Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the yeast

In a large bowl, combine:

warm milk
sugar
yeast

Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to help the dough rise.

2. Mix in the remaining ingredients

Add:

melted butter
egg
salt

Stir to combine, then gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead the dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until:

smooth
elastic
slightly tacky but not sticky

You can knead using a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5–7 minutes.

4. First rise

Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the rolls

Punch down the dough gently to release air.
Divide into 12–16 equal pieces depending on how large you want your rolls.
Shape each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath.

Place rolls onto a greased or parchment-lined baking pan, spaced slightly apart.

6. Second rise

Cover the shaped rolls and allow them to rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until puffy.

This second rise is key to soft, pull-apart texture.

7. Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the rolls for 14–18 minutes, or until the tops turn light golden brown.

8. Brush with butter

While still warm, brush the rolls generously with melted butter.
This keeps the tops soft and adds irresistible flavor.

How to Serve Soft Bread Rolls

These rolls are wonderfully versatile:

Serve warm with butter or jam
Use as mini sandwich buns
Pair with soups, stews, or holiday dinners
Turn leftover rolls into sliders
Toast lightly for breakfast

They also freeze beautifully — just warm in the oven before serving.

Tips for Perfect Rolls Every Time

Warm milk is crucial — too hot and it kills yeast, too cold and the dough won’t rise well.
Don’t add too much flour — soft dough creates soft rolls.
Let the dough rise fully — under-risen dough makes dense bread.
Brush with butter twice — once out of the oven and again after 5 minutes for extra softness.
Use bread flour for even fluffier rolls (optional).

Final Thoughts

Homemade Soft Bread Rolls are the kind of recipe that transforms simple ingredients into something spectacular. They’re fluffy, tender, buttery, and suitable for nearly any meal. Once you learn how easy they are to make, you might never go back to store-bought rolls again.