Step 1: Prepare the Yeast
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and salt.
- Add Yeast Mixture: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the butter and egg mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or a dough hook until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- First Rise: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
- Punch Down: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface.
- Divide and Shape: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (for larger rolls) or 16 pieces (for smaller rolls). Shape each piece into a ball by rolling it between your palms.
- Arrange in Pan: Place the shaped dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they puff up and fill the pan.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Brush with Butter: Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter. For an extra touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top if desired.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool: Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, jam, or your favorite spreads.
Tips for Success
- Flour Measurement: When measuring flour, avoid packing it into the cup. Instead, spoon it into the cup and level it off with a knife for more accurate measurements.
- Dough Consistency: If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour during kneading. If it’s too dry, add a bit more milk, a tablespoon at a time.
- Second Rise: For softer rolls, ensure the second rise is adequately performed. The rolls will be fluffier with enough resting time.
These Soft Dinner Rolls are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves homemade bread. They’re soft, buttery, and perfect for soaking up gravy or as a base for sliders. Enjoy the delightful taste and texture of these rolls at your next meal!