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Tender Cloud-Like Dinner Rolls

tender cloud-like dinner rolls - featured image

These tender, soft dinner rolls melt in your mouth with every bite. Made with simple ingredients and a gentle kneading technique, they are perfect for any occasion and pair well with a variety of meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (one packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (240 ml) warm whole milk (around 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • Optional: melted butter for brushing the tops

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, stir the sugar into warm milk (110°F / 43°C), then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5-7 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine 3 ½ cups (420 grams) of the flour with the salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and the yeast-milk mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until the dough starts to come together. It will be sticky.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, gradually adding the remaining flour as needed, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for 6-8 minutes.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide into 12 equal portions (about 2 oz / 57 grams each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pulling the edges under and pinching the bottom. Arrange the rolls on a greased baking sheet or in a round cake pan, spacing them evenly.
  6. Second rise: Cover the rolls loosely and let them rise again for 30-40 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
  7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter if desired. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown on top and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  8. Cool and enjoy: Let the rolls cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm. Brush again with butter for extra softness and shine.

Notes

Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure milk is about 110°F to activate yeast properly. Knead until dough is smooth but slightly tacky for soft rolls. Do not rush rising times; patience is key for fluffy texture. Brushing rolls with melted butter after baking adds softness and shine. Dough can be refrigerated overnight after first rise for convenience.

Nutrition

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