Homemade Soft Bread Rolls

by

Homemade Soft Bread Rolls

There is nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. These Homemade Soft Bread Rolls are incredibly fluffy, lightly sweet, and perfect for breakfasts, dinners, or snack time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is simple, reliable, and produces beautifully soft rolls every single time. With just a handful of basic ingredients and a little easy kneading, you can enjoy bakery-quality rolls right at home.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 egg (for the dough)

  • 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon milk (for the egg wash)

Preparation

1. Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir lightly and allow the mixture to sit for 5–10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy on top. This step helps ensure the yeast is alive and will allow your rolls to rise properly.

2. Make the Dough

Add the flour, melted butter, salt, and egg into the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough begins to form. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.

3. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This helps build the softness and structure of the rolls.

4. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough to release excess air. Divide it into 12–16 equal pieces depending on the size you want. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath. Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them to rise.

5. Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls lightly and let them rise again for 30 minutes. They should puff up noticeably and look pillowy.

6. Prepare the Egg Wash

Whisk together the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of milk. Brush this mixture gently over the tops of the rolls. It helps give them a shiny, golden finish when baked.

7. Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown. If you tap the bottom of a roll and it sounds hollow, they are perfectly done.

8. Cool and Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or store for later—either way, they stay soft and delicious.

Next →