense rolls may result from under-kneading or needing more time for the dough to rise fully. Ensure the yeast is fresh and active.
Q4: Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, let the rolls cool completely after baking, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this recipe, try these other delicious bread recipes:
- Classic Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls that pair perfectly with any meal.
- Garlic Butter Knots: A savory twist on dinner rolls with a garlic butter glaze.
- Honey Wheat Rolls: A hearty, slightly sweet roll with the goodness of whole wheat.
More Inspiration and Toppings
To elevate your rolls, consider these topping ideas:
- Honey Butter Glaze: Brush honey and melted butter on top after baking.
- Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle: Add a sweet twist by sprinkling cinnamon and sugar on the dough before rolling.
- Cheese and Herb Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheese and fresh herbs like rosemary for a savory finish.
Enjoy Baking and Tasting
Enjoy baking while savoring each bite of these Homemade Sweet Dinner Rolls!
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