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The Perfect Buttermilk Dinner Rolls Recipe

buttermilk dinner rolls - featured image

These soft, pillowy buttermilk dinner rolls have a perfect golden crust and a subtle tang from buttermilk. They’re easy to make with simple ingredients and are perfect for holidays or any dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, lukewarm
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 3 tablespoons (38g) granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) fine sea salt
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon (21g) honey (optional)
  • 23 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm buttermilk (about 110°F/43°C) with 1 tablespoon of the sugar and the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In your stand mixer bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining 2 tablespoons sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter (cooled), the egg, and honey if using. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
  4. Form the dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the well of dry ingredients. Mix on low speed with the dough hook until a shaggy dough forms, about 2 minutes.
  5. Knead the dough: Increase speed to medium and knead for 6-8 minutes (or 10-12 minutes by hand) until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. It should pass the windowpane test.
  6. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until doubled in size.
  7. Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 75g each). Shape each into a smooth ball and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  8. Second rise: Cover loosely and let rise for 30-45 minutes, until puffed up and touching each other.
  9. Preheat and prepare: About 20 minutes before baking, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the risen rolls gently with melted butter.
  10. Bake: Place in the center of the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, until deep golden brown and hollow when tapped. Rotate pan halfway through.
  11. Final butter bath: As soon as they come out, brush with more melted butter. Let cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Notes

For best results, use real buttermilk and good quality butter. Brush rolls with melted butter twice for a glossy finish. Dough can be refrigerated overnight after first rise for more flavor. Freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: buttermilk dinner rolls, homemade rolls, soft dinner rolls, holiday rolls, easy bread recipe