Make-ahead friendly — the slow rise improves flavor and texture.
Beginner-friendly — foolproof even if you’ve never baked bread before.
Versatile — great as dinner rolls, sandwich sliders, or breakfast buns.
Ingredients
For the Dough
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
For the Topping
2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
Optional: flaky sea salt or sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Make the No-Knead Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
In a separate bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, and egg.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms.
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
Let rise for 1–2 hours at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
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2. Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled in size, lightly grease your hands (the dough will be sticky).
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
Shape each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath.
Place the rolls inside a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. Second Rise
Cover the pan with a towel or plastic wrap.
Allow rolls to rise for 45–60 minutes, or until puffy and touching.
4. Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are gently golden.
Brush immediately with melted butter for that signature soft, shiny finish.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are delicious on their own, but they shine in so many ways:
Pair with soups, stews, or roasted chicken.
Use as slider buns for pulled pork or chicken.
Spread with honey butter, jam, or garlic herb butter.
Enjoy warm at breakfast with eggs and cheese.
Tips for Perfect Rolls
Cold overnight dough is easier to handle and makes tastier rolls.
If using active dry yeast, bloom it in the warm milk for 5 minutes first.
For ultra-soft rolls, place a small dish of water on the oven floor to create steam.
Want sweeter rolls? Add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
A Comforting Classic, Made Simple
These Soft No-Knead Dinner Rolls prove that homemade bread doesn’t have to be intimidating or time-consuming. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you’ll create rolls so fluffy and delicious that they’ll disappear as soon as they hit the table.