Ingredients

For the Rolls:

• All-Purpose Flour: 4 cups
• Sugar: 1/4 cup
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Instant Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet)
• Milk: 1 cup, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
• Egg: 1 large
• Butter: 1/2 cup, melted (plus more for brushing)

For the Cinnamon Butter:

• Butter: 1/2 cup, softened
• Powdered Sugar: 1 cup
• Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
• Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Stir to evenly distribute the ingredients.
2. Add the warmed milk, egg, and melted butter to the flour mixture. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Rolls

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
2. Divide the dough into 12-16 equal portions, depending on the size of rolls you prefer.
3. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll for even rising.
4. Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise again in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve doubled in size.

Step 3: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Once the rolls have risen, brush the tops with melted butter for a golden, shiny finish.
3. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.
4. Remove the rolls from the oven and brush with a bit more melted butter for extra richness.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Butter

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully combined and fluffy.
3. Transfer the cinnamon butter to a small serving dish and set aside.

Step 5: Serve

• Serve the warm rolls with a generous dollop of cinnamon butter on the side. These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can also be reheated for later enjoyment.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per roll with cinnamon butter, based on 12 rolls)

• Calories: 230 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 7g
• Sodium: 200mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
A: Yes, if using active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warmed milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. Then, proceed with the recipe as directed.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight after the first rise. Let the dough come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking.

Q: What can I use instead of powdered sugar in the cinnamon butter?
A: You can use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener. Just start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

Q: Can I add herbs to the dough for a savory version?
A: Absolutely! Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder can be added for a savory twist. Just fold them in after the first rise.

Tips for Making Perfect Dinner Rolls

• Warm Milk Temperature: Be sure the milk is warmed to around 110°F (43°C). Too hot, and it could kill the yeast; too cold, and the yeast may not activate fully.
• Kneading the Dough: Kneading is essential to develop the dough’s gluten structure, giving the rolls their soft, chewy texture. If kneading by hand, you’ll know the dough is ready when it feels smooth and elastic.
• Proofing: To speed up the proofing process, place the covered dough in a warm spot, such as near a warm oven or even in a turned-off microwave.
• Shape Consistently: For uniform rolls, weigh the dough portions or use a measuring cup to divide the dough evenly before rolling.
• Brush with Butter: Brushing the tops with melted butter before and after baking not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the rolls soft and moist.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to refresh them.
• Freezing: These rolls freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating from Frozen: When ready to enjoy, thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Cinnamon Butter Storage: The cinnamon butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Soft Dinner Rolls with Cinnamon Butter are the perfect way to elevate a meal. These tender, pillowy rolls are delicious on their own but take on a whole new level of flavor with the sweet and spiced cinnamon butter. This recipe is straightforward and rewarding, making it easy to bring homemade bread to the table even if you’re a beginner baker. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or reheated as leftovers, these rolls are guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Take the time to make these rolls, and you’ll find they’re well worth the effort. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread and the delightful taste of homemade cinnamon butter. Whether it’s a holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner, these rolls are sure to make the occasion extra special.