Soft Buttery Bread Rolls

These Soft Buttery Bread Rolls are fluffy, tender, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish for dinner, as a base for sandwiches, or simply enjoyed with a spread of butter, these rolls are incredibly versatile and easy to make. The combination of milk, warm water, and butter ensures a soft and rich texture, while the sugar adds a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Rest Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including proofing)
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 200 milliliters (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) warm water
  • 10 grams (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
  • 4 teaspoons (16 g) sugar
  • 60 milliliters (1/4 cup) vegetable oil
  • 200 milliliters (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 600 grams (4 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 50 grams (1/3 cup) additional flour, if needed
  • 100 grams (7 tbsp) butter, melted

Directions

  1. Activate the Yeast:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
    • Add vegetable oil, milk, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.
  3. Form the Dough:
    • Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, mixing with a spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms.
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, adding the additional flour if needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise:
    • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape the Rolls:
    • Punch down the dough and divide it into 12–16 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
    • Place the dough balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between them for expansion.
  6. Second Rise:
    • Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  7. Bake the Rolls:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Brush the rolls with melted butter and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
  8. Finish and Serve:
    • Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with more melted butter for extra softness and flavor.
    • Let the rolls cool slightly before serving warm.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a side with soups, stews, or pasta dishes.
  • Use as a base for sliders, sandwiches, or burgers.
  • Enjoy with butter, jam, or honey for breakfast or a snack.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the water is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast.
  • Do not add too much additional flour, as the dough should remain soft and slightly sticky for fluffy rolls.
  • For extra flavor, add garlic powder or herbs to the melted butter before brushing the rolls.

Nutritional Benefits

  • These rolls are a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy.
  • The milk and butter add calcium and essential fats.

Dietary Information

  • Can be made dairy-free by substituting milk with plant-based milk and butter with a dairy-free alternative.

Nutritional Facts (Per Roll, Approx. 12 Rolls)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g

Storage

  • Store rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for best texture.
  • Freeze rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat when needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
  • Soft, fluffy texture and buttery flavor that’s irresistible.
  • Perfect for any occasion, from everyday meals to special gatherings.
  • Versatile and customizable with herbs, seeds, or cheese.

Conclusion
These Soft Buttery Bread Rolls are a timeless recipe that delivers warm, homemade comfort in every bite. With their tender texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated, these rolls are always a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
    Yes, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water with sugar and let it sit for 10 minutes before proceeding.
  2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
    Yes, but replace only half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to maintain the soft texture.
  3. How can I make these rolls dairy-free?
    Substitute milk with almond, oat, or soy milk and use vegan butter.
  4. What can I add to the rolls for extra flavor?
    Add chopped herbs, garlic powder, or shredded cheese to the dough.
  5. How do I ensure the rolls are fluffy?
    Don’t overwork the dough and allow sufficient time for both rises.
  6. Can I refrigerate the dough overnight?
    Yes, cover and refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
  7. What’s the best way to reheat these rolls?
    Wrap in foil and heat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds.
  8. Can I make smaller rolls?
    Yes, divide the dough into more portions and adjust the baking time to 12–15 minutes.
  9. Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?
    Absolutely! Use the dough hook attachment and knead for 5–7 minutes on medium speed.
  10. What can I do with leftover rolls?
    Use them for breadcrumbs, croutons, or mini sandwiches.