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Fluffy Honey Butter Dinner Rolls Make-Ahead Recipe Easy Perfect Soft Rolls

fluffy honey butter dinner rolls - featured image

These fluffy honey butter dinner rolls are soft, slightly sweet, and buttery, perfect for any occasion. The make-ahead dough resting overnight enhances flavor and texture, making them a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C), whole or 2%
  • 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for brushing
  • 1/4 cup (85g) honey, divided
  • 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp (6g) salt
  • 1 large egg, room temperature

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, stir 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast into 1/2 cup (120ml) of the warm milk along with 1 tbsp (12.5g) sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, remaining warm milk (3/4 cup or 180ml), 1/4 cup (85g) honey, melted butter, and the egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Knead by hand on a lightly floured surface or with a dough hook for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  4. First rise: Lightly oil a bowl and place the dough inside, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
  5. Shape rolls: Punch down the dough gently and divide it into 12 equal pieces (about 70g each). Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
  6. Arrange and chill: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spaced slightly apart. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or up to 24 hours.
  7. Preheat oven & final rise: Remove rolls from fridge and let rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes while preheating oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature about 190°F/88°C).
  9. Brush with honey butter: Mix 2 tbsp melted butter and 2 tbsp honey. Brush generously over warm rolls.
  10. Cool and serve: Let rolls cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm.

Notes

Milk temperature is important; aim for about 110°F to activate yeast properly. Knead dough until smooth and elastic but avoid over-flouring. Refrigerate shaped rolls overnight for better flavor and easier handling. Brush rolls with honey butter immediately after baking for shine and moisture. Rolls can be frozen after baking for up to three months.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey butter dinner rolls, soft dinner rolls, make-ahead rolls, easy bread recipe, fluffy rolls, holiday rolls