These Soft Yeast Rolls are the perfect addition to any meal, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. With a soft, fluffy texture and a slightly sweet flavor, they make for an irresistible side dish. Imagine pulling a fresh batch out of the oven, their golden tops glistening with melted butter, and the aroma filling your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty stew or using them to mop up delicious gravy, these rolls will quickly become a family favorite.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This recipe for Soft Yeast Rolls is not just another bread recipe; it’s a treasure you’ll want to keep in your collection. The combination of active dry yeast, warm water, and a touch of sugar creates a perfectly risen dough that bakes into fluffy rolls. They are versatile enough to accompany any meal, from holiday feasts to casual dinners. Plus, they are simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and a little bit of patience. The end result is well worth the effort, and your guests will be asking for the recipe!
What You’ll Need
- Two 2.25 ounce packages of active dry yeast — This is the key to making your rolls light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon + 1 cup granulated white sugar, divided — The sugar helps activate the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
- 1 cup warm water (110 to 115°F) — This temperature is perfect for activating the yeast without killing it.
- 1 cup salted butter, softened — Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
- 1 cup shortening — Helps achieve a soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt — Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 cup boiling water — This is added to help the butter and shortening melt.
- 2 large eggs — Provides structure and moisture to the rolls.
- 7 to 7.5 cups all-purpose flour — This is needed to shape the dough into rolls.
Prep & Cook Tools
- Large mixing bowl — For combining your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons — Precision is key in baking.
- Wooden spoon or dough whisk — Ideal for mixing the sticky dough.
- Clean kitchen towel — To cover the dough while it rises.
- Oven — Necessary for baking those delicious rolls.
- Baking sheet — For placing the rolls as they rise and bake.
Soft Yeast Rolls — Do This Next
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, shortening, and the remaining cup of sugar. Pour in the boiling water and stir until everything is melted and combined. Allow this mixture to cool slightly before adding the eggs.
Step 3: Mix the Dough
Once the mixture is lukewarm, whisk in the eggs. Then add the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and salt, starting with 5 cups and mixing until a soft dough forms. Continue to add flour, a little at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour as needed.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1-2 hours.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal pieces (about 12-15). Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the shaped rolls with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they are puffy and nearly doubled in size.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Remove them from the oven and brush with melted butter for a rich finish.
Make It Fit Your Plan
- Freezing: These rolls freeze beautifully! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise. Shape and bake them the next day.
- Flavor variations: Add herbs, garlic, or cheese to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving ideas: Serve these rolls with Creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls With Chicken or Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs With Rice Pilaf for a complete meal.
Errors to Dodge
To ensure your Soft Yeast Rolls turn out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using water that is too hot can kill the yeast. Always aim for the specified temperature range.
- Not allowing enough time for the dough to rise can result in dense rolls.
- Over or under-kneading the dough can affect the texture of the rolls.
- Forgetting to brush the rolls with butter after baking can mean missing that delicious finishing touch!
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Soft Yeast Rolls fresh for longer:
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- When freezing, place parchment paper between layers of rolls to prevent sticking.
- Reheat frozen rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their softness.
Your Top Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, and there’s no need to proof it in water; you can mix it directly into the dry ingredients.
What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that you used the correct water temperature. If it’s too cold or too hot, it can hinder the yeast’s activity.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free rolls using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture may vary slightly from traditional rolls.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C).
Bring It Home
These Soft Yeast Rolls are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a family dinner, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, these rolls will elevate your meal. With their fluffy texture and delightful flavor, they will be a hit at your table. Make a batch today and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of homemade bread.
Soft Yeast Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Activate the Yeast - In a small bowl, combine the warm water and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, shortening, and the remaining cup of sugar. Pour in the boiling water and stir until melted. Allow to cool slightly before adding eggs.
- Step 3: Mix the Dough - Once lukewarm, whisk in the eggs and add the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Step 4: Knead the Dough - Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 5: First Rise - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-2 hours.
- Step 6: Shape the Rolls - Punch down the dough, divide into 12-15 pieces, shape into balls, and place on a greased baking sheet.
- Step 7: Second Rise - Cover the rolls with a towel and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
- Step 8: Bake - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter.
Notes
- These rolls freeze beautifully! Allow to cool before freezing in an airtight container.
- Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate after the first rise.
- Add herbs or cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve with hearty dishes for a complete meal.
