Poppy Seed Dinner Rolls Recipe

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:

  1. 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.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
    • Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture.
    • Whisk until well combined.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Prepare Egg Wash (Optional):
    • If you would like a golden brown shiny top, whisk the egg and milk together in a small bowl.
  8. 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.
  9. 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!

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