Soft, Buttery, and Irresistible!
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, and these Sweet Dinner Rolls are no exception. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, looking for the perfect side for a family meal, or just craving something warm and comforting, these soft, buttery rolls are a must-try.
With a golden crust and a light, fluffy interior, these rolls strike the perfect balance between sweetness and richness. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make—especially if you have a bread machine to do the heavy lifting!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With the help of a bread machine, the dough comes together effortlessly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a regular weeknight dinner, these rolls will be a hit.
- Soft and Buttery Goodness: The added butter creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible.
- Versatile: Serve them with dinner, use them as a sandwich bun, or enjoy them as a snack with jam.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- ½ cup warm milk
- ⅓ cup butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
- ¼ cup butter, softened (for spreading)
Equipment Needed
- Bread machine (optional, but helpful)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
- Baking sheet
- Kitchen towel
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Place the water, milk, ⅓ cup butter, egg, flour, sugar, salt, and yeast into the pan of a bread machine in the order listed. If your bread machine manufacturer suggests a different order, follow their instructions. Select the Dough/Knead and First Rise Cycle and press start.
If you don’t have a bread machine, you can mix the ingredients in a large bowl and knead the dough by hand for about 10 minutes, then let it rise until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Rolls
Once the dough cycle finishes, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into two equal portions and roll each into a 12-inch circle. Spread the ¼ cup of softened butter over each circle, then cut each into 8 equal wedges using a pizza cutter.
3. Roll and Rise
Starting at the wide end of each wedge, roll them tightly into crescent shapes. Place them point side down on an ungreased baking sheet. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
4. Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the rolls for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and brush with additional butter for extra softness and flavor.
Tips and Variations
- Make-Ahead Dough: Prepare the dough the night before, shape the rolls, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.
- Garlic Butter Version: Brush the rolls with melted garlic butter before baking for a savory twist.
- Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use plant-based milk and margarine instead of butter.
How to Store Leftovers
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Fridge: Keep in a sealed bag for up to 5 days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze baked rolls in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
What to Serve with Sweet Dinner Rolls
These soft, buttery rolls pair well with a variety of meals:
- Soups and Stews: Perfect for dipping into hearty soups like chicken noodle or beef stew.
- Holiday Dinners: A must-have side for Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas ham.
- Breakfast: Serve with jam, honey, or scrambled eggs for a delicious start to the day.
- Sandwiches: Slice them in half and add turkey, ham, or cheese for a quick and tasty slider.
FAQs
Can I Make These Without a Bread Machine?
Yes! You can mix the ingredients by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Knead for about 10 minutes, then let the dough rise until doubled before proceeding with the recipe.
How Do I Know When the Rolls Are Done Baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top. You can also tap the bottom of a roll—if it sounds hollow, they’re done!
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Yes! If using instant yeast, you can skip the step of dissolving it in warm liquid. Simply mix it in with the dry ingredients and proceed as usual.
What’s the Best Way to Keep Rolls Soft?
Brushing them with melted butter after baking helps keep them soft. Also, storing them in an airtight container will prevent them from drying out.
Final Thoughts
These Sweet Dinner Rolls are the ultimate comfort food—fluffy, buttery, and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to impress!
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