40 Minute Dinner Rolls Recipe

Water: Used to activate the yeast and form the dough.

Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the rolls.

Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.

All-purpose flour: The main structure of the rolls, providing the necessary gluten for texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rolls.

Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

When proofing the yeast, ensure the water is at the right temperature, ideally between 100°f and 110°f (37°c to 43°c). If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast, and if it's too cold, the yeast won't activate properly. This step is crucial for achieving the creamy foam that indicates the yeast is alive and active.

• warm water - Substitute with warm milk: Warm milk can help create a richer dough and can also help activate the yeast.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a slight floral note and also helps with yeast activation.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in water first.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can result in a chewier texture.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can add a slightly different flavor profile and is often less processed.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a richer flavor and is a healthier fat option.

• Allow the dinner rolls to cool completely at room temperature before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation, which can make the rolls soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the cooled rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer, you can also wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to maintain their freshness.

• To keep the rolls fresh for a longer period, consider refrigerating them. Place the rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to restore their softness.

• For freezing, wrap each cooled roll individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn and maintain the rolls' texture. Place the wrapped rolls in a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy the frozen rolls, remove the desired number from the freezer. Let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. For a quicker option, you can also use the microwave's defrost setting.

• To reheat the thawed rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Warm in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

• Alternatively, you can reheat the rolls in the microwave. Place a damp paper towel over the rolls and microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds per roll, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

• For an extra touch of flavor, brush the reheated rolls with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt or herbs before serving.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the dinner rolls in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place the wrapped rolls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

• Microwave Method: Place the dinner rolls on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough; if not, continue to heat in 10-second intervals.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Lightly brush the dinner rolls with butter or olive oil. Place the rolls in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dinner rolls directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Steam Method: Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a steamer basket over the pot, making sure the water does not touch the basket. Place the dinner rolls in the basket, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and soft.

• Large bowl: Used for dissolving sugar in warm water and mixing the yeast.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the water, flour, and oil.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the sugar, yeast, and salt.

• Wooden spoon: Handy for stirring the yeast mixture and incorporating the flour.

• Damp cloth: Used to cover the dough while it rises.

• Baking sheet: Greased and used to place the dough balls for baking.

• Oven: Preheated to 400°F (200°C) for baking the rolls.

• Flour sifter: Optional, but useful for ensuring the flour is lump-free.

• Pastry brush: Optional, for brushing oil or butter on the rolls before or after baking.

• Cooling rack: Used to cool the rolls after baking.

• Kitchen timer: Essential for keeping track of rising and baking times.

• Knife: Used to divide the dough into 12 balls.

• Rolling pin: Optional, for flattening dough if needed before shaping into balls.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to save time during assembly.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly and efficiently knead the dough, reducing manual effort and time.

Warm environment for rising: Place the dough in a warm spot to speed up the rising process.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven as soon as you begin mixing the ingredients to ensure it's ready when you are.

Divide dough evenly: Use a kitchen scale to quickly and evenly divide the dough into 12 balls.