**Introduction:**
Delicious dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and slightly buttery, making them the perfect addition to any meal. Whether served alongside a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, fresh-baked rolls bring warmth and comfort to the table. With a golden crust and tender interior, these homemade rolls are sure to become a family favorite.
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**Origin and Cultural Significance:**
Dinner rolls are a beloved staple worldwide, known by different names and variations in different cultures. From Parker House rolls in the United States to milk bread rolls in Japan, people across the globe appreciate the simple pleasure of fresh-baked bread. Dinner rolls are often associated with festive meals and family gatherings, representing comfort, abundance, and sharing.
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**Ingredients and Quantities:**
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
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**Optional Additions:**
– 1 teaspoon honey for extra sweetness
– 1/4 cup whole-wheat flour for added fiber
– A sprinkle of sea salt on top for a savory touch
– Garlic butter or fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) brushed on top for additional flavor
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**Tips for Success:**
– **Use Warm Milk:** To activate the yeast without killing it, make sure the milk is warm (about 110°F).
– **Properly Knead the Dough:** Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes by hand or about 5 minutes in a stand mixer.
– **Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Spot:** The dough should double in size during the first rise. If your kitchen is cool, place the bowl near a warm oven or cover it with a towel to speed up the process.
– **Brush with Butter Before Baking:** For a golden, soft crust, brush the rolls with melted butter before they go into the oven.
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**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
– Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg, stirring until combined.
– Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a dough forms.
2. **Knead the Dough:**
– Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour as needed.
– Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. **Shape the Rolls:**
– Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
– Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased baking pan, spacing them slightly apart.
4. **Second Rise:**
– Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
5. **Bake:**
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter.
– Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown.
6. **Serve:**
– Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. Brush with additional melted butter if desired for extra softness.
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**Description:**
These dinner rolls are light, fluffy, and have a perfectly golden crust. The dough is soft and slightly sweet, making each roll melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The buttery aroma fills the kitchen as they bake, and each roll pulls apart with a tender crumb—perfect for sopping up sauces, soups, or gravies.
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**Nutritional Information (Per Roll):**
– Calories: ~130
– Protein: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 19g
– Sugars: 3g
– Fat: 4g
– Fiber: 1g
*Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.*
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**Conclusion and Recommendation:**
These dinner rolls are a must-try for anyone who loves homemade bread. They’re easy enough for beginner bakers and impressive enough for special occasions. Their soft texture and mild sweetness make them incredibly versatile, pairing well with almost any meal. Whether served with butter, honey, or a savory spread, these rolls will be a crowd-pleaser.
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**Embracing Healthful Indulgence:**
To make these rolls a bit healthier, try substituting part of the all-purpose flour with whole-wheat flour for extra fiber and nutrients. You can also reduce the sugar slightly, as well as brush them lightly with olive oil instead of butter for a heart-healthier option. With these small adjustments, you can enjoy delicious dinner rolls with a bit of added nutrition, making them an indulgence you can feel good about.
Give these easy, delicious dinner rolls a try for a cozy addition to any meal!