Hey there, lovely cook! So, have you ever just craved that fluffy, sweet, buttery roll that melts in your mouth? I sure have, and let me tell you, these Honey Butter Dinner Rolls have made more than just a few appearances on our dinner table. The first time I made them was during a family Thanksgiving (and yes, I was a bit nervous about the yeast behaving!). But they turned out glorious, and now it’s my go-to recipe whenever I want to impress the in-laws or just treat myself on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Why You’ll Love These
I whip these up when I’m in the mood for something comforting yet special (you know, those days when you need a little pick-me-up?). My family goes crazy for these because they’re just so soft and sweet, like a warm hug in bread form. Sure, there was a time I thought I couldn’t get them just right—my dough was stubborn once, but hey, practice makes perfect!
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (sometimes I go for whole wheat if I’m feeling healthy)
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast (I swear by Red Star, but really any brand will do)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 cup warm milk (full-fat is my indulgence, but 2% works fine)
- 1/3 cup butter, melted (or margarine if it’s what you have)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the topping: 1/4 cup honey + 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
- Start by mixing the warm milk, honey, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes—don’t panic if it doesn’t foam up like crazy, it should still work.
- Add in the melted butter, egg, and salt. Give it a good stir. Now, gradually mix in the flour. This is where I usually sneak a taste of the dough (it’s so good!).
- Knead the dough for about 6-8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. A bit sticky is okay, but if it’s clinging to everything, sprinkle some flour.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour. It should double in size, but if it’s cold where you are, give it some extra time.
- Punch down the dough (so satisfying!) and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll them into balls and place on a greased baking dish.
- Let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F during this time.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until they’re golden brown. As soon as they’re out, brush with the honey-butter mixture. Try not to eat them all at once!
Notes
If the dough is too sticky, don’t stress—just gradually add a bit more flour. And if it’s too dry, a splash of milk can help. It’s all about balance!
Variations
I once tried adding cinnamon to the dough, which was delightful, but my attempt at stuffing them with cheese didn’t quite hit the mark (tasted great, but the cheese oozed out!).
Equipment
A stand mixer is handy, but if you don’t have one, a bit of elbow grease with a spoon and your hands works just fine. Who needs a gym membership, right?
Storage
These rolls can last up to 3 days in an airtight container, though honestly, in my house it never lasts more than a day!
Serving Suggestions
We serve these with a hearty stew or just slathered with extra honey butter. My kids love making mini sandwiches with them!
Pro Tips
I once tried rushing the rise time, and regretted it because the rolls ended up dense. Patience is key—good things come to those who wait!
FAQ
Can I use regular active dry yeast? Sure thing! Just let it sit longer in the milk to activate.
What’s the best way to reheat them? Pop them in the oven for a few minutes; they get nice and toasty!
Can I freeze the dough? Yep—just form the rolls before the second rise and freeze. Thaw and let rise before baking.