Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls with Herb Butter

Looking for the perfect side dish to accompany your dinner tonight? These Easy Homemade Dinner Rolls with Herb Butter are guaranteed to impress your family and friends! Soft and fluffy on the inside, with a savory herb butter on top, these rolls are sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, salt, egg, and 2 cups of flour. Mix well.
3. Add the yeast mixture and the remaining flour. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough and shape it into 12 rolls. Place them on a baking sheet and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
7. While the rolls are baking, prepare the herb butter by mixing chopped herbs with melted butter.
8. Brush the herb butter on top of the warm rolls before serving.

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 4g

Popular Questions:

• Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. However, you may need to adjust the quantities and the rising time.

• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it may result in a denser texture.

• Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the rolls after baking. Simply thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven before serving.

• Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

It is recommended to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the recipe, but you can use salted butter if that’s all you have on hand.

• Can I omit the egg?

The egg helps to enrich the dough and create a softer texture, but you can omit it if necessary. Just be aware that the rolls may be slightly less tender.

• How long can I store the rolls?

Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

• Can I add cheese to the herb butter?

Yes, you can add grated cheese to the herb butter for a delicious cheesy flavor.

• Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh, but adjust the quantities accordingly, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

• Can I shape the rolls differently?

You can shape the rolls into different forms like knots or twists for a fun presentation.

• Can I make the dough in advance?

You can prepare the dough in advance, refrigerate it overnight, and let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking the rolls.

Helpful Tips:

• Brush the rolls with additional melted butter after baking for extra richness.
• Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives for varied flavors.
• Serve the rolls warm for the best texture and flavor.
• Add a pinch of garlic powder or Parmesan cheese to the herb butter for extra depth of flavor.
• Double the recipe and freeze half the rolls for quick and easy meals in the future.
• Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the water temperature is between 105-115°F for activating the yeast.
• Let the rolls rise in a warm, draft-free place for optimal results.
• Cover the rolls with a damp towel while rising to prevent them from drying out.
• Serve the rolls with soup or salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Customize the herb butter with your favorite spices and seasonings for a personalized touch.

Expert Secrets:

• For the softest dinner rolls, do not overknead the dough. Stop when it forms a smooth and slightly tacky ball.
• Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before brushing with herb butter to prevent it from melting too quickly.
• Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements of flour to ensure consistent results every time.
• Make an indentation in the center of each roll before baking for a more uniform shape and even rising.
• For a shiny finish, brush the rolls with an egg wash before baking.
• Try incorporating different liquids like milk or buttermilk for richer and more tender dinner rolls.
• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy or losing their texture.
• Play around with adding seeds or nuts to the dough for added crunch and flavor variation.
• To speed up the rising process, place the dough in a warm oven (turned off) to create a cozy environment for yeast activation.
• Share the joy of baking by involving your family or friends in the dough-shaping process for a fun and collaborative experience.