Want a roll that stays soft for days? Try these fluffy, soft rolls made with butter and love. This is my Grandma’s recipe. The rolls are quick to rise due to the two packages of yeast. A special thanks to Baking Nana for writing the directions that are clear and easy to follow.
| PREP TIME | COOK TIME | ADDITIONAL TIME | TOTAL TIME | SERVINGS | YIELD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 mins | 15 mins | 1 hr 10 mins | 1 hr 55 mins | 18 | 18 large rolls |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This bread recipe, straight from a grandma, yields soft, fluffy, delicious rolls.
- Home cooks of all levels have consistently successful results with this easy recipe.
- “These are wonderfully soft for days just as promised,” assures Allrecipes member Angela.
There’s something truly special about a recipe passed down through generations. These soft butter rolls carry the warmth and love of Grandma Rita’s kitchen, and now they can grace your table too. With their pillowy texture, golden crust, and rich buttery flavor, these rolls are the perfect accompaniment to any meal—from holiday feasts to simple weeknight dinners.
The Secret to Perfect Rolls
This recipe achieves its remarkable softness through a combination of techniques. The scalded milkhelps create a tender crumb by altering the proteins in the flour. The two packages of yeast ensure a quick, reliable rise, making these rolls accessible even for beginner bakers. The generous amount of butterkeeps them moist and adds that unmistakable rich flavor. And using bread flour provides the higher protein content needed for structure while maintaining softness.
The Complete Recipe: Grandma Rita’s Soft Butter Rolls
Ingredients
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4½ teaspoons active dry yeast (2 packets)
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
- ½ cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 3½ cups bread flour, divided (or as needed)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, or more as needed for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Scald the Milk
Pour the milk into a glass 2-cup measuring cup and heat in the microwave until it starts to boil and climb the sides, about 1 minute. Add the butter, ¼ cup sugar, and salt to the scalded milk. Stir until the butter is melted. Set aside to cool until it drops below 110°F (45°C). The milk mixture must be cool enough not to kill the yeast.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in the warm water. Let stand until the yeast softens and begins to form a creamy foam, about 5 to 10 minutes. This step confirms your yeast is active and ready to work.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour the cooled milk mixture into the yeast mixture. Add 2 cups of bread flour and the beaten egg. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Add Remaining Flour
Gradually add the remaining bread flour, about ½ cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Continue adding flour until the dough is smooth and just slightly tacky to the touch. You may not need all the flour, or you may need a little more—the dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 5: First Rise
Turn the dough out onto a sheet of lightly floured waxed paper or a floured surface. Knead gently just a few times to pull the dough together, then shape it into a smooth ball. Place the dough in a large, lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into three equal portions. Divide each portion into six evenly sized pieces and shape each piece into a smooth ball. Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for expansion.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise in a warm place for another 30 minutes, until puffy and nearly doubled.
Step 8: Preheat and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the risen rolls in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 15 minutes. The rolls should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Transfer the baked rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm, with plenty of butter.
Pro Tips for Perfect Rolls
- Temperature Matters:Liquids that are too hot will kill the yeast; too cool will slow the rise. Use a thermometer for accuracy if you’re unsure.
- Don’t Over-flour: Add flour gradually and stop when the dough is smooth and just slightly tacky. Too much flour will make the rolls dense.
- Knead Gently: This dough requires minimal kneading—just enough to bring it together. Over-kneading can make the rolls tough.
- Warm Rising Spot: An oven with the light on, or a sunny counter, provides the ideal warm environment for rising.
- Freshness Guarantee: These rolls truly stay soft for days. Store them in an airtight container or bread box.
Delicious Variations
- Garlic Butter Rolls: Brush the baked rolls with garlic butter and sprinkle with parsley.
- Cinnamon Sugar Rolls: For a sweet treat, brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar while warm.
- Herb Rolls: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the dough.
- Cheese Rolls: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the tops before baking.
- Whole Wheat: Substitute half the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier roll.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roasted meats, soups, or stews
- Use for sandwiches or sliders
- Enjoy with butter and jam for breakfast
- Serve at holiday dinners—Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter
- Pair with pasta dishes to soak up extra sauce
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or bread box for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: These rolls freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature.
- Reheating: Refresh rolls in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes to restore that fresh-baked warmth.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
Conclusion: A Taste of Grandma’s Love
Grandma Rita’s Soft Butter Rolls are more than just a recipe—they’re a connection to family, tradition, and the simple joy of homemade bread. With their pillowy texture, golden crust, and rich buttery flavor, these rolls elevate any meal from ordinary to memorable.
Easy enough for beginners yet satisfying for experienced bakers, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time. Make a batch for your next family dinner, and you’ll understand why Grandma Rita’s rolls have earned such devoted fans. They’re not just rolls—they’re a labor of love, baked fresh and shared with joy.