Soft & Fluffy Homemade Rolls

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
• 2¼ tsp (7 g) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• ½ tsp vanilla extract, optional

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp milk

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast:
   In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until slightly foamy.
2. Make the dough:
   Add the egg, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead:
   Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth, soft, and elastic. Avoid adding too much flour—the dough should remain slightly soft.
4. First rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the rolls:
   Gently punch down the dough. Divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then gently coil it into a spiral shape. Place the rolls in a greased round baking pan, leaving a little space between them.
6. Second rise:
   Cover and let the shaped rolls rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
7. Egg wash:
   Whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Brush gently over the tops of the rolls.
8. Bake:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until beautifully golden brown.
9. Finish:
   Brush the hot rolls with a little melted butter for a soft, glossy finish. Let them cool slightly before serving.

✨ Tips

• Use warm, not hot, milk so you don’t damage the yeast.
• Don’t add too much flour; a slightly soft dough makes fluffier rolls.
• For extra-soft rolls, cover them with a clean kitchen towel for a few minutes after baking.

Soft, golden, fluffy, and perfect straight from the oven! 🥖❤️