1-Hour Soft and Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft and fluffy 1-hour dinner rolls made with honey, butter, and warm milk. These quick homemade rolls feature a tender crumb and golden crust, perfect for serving with soups, stews, and holiday meals. Easy to prepare using active dry yeast and simple ingredients.

Ingredients

1 cup water
2 tablespoons melted butter
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon active dry yeast*
3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
Extra melted butter, for brushing

Instructions

Prepare Oven and Pan
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
Heat Liquids
In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine water, melted butter, milk, and honey. Warm the mixture to about 110°F—warm to the touch but not hot. Use 15-second intervals in the microwave or heat gently over medium-low on the stove, stirring occasionally.
Activate Yeast
Pour the warm liquid mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle yeast evenly over the surface and stir lightly with a fork. Let the yeast activate for about 5 minutes, until foamy.
Add Dry Ingredients
Add 3 ½ cups of flour and the salt to the yeast mixture.
Mix and Knead Dough
Using the dough hook attachment, mix on medium-low speed until combined. If the dough sticks to the sides, add flour ¼ cup at a time, up to 4 cups total, until the dough pulls away from the bowl and feels slightly sticky. Continue mixing for 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth. Shape into a ball and transfer to a greased bowl.
First Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp towel or paper towel and let the dough rise for 15 minutes.
Shape Rolls
Gently punch down the dough and divide it into 15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball. Place the dough balls evenly in the prepared baking dish. Cover again and let rise for another 15-20 minutes.
Bake
Remove the cover and bake for 15 minutes, or until the rolls are lightly golden on top and fully cooked.
Brush with Butter
Transfer the baking dish to a wire rack and brush the warm rolls with melted butter.
Serve
Serve the rolls warm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 1 hour from start to finish
Soft, fluffy texture with a rich buttery flavor
Perfectly sized dinner rolls that pair well with any meal

Tips

Use warm (not hot) liquids to activate yeast properly.
Don’t over-flour the dough; slightly sticky dough yields softer rolls.
Cover dough during rising to keep moisture in for better texture.
Brush with butter immediately after baking for a shiny, flavorful crust.

Variations and Substitutions

Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for different sweetness.
Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for savory rolls.
Use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make this dough by hand?
Yes, mix ingredients in a bowl and knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, freeze baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Check the yeast expiration date and ensure the liquids are the right temperature (around 110°F). Too hot or too cold can prevent rising.

Serving

Serve these soft dinner rolls alongside soups, stews, roasted meats, or holiday meals. They also make excellent sandwich buns or sliders.

Suggestions

Spread with honey butter or garlic herb butter for extra flavor.
Use leftover rolls for mini sandwiches or breakfast sliders.
Toast and top with jam or cream cheese for a quick snack.

These 1-hour soft and buttery dinner rolls bring homemade warmth and comfort to your table with minimal effort and quick preparation.