Soft & Fluffy Dinner Rolls – Light, Homemade Comfort

These soft and fluffy Dinner Rolls are a comforting classic, made a little lighter for everyday enjoyment. They’re tender, golden, and just the right amount of chewy—perfect for pairing with soups, stews, holiday meals, or any dinner that needs a warm, homemade touch. With simple ingredients and a reliable method, these rolls are easy enough for weeknights and special enough for celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lightened-Up Classic: Comfort food made with simple, mindful ingredients.
• Easy to Make: Beginner-friendly with no stand mixer required.
• Soft & Golden: Just the right amount of fluff with a golden top.
• Versatile: Great with dinner, as sliders, or for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp light butter or olive oil
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra as needed)
• ½ tsp salt
• Cooking spray or a light brush of oil, for greasing

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix the Dough
Add light butter (or olive oil), salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Add remaining ¼ cup flour a little at a time as needed until dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is soft but not sticky.

3. Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–6 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or round cake pan.

6. Second Rise
Cover and let rolls rise again for 20–30 minutes until puffy.

7. Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until tops are golden brown.

8. Optional Finish
Brush warm rolls with a tiny bit of melted light butter for a glossy finish.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll, Approximate)

Calories: 110
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fat: 2.5g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Check Your Yeast: Make sure it foams—if not, it may be expired.
• Knead by Hand or Dough Hook: Either works; the goal is a smooth, elastic dough.
• Let Them Rise Fully: Give the rolls time to puff up for the best texture.
• Freeze for Later: Baked rolls freeze well—wrap individually and reheat as needed.

Why This Recipe Works

These dinner rolls are simple, tender, and made with just a few pantry staples. Using light butter or oil and modest sweetness keeps them flavorful but not heavy. They’re satisfying, warm, and versatile enough to go from everyday meals to holiday tables.

These Light Dinner Rolls offer everything you want in a homemade bread—soft texture, golden tops, and cozy aroma—with simple ingredients and no excess. They’re easy to make, easier to love, and sure to become a regular on your table.