There is something incredibly comforting about pulling warm, buttery rolls out of the oven and setting them on the table while the rest of dinner is still steaming. I love this recipe because it gives me that homemade bread feeling without hours of waiting. When I am short on time but still want something cozy and special, these rolls always come to the rescue. They are soft, fluffy, and ready in about half an hour from start to finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I keep coming back to this recipe because it is fast, reliable, and made with simple pantry staples. I like that I do not have to plan ahead or wait for long proofing times. The rolls come out tender and buttery every single time, and they work just as well for a casual weeknight dinner as they do for a holiday table. I also enjoy how versatile they are, since I can keep them plain or dress them up with herbs, cheese, or a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 400°F and lightly greasing a baking sheet. In a large bowl, I mix the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt until everything is evenly combined. I then add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Next, I knead the dough for about 5 minutes, just until it becomes smooth and elastic. I divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, roll them into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. I let them rest and rise in a warm spot for 10 to 15 minutes, just until they look slightly puffy.
I bake the rolls for 8 to 10 minutes, watching closely until they turn lightly golden on top. As soon as they come out of the oven, I brush them with melted butter and serve them warm.
Servings And Timing
This recipe makes 12 dinner rolls.
Prep time is about 15 minutes, including mixing and shaping.
Rise time is 10 to 15 minutes.
Bake time is 8 to 10 minutes.
From start to finish, I usually have these rolls ready in about 30 minutes.
Variations
I like to add a little honey or extra sugar to the dough when I want a slightly sweet roll. For savory versions, I sometimes mix in garlic powder, dried herbs, or shredded cheese. When I want something fun, I shape the dough into smaller rolls for sliders or brush the tops with herb butter right after baking. This base recipe is very forgiving and easy to customize.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If I want them to last longer, I freeze them once they are completely cooled. To reheat, I warm them in the oven at 325°F for a few minutes or microwave them briefly until soft and warm again.
FAQs
Can I Make These Rolls Ahead Of Time?
I usually make them fresh, but I can prepare the dough and shape the rolls a few hours ahead, then cover and refrigerate them. When I am ready to bake, I let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before putting them in the oven.
Why Are My Rolls Not Fluffy?
When my rolls turn out dense, it is usually because I added too much flour or overworked the dough. I try to knead just until smooth and measure the flour carefully for best results.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Milk?
I prefer whole milk for richness, but I have also used lower-fat milk with good results. The texture may be slightly less rich, but the rolls still turn out soft.
Can I Freeze The Rolls After Baking?
Yes, I freeze them all the time. Once cooled, I place them in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to two months. Reheating them in the oven brings them back to life.
What Is The Best Way To Serve These Rolls?
I love serving them warm with butter, but they are also great alongside soups, stews, or holiday meals. Sometimes I even use them as sandwich rolls for leftovers.
Conclusion
These 30-Minute Dinner Rolls are one of my favorite baking shortcuts. They save time without sacrificing flavor or texture, and they make any meal feel more complete. Whenever I want fresh bread without the wait, this is the recipe I trust. It is simple, comforting, and always worth making again.
These 30-Minute Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and buttery, delivering the comforting taste of homemade bread without the long wait. Made with simple ingredients and ready in half an hour, they’re perfect for weeknights, holidays, or any time you crave fresh rolls fast.
Ingredients
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
In a large bowl, mix flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Knead dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Divide dough into 12 equal pieces, shape into balls, and place on baking sheet.
Let the rolls rest in a warm place for 10–15 minutes until slightly puffy.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly golden on top.
Brush rolls with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven. Serve warm.
Notes
To make sweeter rolls, add 1–2 tablespoons of honey or extra sugar.
For savory versions, mix in garlic powder, herbs, or shredded cheese.
Do not over-knead or over-flour the dough to keep the rolls fluffy.
Freeze cooled rolls in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.
