Bread rolls are a timeless favorite, perfect for every meal from breakfast to dinner. They pair wonderfully with soups, salads, and main courses, or serve as a delightful snack on their own.

Making bread rolls at home might seem daunting, but with this easy recipe, you’ll master the art of baking fresh, fluffy rolls with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the world of homemade bread rolls and transform your kitchen into a bakery.

Why Homemade Bread Rolls?

Store-bought bread rolls can be convenient, but they often lack the warmth, flavor, and texture of homemade ones. When you bake bread rolls at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring they are fresh and free from preservatives. Plus, the satisfaction of pulling a tray of golden, steaming rolls from your oven is incomparable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure of your bread rolls.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances flavor.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, making the rolls light and fluffy.
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C): Activates the yeast.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness to the dough.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Creating a well in the center of the flour mixture allows for easy incorporation of the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg into the well of the flour mixture. Using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should start coming together and pulling away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it by hand for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5-6 minutes. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat the top. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by pulling the edges under and pinching them together at the bottom. Place the rolls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they double in size. This second rise will ensure that your rolls are light and fluffy.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is hot enough to bake the rolls evenly and give them a golden-brown crust.

Step 9: Bake the Rolls

Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If desired, brush the tops with a little melted butter during the last few minutes of baking for an extra shiny finish.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter, jam, or any of your favorite spreads.

Tips for Perfect Bread Rolls

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for the flour to ensure consistency.
• Warm Environment for Rising: If your kitchen is cool, place the dough in a slightly warm (but turned off) oven to rise.
• Check Dough Consistency: Dough should be soft and elastic, not too dry or too sticky.
• Don’t Skip the Kneading: Proper kneading develops gluten, essential for fluffy rolls.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add herbs, garlic, cheese, or seeds to the dough for variety.
• Storing and Reheating
• If you have leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw them at room temperature and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Baking bread rolls at home is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results. With this easy recipe, you’ll enjoy fresh, homemade rolls that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these step-by-step instructions will guide you to success. So, roll up your sleeves and start baking – your taste buds will thank you!