Soft and Chewy Rolls with Variations is a versatile recipe that delivers pillowy, golden brown rolls perfect for any occasion. Made with simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, warm milk, and instant yeast, these rolls are irresistibly tender and slightly sweet, thanks to a touch of granulated sugar. The recipe includes a rich egg wash option for a glossy, bakery-style finish, and it highlights adaptable preparation methods: knead by hand or with a stand mixer. Whether served warm with butter, as a side to soups and stews, or customized with creative add-ins like herbs, cheese, or cinnamon sugar, these rolls rise to the challenge of every mealtime need. Quick prep and an approachable step-by-step process make this recipe a must-try for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture and whisk until well combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes by hand on a lightly floured surface or 6-8 minutes in a stand mixer until soft, smooth, and slightly tacky to the touch.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until puffy.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, whisk together the egg and water for an egg wash, then brush it over the tops of the rolls for a glossy finish.
Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Calories |
228 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 5.8 g | 7% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.2 g | 16% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 44 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 215 mg | 9% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 37.1 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.4 g | ||
| Protein | 6.3 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 36 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.7 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 83 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.