Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked dinner rolls wafting through your kitchen.
These Best Ever Easy Homemade Crusty Dinner Rolls are soft on the inside, beautifully
golden and crusty on the outside, and perfect for any meal—whether it’s a holiday feast, a family dinner,
or a simple weeknight treat. This recipe is beginner-friendly, requires only a handful of basic ingredients,
and delivers bakery-style results every single time.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra if needed)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp salt
• Optional: 1 tbsp melted butter for brushing the tops

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough: Add melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until combined. Slowly add remaining flour until the dough becomes soft and slightly sticky.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead by hand or mixer for about 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls: Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Second Rise: Cover and let rise again for 25–30 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake rolls for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and crusty on the outside.
8. Optional Finishing Touch: Brush warm rolls with melted butter for a softer, flavorful top.

Description

These homemade crusty dinner rolls have the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The exterior bakes up
beautifully golden and crisp, while the interior remains soft, fluffy, and tender. They pair wonderfully with
soups, salads, roasted meats, and holiday meals — or simply enjoy them warm with butter and honey. Whether
you’re a beginner baker or an experienced one, this recipe guarantees delicious results every time.

Tips

• Use fresh yeast—if it doesn’t foam, discard and start fresh.
• Warm water is key; too hot will kill the yeast, too cold won’t activate it.
• Don’t over-flour; a slightly sticky dough makes softer rolls.
• Add steam for extra crustiness by placing a small dish of water in the oven during baking.
• Make ahead: Shape the rolls and refrigerate overnight; let rise 45 minutes before baking.

Correction

If your rolls turn out too dense, it may be because:

• The yeast wasn’t active.
• The dough was too dry from too much flour.
• Rising times were shortened.
• The dough wasn’t kneaded enough.

Enjoy

Serve these warm, crusty rolls with butter, jam, soup, or any hearty meal. They’re comfort food at its
finest—soft, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. Enjoy every bite!