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Amish Dinner Rolls

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.
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Equipment

  • 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
  

  • 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
 

  • 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.
  • Combine Wet Ingredients:
  • Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture, whisking to combine.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Second Rise:
  • Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  • Bake:
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
  • Butter the Rolls:
  • Brush the warm rolls with melted butter for a glossy finish.
  • 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 f