Everyday Dinner Rolls
Soft, fluffy, and warm dinner rolls with a light, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with any meal. Ideal for family dinners, picnics, or special occasions, these homemade rolls are easy to prepare and deliver a comforting, fresh-baked aroma that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald the milk and allow it to cool to lukewarm.
- Add the shortening, salt, and sugar; stir until well combined and let it cool to lukewarm.
- Dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm water.
- Add the dissolved yeast to the milk mixture.
- Gradually add the sifted flour to the liquid mixture, stirring well after each addition until a soft dough forms.
- Cover the bowl tightly and set in a warm place to rise until doubled in bulk.
- Turn the risen dough onto a floured board and knead until it can be easily handled and shaped into rolls.
- Place the shaped rolls in a well-greased pan.
- Let the rolls rise again until doubled in size.
- Bake in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of skim. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. Ensure the milk is scalded properly to activate the yeast effectively. Knead the dough just until smooth to avoid tough rolls. For a touch of sweetness, add a hint of honey to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These dinner rolls are perfect served warm alongside a hearty soup or salad. They pair beautifully with dishes like Pecan Supreme or can be used to soak up savory gravies. For a delightful brunch, serve them alongside Raised Donuts Or Coffee Cake for a sweet and savory combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in aluminum foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. For a softer texture, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Everyday Dinner Rolls contains roughly 56 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 601mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dry yeast instead of compressed yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast! To substitute, use 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Simply mix it with the warm water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it bubbles before adding it to the milk mixture.
What can I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn't rising, it could be due to the yeast being inactive or the environment being too cold. Ensure the yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warmer area, such as near a preheated oven or in a slightly warm oven with the door ajar.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Absolutely! After baking, let the rolls cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).