Description
These soft and buttery homemade rolls are perfect for any meal, offering a tender texture and rich flavor. Made from simple ingredients, they are kneaded, allowed to rise twice, and baked to golden perfection. Ideal to serve warm with soups, coffee, or tea.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 teaspoons yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups warm milk
- 1/4 cup olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 eggs
For Egg Wash
- 1 egg white
- 2 tablespoons water
For Finishing
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing after baking)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a bowl, combine the yeast and sugar. Add the warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix wet ingredients: Add the oil, salt, and eggs to the yeast mixture, stirring well to combine all the wet components uniformly.
- Add flour and knead: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop the gluten texture.
- First rise: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in a warm area. Let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size, which makes the rolls airy.
- Divide and shape: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently, divide it into 24 equal portions, and roll each into a smooth ball to ensure even baking.
- Second rise: Arrange the dough balls in a greased baking pan, cover them, and allow to rise again for 30 minutes to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
- Preheat oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the rolls finish their second rise.
- Apply egg wash: Mix the egg white with water and brush over the tops of the rolls to create a golden, shiny crust during baking.
- Bake: Place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top, demonstrating they are fully cooked.
- Brush with butter: Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter, adding richness and a glossy finish.
- Serve: Best enjoyed warm alongside your favorite soup, coffee, or tea for a comforting experience.
Notes
- Use warm milk (about 110°F/43°C) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or any neutral oil for different flavor nuances.
- For a softer crust, brush melted butter once the rolls come out of the oven; for a shinier exterior, the egg wash is essential.
- Ensure the dough rises in a draft-free, warm spot to facilitate proper fermentation.
- These rolls freeze well; thaw and warm before serving.
