Soft Butter Rolls Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.

Warmed milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.

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

Active dry yeast: Leavens the dough, making it rise and become fluffy.

Softened butter: Adds richness and flavor to the rolls.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.

When combining the warm milk, sugar, and yeast, ensure the milk is not too hot, as this can kill the yeast. Aim for a temperature around 110°F (43°C). If you don't have a thermometer, the milk should feel warm to the touch but not scalding. This will help the yeast activate properly, leading to a better rise in your dough.

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

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the rolls denser.

• warmed milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• warmed milk - Substitute with water: Water can be used in a pinch, but the rolls may be less rich and flavorful.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a different kind of sweetness and moisture to the rolls.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a unique flavor and can be used as a natural sweetener.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used directly without needing to be dissolved in water first.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with fresh yeast: Fresh yeast can be used, but you will need to use a larger quantity and dissolve it in liquid.

• softened butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• softened butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option and adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used for a slightly different mineral content and flavor.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used, but you may need to adjust the quantity due to its larger grain size.

• To keep your soft butter rolls fresh and delightful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days.

• If you want to enjoy these rolls over a longer period, consider freezing them. First, allow the rolls to cool completely after baking. This prevents condensation and ice crystals from forming, which can affect the texture.

• Once cooled, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This extra layer of protection helps maintain their softness and prevents freezer burn.

• Place the wrapped rolls in a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date so you can keep track of their freshness.

• When you're ready to enjoy a roll, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. This should take about 1-2 hours.

• For a quicker option, you can reheat the rolls directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the rolls on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until they are warm and soft.

• If you prefer a microwave, wrap a roll in a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the roll soft.

• To add an extra touch of freshness, brush the rolls with a bit of melted butter before reheating. This will enhance their flavor and give them a lovely sheen.

• Enjoy your soft butter rolls with your favorite soups, salads, or as a delightful side to any meal.

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the soft butter rolls in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until they are warm and soft.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the rolls on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the rolls in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for about 3-5 minutes until they are warm and slightly crispy on the outside.

• For a stovetop method, use a skillet over medium-low heat. Lightly butter the skillet and place the rolls in it. Cover with a lid and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and have a slight crisp on the outside.

• To add a touch of moisture, brush the rolls with a bit of melted butter before reheating using any of the above methods. This will enhance their flavor and keep them soft.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast, and later to mix in the butter, salt, and flour.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, milk, and sugar.

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

• Wooden spoon: Handy for mixing the initial ingredients together until smooth.

• Stand mixer: Optional but useful for kneading the dough if you prefer not to do it by hand.

• Dough scraper: Helps in handling and dividing the dough into equal pieces.

• Greased bowl: Needed for placing the dough to rise.

• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel: Used to cover the bowl while the dough rises.

• Baking sheet: For placing the shaped rolls before baking.

• Parchment paper: Optional, but can be used to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup.

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for baking the rolls.

• Cooling rack: To cool the rolls once they are baked.

Warm ingredients: Ensure milk and butter are at room temperature to speed up mixing and rising times.

Proof yeast: Use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast to skip the proofing step.

Use a stand mixer: Knead the dough with a stand mixer to save time and effort.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while the dough is rising to save time.

Divide dough quickly: Use a dough cutter to quickly and evenly divide the dough into pieces.

Batch baking: Bake multiple rolls at once to save time.