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+ servings

Old-Fashioned Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls

Classic soft, buttery yeast rolls with a tender crumb — perfect for family dinners and holidays. Rich milk and butter produce a golden, fluffy roll that stays soft the next day.
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup whole milk warmed to 110-115°F
  • 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast one packet
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted, plus 2 tablespoons for brushing
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting; amount may vary slightly

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Warm the milk to about 110–115°F. In a large bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk and stir in the sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  • Stir in the melted butter and beaten egg until combined.
  • Add 2 cups of the flour and the salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Continue adding remaining flour 1/2 cup at a time until a soft dough forms that pulls away from the bowl.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes.
  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, about 60 minutes.
  • Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish or on a baking sheet spaced slightly apart.
  • Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise again until puffy, about 20–30 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown on top.
  • Remove rolls from the oven and immediately brush the tops with the reserved melted butter. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For best results, use room-temperature ingredients and avoid overflouring the dough. Rolls keep well stored in an airtight container for 2 days; warm briefly before serving.
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