Now, let’s embark on the delightful journey of baking these buttery dinner rolls. Follow these step-by-step instructions carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a pan of warm, fragrant rolls that are sure to impress.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast (If Using Active Dry Yeast)

If you are using active dry yeast, this step is crucial. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (105-115°F or 40-46°C) with a teaspoon of granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and sugar mixture. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use. If using instant yeast, you can skip this step and add the yeast directly to the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining granulated sugar, and salt. Whisking ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing pockets of salt or sugar in your dough. This step is important for consistent texture and flavor throughout your dinner rolls.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the melted unsalted butter, the egg, and the warm milk (with activated yeast, if using active dry yeast, or just warm milk if using instant yeast). If you used active dry yeast and activated it, ensure the foamy yeast mixture is added at this point. If using instant yeast, add it directly to the dry ingredients before mixing in the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Mix and Knead the Dough

Using a wooden spoon or a spatula, stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If you are using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, you can knead the dough on medium-low speed for 6-8 minutes. Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which is essential for creating the soft and chewy texture of dinner rolls. The dough should be soft and pliable, not sticky. If it is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time, kneading until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 5: First Rise (Proofing)

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. A warm place is crucial for proper rising; aim for a temperature around 75-80°F (24-27°C). You can place the bowl in a slightly warmed oven (turned off), a sunny spot, or near a warm stove. This first rise allows the yeast to work its magic, creating air bubbles and developing the light and airy texture of the rolls.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12-16 equal portions, depending on the desired size of your rolls. You can use a kitchen scale for precise and uniform rolls. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by gently tucking the edges underneath. For round rolls, simply cup your hand over the dough ball and rotate it on the counter until it forms a smooth sphere.

Step 7: Second Rise (Proofing)

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan (or two 9-inch round cake pans) with butter or cooking spray. Arrange the shaped dough balls evenly in the prepared pan, leaving a little space between them for expansion. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have nearly doubled in size and are puffy. This second rise is essential for achieving extra soft and fluffy rolls. They should look noticeably larger and feel light to the touch.

Step 8: Preheat Oven and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is preheating, ensure the rolls are fully proofed.

Step 9: Bake the Rolls

Uncover the pan of rolls and brush the tops generously with melted unsalted butter. This is what gives them that signature buttery flavor and beautiful golden-brown crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and cooked through. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. To check for doneness, gently tap the top of a roll – it should sound hollow. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of a roll; it should come out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the rolls cool in the pan for a few minutes. Brush the tops of the warm rolls with more melted butter for extra buttery goodness and a beautiful sheen. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful aroma and incredible taste of your homemade buttery dinner rolls! They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven while still warm and soft.