Few things in life are as comforting as the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. Today, we’re diving into the art of making butter bread rolls that are so fluffy, so buttery, they’ll disappear before they even cool down. Let’s get baking!
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of warm milk and melted butter creates a tender crumb that’s irresistible.
- A touch of sugar not only feeds the yeast but also adds a slight sweetness that complements the butter perfectly.
- Allowing the dough to rise twice ensures these rolls are light and airy.
- Brushing with melted butter right out of the oven gives them a glossy, mouth-watering finish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg
Equipment Needed
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is your yeast waking up and getting ready to make your dough rise beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the flour, melted butter, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook, mix on low speed until the ingredients come together, then increase to medium speed for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This is when the magic happens, and your dough gets all puffy and ready to shape.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each for expansion.
Step 5: Second Rise and Bake
Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter immediately after baking for that irresistible shine.
Tips and Tricks
For the fluffiest rolls, make sure your milk is the right temperature—too hot, and you’ll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate. If you’re short on time, you can let the dough rise in a slightly warmed oven to speed up the process. Always use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of your rolls. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese-Stuffed Rolls: Insert a cube of your favorite cheese into each roll before baking for a gooey surprise.
- Garlic Butter Rolls: Mix minced garlic into the melted butter before brushing for a savory twist.
- Sweet Cinnamon Rolls: Add a cinnamon-sugar filling and a cream cheese frosting for a dessert version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the dough up to the first rise, then punch it down and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature, shape, and proceed with the second rise and baking.
Why didn’t my rolls rise? This could be due to old yeast or milk that was too hot or too cold. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and use a thermometer to ensure the milk is just right.
Can I freeze these rolls? Yes, once baked and cooled, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.
Summary
These butter bread rolls are the perfect blend of fluffy texture and rich, buttery flavor, making them a hit for any meal. With a few simple ingredients and some patience for the dough to rise, you’ll have a batch of golden, delicious rolls ready to enjoy.