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Honey Butter Dinner Rolls

honey butter dinner rolls - featured image

Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet dinner rolls with a rich buttery finish, perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp (one packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm whole milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1/4 cup (85g) honey
  • 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, softened + extra for brushing
  • 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp (6g) salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water (110°F/43°C) with 1 tbsp of the honey and the active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together warm whole milk (1 cup/240ml), softened butter (1/4 cup/56g), remaining honey (3 tbsp/70g), sugar (2 tbsp/25g), eggs (2 large), and salt (1 tsp/6g). Once well combined, add the yeast mixture and stir.
  3. Add flour gradually: Add 4 cups (480g) of all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be soft but not too sticky. If too sticky, add a little more flour—up to 1/4 cup (30g) in total.
  4. Knead the dough: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for 5-6 minutes. The dough should bounce back when poked.
  5. First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Shape the rolls: Punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 2 ounces/57g each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pulling edges underneath and pinching the seams.
  7. Second rise: Arrange the balls in a greased 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish or round pan, leaving a little space between. Cover again and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  8. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown on top. They should sound hollow when tapped.
  9. Brush with honey butter: While still warm, brush the tops generously with melted butter mixed with a tablespoon of honey.
  10. Cool slightly and serve: Let the rolls cool for 5-10 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

Ensure milk and water are about 110°F (43°C) to activate yeast properly. Do not rush rising times for best fluffiness. Brushing rolls with honey butter immediately after baking locks in moisture and adds shine. Dough can be kneaded by hand if no mixer is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey butter dinner rolls, Thanksgiving bread, homemade rolls, soft dinner rolls, easy bread recipe