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The Best Soft, Buttery Dinner Rolls (Easy Recipe)

Close-up of golden brown, buttery soft rolls baked together in a glass dish, glistening with a sweet glaze.

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Make unbelievably soft, fluffy homemade dinner rolls that taste better than store-bought. This easy yeast rolls recipe is perfect for family meals or holidays like Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 teaspoon for yeast
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for brushing
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • For topping: 4 tablespoons melted butter mixed with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and the yeast. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: Add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
  3. Add flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add small amounts of flour if the dough is too sticky.
  5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  6. Shape the rolls: Gently punch down the dough. Divide the dough into 12 or 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
  7. Second rise: Arrange the dough balls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving a small space between them. Cover and let rise again in a warm place for 30 to 45 minutes, or until puffy.
  8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
  9. Brush with butter: Immediately after removing the rolls from the oven, brush the tops generously with the reserved melted butter mixture (plain or garlic butter).
  10. Serve warm: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving warm as a side dish.

Notes

  • For a quick rise, place the covered dough in an oven that has been turned off but still retains residual warmth.
  • If you want Texas Roadhouse Rolls copycat texture, brush the tops with melted butter immediately after baking.
  • These rolls freeze well after baking; cool completely, place in a freezer bag, and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

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