45-Minute Dinner Rolls: Soft, Fluffy, and Perfectly Golden

There’s something special about homemade dinner rolls—soft, fluffy, and fresh out of the oven. These 45-Minute Dinner Rolls are incredibly quick to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute dinners or when you’re craving the warm aroma of fresh bread but don’t have hours to wait. With a soft, buttery interior and a golden, slightly crisp crust, these rolls are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love These Dinner Rolls:

• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, they take just 45 minutes!
• Soft and Fluffy: The perfect texture to accompany any meal.
• No Kneading Required: With this recipe, you don’t need to spend time kneading the dough, making it much easier than traditional bread-making.

Let’s dive into the recipe so you can enjoy these warm, buttery rolls in no time!

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup melted butter (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (more for dusting)
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and stir gently. Let it sit for 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture and stir until everything is well incorporated.
2. Gradually add the flour, starting with 3 cups. Stir until the dough comes together, and then transfer it onto a lightly floured surface.
3. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it forms a soft, slightly tacky dough. You don’t need to knead the dough; just bring it together with your hands.

Step 3: Shape the rolls

1. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them in a grid-like pattern (close enough that they touch).

Step 4: Let the dough rise

1. Cover the baking dish with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the rolls rise in a warm place for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up and are touching each other.

Step 5: Bake the rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. If desired, brush the tops of the rolls with an egg wash (beat the egg with a tablespoon of water and gently brush it over the dough).
3. Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy!

1. Remove the rolls from the oven and brush them with a little more melted butter for a rich finish.
2. Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy them warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.

Chef’s Tip:

For extra flavor, you can mix some garlic powder or fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) into the dough before baking. This adds a delightful savory twist that pairs wonderfully with everything from soups to roasted meats.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. It does not need to be proofed in warm water, so you can add it directly to the dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe as directed.

2. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! If you want to make them in advance, you can shape the rolls and place them in the greased baking dish, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure they have time to rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

3. How can I store leftover rolls?
Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warm.

4. Can I add other ingredients like cheese or herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! You can add shredded cheese, garlic, or fresh herbs to the dough to customize the flavor. Just be sure not to overload the dough with extra ingredients, as it may affect the rise.

These 45-Minute Dinner Rolls are a perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a simple weeknight meal. With their soft, buttery texture and golden crust, they’re sure to be a hit at the table. Happy baking!