Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls

There’s something truly magical about the warm aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. It evokes feelings of comfort and joy, and when it comes to dinner rolls, there’s no better way to enhance a meal than with light, fluffy, and utterly delicious rolls. These Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls are a game changer. They come together in just an hour and are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!

Why I Love This Recipe

What I adore about these Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls is their simplicity and speed. You don’t need to wait for hours for the dough to rise, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want to whip up something homemade. The texture is soft, with a tender crumb, and they are wonderfully versatile. Pair them with soups, stews, or enjoy them fresh out of the oven slathered with butter. Plus, the ingredients are staples you probably already have in your kitchen!

The Essentials

To make these Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups (17.5 oz) to 4 cups all-purpose flour, scooped and leveled
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon rapid rise yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 cup cool water
• 3/4 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced into 1 tablespoon pieces, plus more for tops
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

These ingredients work together to create rolls that are both flavorful and satisfying.

Hardware & Gadgets

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl for mixing the dough.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking.
• Rolling pin: For shaping the dough, if desired.
• Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper works perfectly.
• Kitchen towel: To cover the rolls as they rise, keeping them warm.

Having these tools ready will ensure you have a smooth baking process.

Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls: From Prep to Plate

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making these Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk together to combine the dry ingredients thoroughly.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the cool water, milk, and diced butter. Microwave the mixture for about 30 seconds until the butter is just melted. Stir in the lemon juice, then pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Mix and Knead

Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a dough begins to form. If the dough feels sticky, gradually add more flour, up to 4 cups total. Once the dough has come together, knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 20 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place the balls on a greased baking sheet, ensuring they are close together for soft edges.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for another 20 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Remove them from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter for a beautiful finish.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with butter or as a side to your favorite dishes!

In-Season Swaps

You can easily customize these Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls with seasonal ingredients:

• Herbs: Add fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
• Cheese: Incorporate shredded cheese for a cheesy version.
• Garlic: Add minced garlic to the butter for garlic-infused rolls.
• Sweet Add-ins: Mix in dried fruits or chocolate chips for a sweet variation.

These swaps can give your rolls a unique flavor profile depending on the season.

Little Things that Matter

When making these Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls, keep these tips in mind:

– Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. Check the expiration date!

– Knead the dough just until it’s smooth. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls.

• Use room temperature ingredients for a better rise.
• Don’t skip the second rise; it’s crucial for fluffy rolls.

These little details can make a big difference in your final product.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

After baking, let the rolls cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

• Storing: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
• Rewarming: To rewarm, place rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for a few seconds.

Proper storage ensures that you can enjoy these rolls long after they’re baked.

Popular Questions

Can I use active dry yeast instead of rapid rise yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast, but the rising time may be longer. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size, which may take about an hour.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it’s possible your yeast was inactive. Make sure to check the expiration date and activate the yeast in warm water before adding it to the dough.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and place it in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature and rise before shaping and baking.

What can I serve with these rolls?

These Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls pair wonderfully with soups, stews, salads, or as a side for any main dish. They’re also delicious on their own with butter.

Next Up in Your Queue

If you love baking and want to try more delicious recipes, check these out:

• Easy Yeast Rolls
• Make Ahead Biscuits Recipe

Serve & Enjoy

These Easy One-Hour Dinner Rolls are best served warm right out of the oven, but they’re also delightful the next day. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these rolls will elevate your dining experience.

The joy of baking is not just in the act itself but in sharing the fruits of your labor with loved ones. So, gather around the table and enjoy the warmth and love that comes with homemade bread. Happy baking!