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Sweet Dinner Rolls: A Recipe for Soft, Fluffy Perfection

Sweet dinner rolls are a classic comfort food, perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or simply a cozy night in. This recipe focuses on creating incredibly soft and fluffy rolls with a touch of sweetness, achieved through a combination of enriched dough, careful kneading, and precise baking. We’ll cover everything from the essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions to helpful tips for achieving the perfect rise and golden-brown crust. You’ll learn the secrets to making melt-in-your-mouth rolls that are sure to impress. We will also dive into the nutritional aspects of these delightful rolls. And finally, we’ll address some frequently asked questions to ensure your success in the kitchen. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a batch of irresistible sweet dinner rolls!

Ingredients: The Foundation of Fluffy Goodness

The key to exceptional sweet dinner rolls lies in the quality and proportions of the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 1/4 cups (390g), plus more for dusting. Use a good quality all-purpose flour. Bread flour can also be used for a chewier texture.
• Active Dry Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet). Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
• Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (50g). Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (6g). Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
• Milk: 1 cup (240ml), warm (105-115°F/40-46°C). Warm milk helps activate the yeast. Avoid overheating, as it can kill the yeast.
• Water: 1/4 cup (60ml), warm (105-115°F/40-46°C). Works with the milk to create the perfect liquid ratio.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (57g), melted. Adds richness and tenderness to the rolls.
• Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten. Contributes to the dough’s structure and richness.
• Egg Wash: 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of milk (for brushing). Gives the rolls a beautiful golden-brown sheen.

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Dough to Delight

Follow these steps carefully to create perfect sweet dinner rolls:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the melted butter and beaten egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook attachment for 6-8 minutes on medium speed. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Rolls: Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
7. Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
8. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Sweet Dinner Rolls

• Don’t Overheat the Milk/Water: Overheating the liquids can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising. Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is between 105-115°F (40-46°C).
• Knead Properly: Proper kneading is essential for developing the gluten in the flour, which gives the rolls their structure and elasticity.
• Proof in a Warm Place: A warm environment encourages the yeast to work its magic, resulting in a light and airy dough.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to dry rolls. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven when they are golden brown.
• Brush with Melted Butter (Optional): For extra richness and flavor, brush the baked rolls with melted butter immediately after they come out of the oven.

Recipe Card

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rising time)
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition Card

• Calories: Approximately 220 per roll (varies depending on ingredient brands and portion size)
• Sugar: Approximately 8g per roll
• Fat: Approximately 7g per roll
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g per roll
• Fiber: Approximately 1g per roll
• Protein: Approximately 5g per roll
• Yields: 12 rolls

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can! If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step and add it directly to the dry ingredients. Use the same amount (2 1/4 teaspoons) and follow the rest of the recipe as written. The rising time may be slightly shorter.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough through the first rise, then punch it down, shape the rolls, and place them in the baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the rolls from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes, or until puffy. Then, bake as directed.

Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, you can freeze baked rolls. Let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to refresh them.

What can I add to these rolls to make them even more flavorful?

There are many ways to customize these rolls! Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to the dough, or brushing them with a honey-butter glaze after baking. You could also add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

Why are my rolls not rising properly?

There are several reasons why your rolls might not be rising. Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Also, ensure that the liquids are not too hot, as this can kill the yeast. Finally, the environment needs to be warm enough to encourage rising. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) or near a warm stovetop.

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