Homemade Yeast Rolls
Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk (110°F/43°C), yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Stir gently and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy and activated.
- 2
Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, and egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
- 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add to the wet ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- 4
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. Add small amounts of flour only if dough is too sticky.
- 5
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, until doubled in size.
- 6
Punch down the dough and turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 65g each).
- 7
Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pulling the edges underneath and pinching to seal. Place rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- 8
Cover rolls with a towel and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
- 9
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) during the final 15 minutes of rising.
- 10
Bake for 16-18 minutes until golden brown on top and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
- 11
Remove from oven and immediately brush tops with melted butter. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Chef's Note
"The key to perfect rolls is patience with the rising times and ensuring your milk is the right temperature - too hot will kill the yeast, too cold won't activate it. Test with your finger; it should feel like warm bath water. For extra-soft rolls, place them closer together so they touch while baking, creating those signature pull-apart sides."