Buttermilk Rolls

Soft, fluffy, and incredibly delicious, these Buttermilk Rolls are the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them with a hearty stew, a holiday feast, or just slathering them with butter for a snack, these rolls are guaranteed to win everyone over. The tanginess of the buttermilk adds a rich depth of flavor, making them irresistible right out of the oven.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfectly Soft – These rolls have a tender, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for all skill levels.
Versatile – Serve them with dinner, use for sandwiches, or enjoy as a snack.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep the dough in advance for easy baking later.
Crowd-Pleaser – Great for family gatherings, holidays, or everyday meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm buttermilk (about 110°F)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 large egg

For Brushing:
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing after baking)

Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
Wooden spoon or spatula
Clean kitchen towel
Baking sheet or 9×13 inch baking dish
Pastry brush
Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm buttermilk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.

Step 2: Make the Dough
Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and 3 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Gradually add more flour, a few tablespoons at a time, until the dough is soft and only slightly sticky.

Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 6 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.

Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by tucking the edges underneath to form a smooth top. Place them evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or on a baking sheet.

Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.

Step 8: Brush & Cool
Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter. Let them cool slightly on a rack before serving.

Tips for Perfect Rolls
Use Warm Buttermilk – Not too hot or it may kill the yeast. Aim for around 110°F.
Don’t Rush the Rise – Let the dough rise fully for the fluffiest rolls.
Even Sizing – Try to make your dough balls uniform in size for even baking.
Don’t Over-Bake – Remove the rolls when they are just golden for the softest texture.
Freeze for Later – These rolls freeze well; just thaw and reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions
With Soups and Stews – Perfect for dunking into hearty, warm meals.
Holiday Side – An essential on your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
Sandwich Rolls – Slice in half and fill with your favorite ingredients.
Breakfast Treat – Toast and spread with jam or honey.
Simple Snack – Enjoy warm with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of sea salt.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days (best reheated before serving).
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Warm at 300°F for 8-10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual rolls for 15-20 seconds.
Toaster Oven: Great for a quick crisp-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
   Yes, but the flavor will be less tangy. Add 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk to mimic buttermilk.
2. Can I use active dry yeast?
   Yes, just activate it in warm buttermilk for 10 minutes before using.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Refrigerate the dough after the first rise and shape the rolls the next day.
4. How can I make these dairy-free?
   Use a plant-based butter and a non-dairy buttermilk substitute like soy milk with vinegar.
5. Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough?
   Yes! Try adding rosemary, garlic, or shredded cheddar for a flavorful twist.

Final Thoughts
These Buttermilk Rolls are everything a homemade bread lover dreams of—soft, golden, and rich in flavor. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal, they’ll quickly become a staple in your baking rotation. Serve them fresh, freeze them for later, or enjoy them toasted with your favorite toppings.

Give this recipe a try and share your experience in the comments below. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 200mg

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