These soft, fluffy dinner rolls are studded with poppy seeds, adding a delightful nutty flavor and a pleasing texture. They’re perfect for any meal, from casual dinners to special occasions.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 100-110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- For the Egg Wash (Optional):
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
- For Topping (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar.
- Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Whisk until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or a dough hook on a stand mixer.
- Add the 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds with the first addition of flour.
- Continue adding flour until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
- You may not need all the flour.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5 minutes.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
- Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Rolls:
- Punch down the dough to release the air.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Divide the dough into 12-15 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
- Let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes, or until noticeably puffy.
- Prepare Egg Wash (Optional):
- If you would like a golden brown shiny top, whisk the egg and milk together in a small bowl.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the rolls with the egg wash if using.
- Sprinkle the optional 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds on top of the rolls.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool in the baking dish for a few minutes.
- Transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!