Easy 4 Ingredient Bread Rolls Recipe

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  • February 26, 2026

🥖 Easy 4 Ingredient Bread Rolls

Soft • Fluffy • No Eggs • No Butter

As a chef who loves warm bread straight from the oven, I can promise you — these rolls are pure magic. With just four pantry staples, you’ll get golden, pillowy bread that melts in your mouth.

No complicated steps. No special tools. Just simple baking done right.


✨ Why You’ll Love These Rolls

  • Only 4 ingredients – No oil, eggs, or butter

  • Soft & fluffy texture – Warm milk + yeast creates a tender crumb

  • Beginner-friendly – Simple method, minimal kneading

  • Versatile – Perfect plain or customized

  • Perfect for any meal – Dinner, breakfast, sandwiches, or snacks


📝 Ingredients

  • 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (100–110°F / 38–43°C)

  • 2¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast

  • 1 tbsp sugar


👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Tip: Milk should be warm, not hot.


2️⃣ Add Flour & Knead

Gradually stir in flour.
Knead on a floured surface for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

The dough should be soft but not sticky. Add 1 tablespoon flour if needed.


3️⃣ First Rise

Place dough in a lightly greased bowl.
Cover and let rise 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Best spot: warm, draft-free area.


4️⃣ Shape the Rolls

Punch down gently.
Divide into 8–10 equal pieces and shape into balls.
Place on parchment-lined tray.

Cover and let rise 30 minutes.


5️⃣ Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake 15–18 minutes until golden brown.

Cool slightly before serving.
Optional: Brush tops with melted butter for shine.


🥯 Serving Ideas

  • With soups or stews

  • As sandwich sliders

  • Warm with butter and jam

  • Alongside grilled meats or rice dishes

  • Split with peanut butter & banana


🧀 Easy Customizations

  • Cheesy rolls: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella

  • Garlic herb: Mix herbs into flour or brush with garlic butter

  • Sweet version: Add 2 tbsp sugar + honey glaze

  • Seeded tops: Sesame, poppy, or sunflower seeds


🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Room temp: Airtight container up to 3 days

  • Reheat: 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes

  • Freeze: Up to 2 months; thaw and warm before serving

  • Overnight dough: Refrigerate after first rise, bring to room temp before shaping


🍽 Creative Ways to Use Leftovers

  • Mini sliders

  • Breakfast egg-stuffed rolls

  • Garlic bread bites

  • Berry & cream cheese buns

  • French toast rolls


❓ FAQ

Can I use bread flour?
Yes. It gives a slightly chewier texture.

Active dry yeast instead of instant?
Yes. Activate in warm milk 10 minutes first.

How do I know they’re done?
Golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped. Internal temp: 190°F (88°C).

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. This dough scales perfectly.

Why didn’t my rolls rise?
Yeast may be expired or liquid too hot. Also ensure a warm rising spot.


🥖 Final Tip

Every baker needs a reliable go-to dough.
One bowl. Four ingredients. Endless possibilities.