Classic Holiday Dinner Rolls (Buttery, Fluffy & Festive)
Tender, enriched rolls made with wheat flour and real butter, baked golden and brushed with more butter on top. Ideal for soaking up gravies, spreading with herbed butters, or enjoying warm from the oven.
Servings 12 Makes 12 large or 16 medium rolls Baked in a 9×13” pan
Calories 160kcal
Ingredients
- Dough
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour divided
- 2¼ tsp 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ¾ cup whole milk warm (~100–110°F)
- ¼ cup water warm
- 1 large egg room temp
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
- Finishing
- 2 tbsp butter melted (for brushing)
- Optional: flaky salt rosemary, or poppy seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar (or honey), and yeast. Stir and let sit 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
- Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter.
- Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until combined.
- Add remaining flour 1 tbsp at a time until a soft, slightly tacky dough forms. Knead 6–8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a mixer.
- Step 3: First Rise
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 60–75 minutes, until doubled.
- Step 4: Shape Rolls
- Punch down dough and divide into 12–16 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13” pan, spaced evenly.
- Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
- Step 5: Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (conventional).
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden on top.
- Immediately brush with melted butter while still warm.
- Optionally sprinkle with flaky salt, herbs, or seeds.
Notes
Nutrition (per medium roll)
- Calories: ~160
- Fat: 6 g
-
Carbs: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
✨ Tips & Variations
- Want a richer dough? Use half cream, half milk
- For herb butter rolls, mix rosemary or sage into melted butter before brushing
- Add roasted garlic or shredded cheese to the dough for a savory twist
- Make-ahead: Shape and refrigerate before final rise. Let warm and rise before baking
🛡️ Consumer Safety Note
⚠️ Contains gluten, dairy, eggs. Always label clearly for allergens if serving to guests. Ensure yeast is not expired and liquids are warm, not hot, to activate properly.
