Sweet Dinner Rolls Recipe

Warm milk: Provides the necessary liquid to form the dough and activates the yeast.

White sugar: Adds sweetness to the rolls and helps feed the yeast.

Active dry yeast: Leavens the dough, making it rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.

Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough together.

Butter: Adds flavor and tenderness to the rolls.

Bread flour: Provides the necessary structure and texture for the rolls.

When combining the warm milk and sugar in the first step, ensure the milk is not too hot, as this can kill the yeast. Aim for a temperature around 110°F (43°C). This will help the yeast activate properly, resulting in a better rise for your dough.

• warm milk - Substitute with warm almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar texture and moisture content, making it a good dairy-free alternative.

• white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and helps with browning, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not require proofing, making the process quicker.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar flavor profile.

• large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water) is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, making it a suitable dairy-free option.

• bread flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used in the same quantity, though the rolls may be slightly less chewy.

• Allow the sweet dinner rolls to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the rolls soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the cooled rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their softness, you can add a slice of apple or a piece of bread inside the container to help retain moisture.

• If you need to store the rolls for a longer period, freezing is the best option. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped rolls in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• When you're ready to enjoy the frozen rolls, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. For a quicker option, you can microwave each roll on a low setting for 10-15 seconds.

• To refresh the rolls and restore their just-baked texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed rolls on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat in the oven for about 10 minutes or until they are warm and soft.

• If you prefer a crispier exterior, remove the foil during the last few minutes of reheating. You can also brush the tops with a bit of melted butter before reheating for an extra touch of flavor and shine.

• For an added twist, consider sprinkling the rolls with a bit of sea salt or herbs before reheating to enhance their flavor profile.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the sweet dinner rolls in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

• For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place the sweet dinner rolls on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check for warmth and add more time if necessary, but be cautious not to overheat, as they can become chewy.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the sweet dinner rolls in foil and place them inside. Heat for about 10 minutes, checking to ensure they are warmed through.

• For a stovetop method, use a skillet over medium-low heat. Lightly butter the skillet and place the sweet dinner rolls in it. Cover with a lid and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the sweet dinner rolls in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the warm milk and sugar, and to mix the dough ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the milk, flour, and other ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring smaller quantities like sugar, yeast, and salt.

• Whisk: Useful for mixing the milk and sugar together and for beating the egg.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing the dough before kneading.

• Floured surface: A clean, flat area dusted with flour to prevent the dough from sticking while kneading.

• Dough scraper: Handy for dividing the dough into equal pieces.

• Greased bowl: Used to place the dough in for its first rise, ensuring it doesn’t stick.

• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises, keeping it warm and moist.

• Baking sheet: Greased to prevent the rolls from sticking while baking.

• Oven: Preheated to 375°F (190°C) for baking the rolls.

• Wire racks: For cooling the rolls once they are baked.

• Pastry brush: Optional, for brushing melted butter on the rolls after baking for extra flavor and shine.

Warm ingredients: Ensure milk and butter are at room temperature to speed up mixing and rising times.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment can save time on kneading.

Proof in the oven: Use your oven's proofing setting or preheat it to the lowest temperature, then turn it off and let the dough rise inside.

Divide with a bench scraper: Use a bench scraper to quickly and evenly divide the dough into 12 pieces.

Pre-grease the baking sheet: Grease the baking sheet while the dough is rising to save time later.