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Fluffy Make-Ahead Dinner Rolls

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These fluffy make-ahead dinner rolls rise overnight for a soft, airy texture and perfect golden crust, ideal for busy evenings and special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour, preferably unbleached
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet), fresh if possible
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
  • 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, melted plus extra for brushing
  • 1 large egg, room temperature

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (110°F/43°C) with sugar and active dry yeast. Stir gently, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  3. Add wet ingredients: Pour the foamy yeast mixture into the flour, add melted butter and the egg. Mix on low speed or stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough: Knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with dough hook for 5-6 minutes. Dough should be tacky but not sticky.
  5. First rise: Lightly oil a large bowl and place dough inside, turning once to coat. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or damp towel and refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours).
  6. Shape the rolls: Remove dough from fridge and let warm to room temperature for about 45 minutes. Punch down gently and divide into 12 equal pieces (~70g or 2.5 oz each). Shape into smooth balls and place close together in greased baking dish.
  7. Second rise: Cover with towel and let rolls rise 1 to 1.5 hours at room temperature until puffy and nearly doubled.
  8. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush rolls with melted butter and bake 18-22 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  9. Final touch: Brush warm rolls with more melted butter right out of the oven for shiny crust and rich flavor.

Notes

Use warm milk at about 110°F to activate yeast properly. The slow, cold rise overnight develops flavor and texture. Knead dough until smooth and elastic but avoid adding too much flour to keep rolls fluffy. Brush with butter before and after baking for golden crust. If kitchen is cool, second rise may take longer. For dairy-free, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: dinner rolls, make-ahead rolls, overnight rising, fluffy rolls, homemade bread, easy bread recipe

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/fluffy-make-ahead-dinner-rolls-recipe-perfect-for-overnight-rising/