Home Old-Fashioned Soft and Buttery Yeast Rolls Recipe

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There’s something comforting and nostalgic about homemade yeast rolls—soft, buttery, and warm straight from the oven. These old-fashioned rolls bring back memories of family dinners, holiday gatherings, and Sunday suppers. This recipe uses simple ingredients and traditional methods to create perfectly fluffy rolls with a rich, buttery flavor and a golden, tender crust. Serve them with a pat of butter or use them to sop up gravy—they’re irresistible either way!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F)

  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 large egg, room temperature

  • 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for brushing after baking)

  • Instructions:

    1. Activate the Yeast:

      • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.

    2. Make the Dough:

      • Add melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.

      • Gradually mix in the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. You may not need all 4 cups.

    3. Knead the Dough:

      • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes).

    4. First Rise:

      • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

    5. Shape the Rolls:

      • Punch down the risen dough. Divide into 12–15 equal pieces and shape into balls. Place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

    6. Second Rise:

      • Cover rolls and let rise again for about 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

    7. Bake:

      • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

    8. Butter the Tops:

      • Immediately brush hot rolls with melted butter. Let cool slightly before serving.

      • Tips:

        • For an even softer texture, substitute ½ cup of the flour with bread flour.

        • You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge for more flavor.

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