Sweet dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and lightly sweet bread rolls that melt in your mouth. With their golden-brown tops and tender interior, these rolls are perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or even breakfast with butter and jam. Homemade sweet dinner rolls are far superior to store-bought ones, offering fresh flavor, rich texture, and complete control over ingredients.
This recipe is simple, reliable, and ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to make bakery-style sweet dinner rolls right in your own kitchen.
What Are Sweet Dinner Rolls?
Sweet dinner rolls are yeast-based bread rolls enriched with milk, butter, eggs, and sugar. Unlike plain bread rolls, they have a slightly sweet taste and a very soft crumb. They are commonly served warm and brushed with butter, making them a comforting and versatile side dish.
These rolls pair beautifully with soups, roasted meats, holiday spreads, or can be enjoyed on their own.
Ingredients
To make soft and fluffy sweet dinner rolls, you will need the following ingredients:
½ cup (125 ml) whole milk
¾ cup (150 g / 3 oz) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons (56.8 g) butter, melted
2 packages active dry yeast
2 large eggs
All-purpose flour (as needed for dough consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Warm the milk slightly until it is lukewarm, not hot. Add the yeast and a small amount of sugar, then let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. This step activates the yeast and ensures the rolls will rise properly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, salt, melted butter, and eggs. Mix well. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir until combined.
Gradually add all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and soft. Proper kneading helps create a light and fluffy texture.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release excess air. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into smooth balls.
Arrange the dough balls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter for extra softness and shine. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Dinner Rolls
Use lukewarm milk, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
Knead the dough well to achieve a soft and fluffy texture.
Do not overbake, as this can dry out the rolls.
Brushing butter on hot rolls keeps them soft for longer.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet dinner rolls are best served warm. They can be enjoyed with butter, honey, or jam. These rolls also pair wonderfully with soups, stews, roasted chicken, or festive meals. Leftover rolls can be used for sliders or mini sandwiches.
Storage Instructions
Store sweet dinner rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
Refrigerate for up to five days.
Freeze baked rolls for up to two months. Reheat before serving for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be used. You can skip the activation step and mix it directly with dry ingredients.
Why didn’t my rolls rise properly?
This usually happens if the yeast is old or the milk was too hot or too cold. Always check yeast freshness and temperature.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can slightly reduce the sugar, but keep in mind that sugar adds softness and flavor.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and bake the rolls the next day.
How do I make the rolls extra soft?
Brushing butter on top and avoiding overbaking are the key steps for extra-soft rolls.
Final Thoughts
Sweet dinner rolls are a comforting and crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. With their soft texture, light sweetness, and buttery flavor, these homemade rolls are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Once you try them fresh from the oven, you may never go back to store-bought rolls again.
