Poppy Seed Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and enriched with the nutty flavor of poppy seeds, making them a delightful addition to any meal. These golden-brown rolls have a tender crumb and a slightly crisp exterior, perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or as a side for holiday feasts. Their subtle crunch and mildly sweet taste elevate them beyond ordinary dinner rolls, making them a favorite among bread lovers.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe ensures success with easy-to-follow steps and minimal ingredients. The poppy seeds not only enhance the flavor but also add a slight crunch that makes every bite enjoyable. These dinner rolls are ideal for family gatherings, special occasions, or even as a daily treat with butter or jam. Get ready to impress your guests with these homemade, bakery-style rolls that are sure to be a hit on your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
- Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the activated yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter.
- Mix until the dough starts coming together.
- Kneading the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour as needed.
- First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shaping the Rolls
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll.
- Second Rise
- Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30–40 minutes until puffy.
- Apply Egg Wash and Poppy Seeds
- In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolk and milk.
- Lightly brush the egg wash over the rolls and sprinkle poppy seeds on top for a decorative and flavorful finish.
- Baking
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the rolls for 15–18 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
- Cooling and Serving
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.