Amish Dinner Rolls

Amish Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden on top—ideal for any family meal or holiday gathering. These buttery rolls have a slightly sweet flavor and are made with a simple yeast dough that bakes to pillowy perfection. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated later, these rolls are always a crowd-pleaser.

If you’ve been searching for a classic roll recipe with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, look no further!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer with a dough hook (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Clean kitchen towel
• Baking dish or sheet
• Pastry brush

Ingredients Overview

• Yeast: Helps the dough rise and gives the rolls their airy texture.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
• Butter: Creates a tender crumb and enhances the flavor.
• Eggs: Provide structure and add richness.
• Sugar: Gives a slight sweetness to balance the buttery flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture, whisking to combine.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms a soft ball. If the dough is sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
4. Knead the Dough:
   • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Rolls:
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 12–15 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Second Rise:
   • Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
8. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
9. Butter the Rolls:
   • Brush the warm rolls with melted butter for a glossy finish.
10. Serve:

• Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• Make sure the milk is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle the tops with a pinch of sea salt after brushing with butter.
• Rolls can be made ahead of time and reheated at 300°F for a few minutes before serving.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Pair with hearty soups, stews, or roasts.
• Perfect alongside a Thanksgiving turkey or holiday ham.
• Serve with butter and jam for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I freeze these rolls?
A: Yes! Freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Absolutely. Skip the activation step and mix the instant yeast directly into the flour.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the dough and shape the rolls, then refrigerate overnight before baking. Let the rolls come to room temperature and rise before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Amish Dinner Rolls are best served warm and can be enjoyed with butter, honey, or jam. They also make an excellent base for sliders or mini sandwiches. Perfect for any occasion, these rolls are a versatile addition to your table.