Fluffy Bread Rolls

To start, you need to activate the yeast, which will give the bread its fluffiness.

1. Warm the milk: Heat the milk in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s just warm to the touch (about 110°F). Be careful not to overheat it, as too-hot milk can kill the yeast.
2. Dissolve the sugar: In a small bowl or measuring cup, add the sugar to the warm milk and stir until dissolved. The sugar helps feed the yeast and encourages it to bloom.
3. Add the yeast: Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk mixture. Stir gently to combine, and then set it aside for about 5-10 minutes. The yeast should bubble and foam, which indicates it is active and ready to use. If the yeast does not foam, it may be expired or the milk may have been too hot, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Once the yeast is activated and bubbly, it’s time to combine everything and form your dough.

1. Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a small well in the center of the dry ingredients to add the wet ingredients.
2. Add the wet ingredients: Into the well, pour the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a rough dough begins to form.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic, not sticky. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the rolls dense. If you have a stand mixer, you can use the dough hook attachment to knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on medium speed.

Step 3: First Rise

The first rise allows the dough to double in size, which helps create the light, airy texture in your rolls.

1. Grease the bowl: Coat a large bowl with a thin layer of vegetable oil.
2. Place the dough in the bowl: Place the dough in the oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
3. Let the dough rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) or a sunny spot in the kitchen works well for this step.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into individual rolls.

1. Punch down the dough: After the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles and deflate it. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Divide the dough: Roll the dough into a log and divide it into 12-16 equal portions, depending on how large you want your rolls.
3. Shape the rolls: Take each portion and shape it into a ball by tucking the edges under and rolling it gently between your hands. Place the shaped rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or round cake pan, leaving a little space between each one. The rolls will expand during baking, so don’t worry if they’re not touching initially.

Step 5: Second Rise

Before baking, the rolls need a second rise to ensure they’re soft and fluffy.

1. Cover and let rise: Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until the rolls have puffed up and are touching each other.
2. Preheat the oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Now comes the exciting part—baking the rolls until they’re golden and delicious!

1. Brush with butter: Before placing the rolls in the oven, gently brush the tops with a bit of melted butter for a golden, glossy finish.
2. Bake the rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. The rolls should feel soft when you gently press them and have a slightly golden crust.
3. Optional topping: If you like, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the rolls as soon as they come out of the oven for a touch of savory contrast.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

These rolls are perfect whether you prefer them hot or cold!

1. Serve hot: Serve the rolls immediately while they’re still warm from the oven, with a pat of butter or as an accompaniment to soups, stews, or your favorite dinner.
2. Serve cold: These rolls also taste great at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics or a make-ahead meal. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Fluffy Bread Rolls:

• Don’t rush the rising: The two rises are essential for light, fluffy rolls. Allow enough time for the dough to rise fully in each stage.
• Knead thoroughly: Kneading develops the gluten, which creates structure and elasticity in the rolls, resulting in a soft and airy texture.
• Adjust for altitude or humidity: If you’re baking at a high altitude, or if you’re in a very humid environment, you may need to adjust the amount of flour or water slightly to get the right dough consistency.

Conclusion:

These Fluffy Bread Rolls are the perfect addition to any meal, and their soft, pillowy texture makes them a favorite for both adults and children. Whether served hot straight from the oven, or enjoyed cold with a spread of butter, they are a versatile and comforting choice. With simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have a batch of homemade rolls that will elevate any dinner or snack time. Enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread in your home and relish every soft, buttery bite!