Fluffy Dinner Rolls

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Golden, buttery, and impossibly soft—these fluffy dinner rolls are the ultimate comfort food companion to any meal. Whether you’re pairing them with a hearty roast, dipping them in rich soups, or enjoying one warm with a smear of butter, they are irresistibly light and pillow-like. Fresh out of the oven, the aroma alone is enough to make mouths water.

Perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or even a weeknight indulgence, these rolls are a reliable crowd-pleaser. Their pillowy texture comes from just the right amount of kneading and proofing, and a simple brushing of butter gives them that classic glossy finish. This recipe is easy enough for beginner bakers but produces bakery-style results every time.

What Kind of Flour Should I Use for Fluffy Dinner Rolls?

Bread flour works wonders here due to its higher protein content, which helps develop more gluten and gives the rolls their chewy, elastic structure. All-purpose flour can be used in a pinch but may result in slightly less rise and structure. For best results, stick to bread flour.

Ingredients for the Fluffy Dinner Rolls

Bread Flour – Provides the ideal gluten structure for soft and stretchy dough.

Whole Milk – Adds richness and a tender crumb. Using warm milk also helps activate the yeast.

Active Dry Yeast – Essential for that beautiful rise. Make sure it’s fresh and proofed properly.

Granulated Sugar – A touch of sweetness feeds the yeast and balances the flavor.

Salt – Brings out the flavor of all the ingredients.

Eggs – Adds richness, color, and structure to the dough.

Unsalted Butter – Mixed into the dough and brushed on top, butter gives flavor and softness.


How To Make the Fluffy Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk (around 110°F), sugar, and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the bread flour, salt, and eggs. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add softened butter and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough gently and divide it into equal portions (usually 12-16). Shape each into a smooth ball and place in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover and let the shaped rolls rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.

Step 6: Bake and Butter

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Immediately brush the tops with melted butter for a glossy, flavorful finish.

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How to Serve and Store Fluffy Dinner Rolls

Serve these rolls warm from the oven with a pat of butter, or use them to mop up gravies and sauces. They also make excellent mini sandwich buns for leftovers.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. They also freeze beautifully—just thaw and reheat as needed.

What to Serve With Fluffy Dinner Rolls?

Creamy Soups

Perfect for dunking into a rich bowl of soup like Cheeseburger Soup or Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup.

Holiday Roasts

Serve them alongside roast turkey, ham, or beef for your holiday dinners.

Hearty Casseroles

Pair with baked dishes like Hashbrown Chicken Casserole or Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole.

Breakfast Sandwiches

Slice them open and fill with eggs, cheese, and bacon for a fluffy morning treat.

Salads

Balance your plate with something fresh, like this Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes.


Want More Bread Ideas?

If you love these fluffy dinner rolls, here are more savory bakes to explore:


Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe some garlic butter or a sprinkle of herbs? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.


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Fluffy Dinner Rolls

Fluffy Dinner Rolls


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 rolls
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Soft, buttery, and perfectly golden, these Fluffy Dinner Rolls are a must-have for any meal—from quick breakfasts to hearty dinners. Their light, airy texture and rich, buttery flavor make them the perfect addition to holiday feasts or casual weeknight dinners. Whether you’re dipping them into soups, making mini sandwiches, or enjoying one warm with a slather of butter, these homemade rolls hit the spot. This easy recipe is a fantastic go-to for any home cook looking to master a fluffy, bakery-style roll at home. Perfect for holiday meals, easy dinners, potlucks, or breakfast ideas, this simple, satisfying bake fits right into your rotation of food ideas and go-to easy recipes.


Ingredients

1 cup warm whole milk

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

1/4 cup granulated sugar

3 1/2 cups bread flour

1 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (plus more for brushing)


Instructions

1. Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and eggs. Add yeast mixture and mix to form dough.

3. Add butter and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

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

5. Punch down dough, divide into 12–16 portions, and shape into balls.

6. Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes.

7. Preheat oven to 375°F and bake rolls for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.

8. Brush immediately with melted butter before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or herbs on top before baking.

Don’t skip the second rise—it’s what gives the rolls their airy texture.

  • Prep Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: fluffy dinner rolls, bread rolls, easy recipe, dinner ideas, comfort food

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