Imagine pulling apart a warm, fluffy dinner roll that's infused with aromatic garlic and fragrant herbs, filling your kitchen with an incredible aroma that makes everyone's mouth water. These homemade dinner rolls are not just a side dish – they're a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will have you creating bakery-quality rolls that will become the star of your dinner table, leaving your guests begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 rolls
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon mixed herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (around 110°F), active dry yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes foamy and activated.
- Add olive oil, minced garlic, and mixed herbs to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Gradually add flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or stand mixer with a dough hook until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when gently pressed.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth, round ball.
- Arrange the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each roll.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during the second rise.
- Optional: Brush the rolls with melted butter or egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving warm.
Tips
- Yeast Temperature Matters: Ensure your water is warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast properly without killing it. Too hot, and you'll destroy the yeast; too cold, and it won't activate.
- Kneading Technique: When kneading, use the heel of your hand to push and fold the dough. This develops gluten and creates that perfect, soft texture.
- Rising Environment: Choose a warm, draft-free spot for rising. A slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a sunny window works great.
- Don't Rush the Rise: Allow sufficient time for the dough to rise. This develops flavor and creates a light, airy texture.
- Consistent Size: Use a kitchen scale or divide the dough carefully to ensure all rolls are uniform in size for even baking.
- Brush for Shine: The optional butter or egg wash gives your rolls a beautiful golden, glossy appearance.
- Fresh is Best: These rolls are most delicious when served warm, straight from the oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
