Indulge in the warmth of freshly baked bread rolls that are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served alongside a hearty meal or enjoyed with a touch of butter, these traditional homemade bread rolls will quickly become a family favorite. Their delightful aroma and tender texture will fill your kitchen with comfort, making every bite a moment of joy.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted, plus extra for brushing)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for topping, optional)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. You may need more or less flour depending on humidity and temperature.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
4. First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12-16 equal portions (depending on your desired size).
- Roll each portion into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet or in a 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll.
6. Second Rise:
- Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until they have puffed up.
7. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake the Rolls:
- Once the rolls have risen, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the rolls from the oven and brush them again with melted butter for extra flavor. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving warm.