Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls Recipe with Easy Overnight Rise

Let me tell you, the smell of freshly baked fluffy homemade dinner rolls wafting through the kitchen is nothing short of magical. There’s this warm, yeasty aroma that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. The first time I baked these rolls, I was instantly hooked—honestly, it was one of those rare moments where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to pull these golden beauties out of the oven after an overnight rise, and the whole house would fill with that unmistakable scent of comfort. It was the kind of recipe I always wished I had a copy of, and now, after perfecting it (in the name of research, of course), I can share it with you. My family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). These rolls have become a staple for our holiday dinners, last-minute potlucks, and those quiet Sunday suppers when you just want something soft, warm, and utterly satisfying.

Let’s face it—there’s nothing quite like the pillowy softness of homemade dinner rolls, especially when they come together with an easy overnight rise. This recipe is dangerously easy, delivers pure, nostalgic comfort, and is perfect for brightening up your Pinterest cookie board or your next family feast. I promise you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

After countless baking sessions, tweaks, and happy taste testers, I can confidently say this fluffy homemade dinner rolls recipe with easy overnight rise stands out for several reasons:

• Quick & Easy: The overnight rise means minimal hands-on time, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want fresh rolls without the fuss.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any fancy stuff—just pantry staples you probably already have on hand, making this a go-to anytime recipe.
• Perfect for Every Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a cozy family meal, or a potluck, these rolls fit right in and impress every time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of their soft texture and buttery flavor.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The secret overnight rise gives the dough time to develop flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth softness that’s hard to beat.

This isn’t just any dinner roll recipe—it’s the one that makes you close your eyes for a second after the first bite. The balance of a slightly sweet, buttery crumb with a tender crust is something I’ve worked hard to perfect. Plus, the overnight rise means you can prep dough the day before and wake up to rolls ready to bake, which is a game changer for busy folks who still want that homemade touch.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver that bold flavor and satisfying texture without any fuss. Most of these are pantry staples, and substitutions are easy if needed.

• All-purpose flour (4 cups / 480 g): The base of our rolls. I recommend King Arthur for consistent texture.
• Warm whole milk (1 cup / 240 ml): Feeds the yeast and adds richness (use dairy-free alternative if needed).
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons / 1 packet): The magic behind the rise—make sure it’s fresh.
• Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Just enough to sweeten and help the yeast bloom.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons / 56 g), softened: Adds richness and tenderness.
• Large eggs (2), room temperature: Gives structure and richness to the dough.
• Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Optional: melted butter for brushing: Brushed on top right after baking for that golden shine and extra yum.

If you want a gluten-free version, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1. For a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk works beautifully, and coconut oil can replace butter. When selecting milk, warm it to about 110°F (43°C); too hot and you’ll kill the yeast, too cold and it won’t activate properly.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl: For combining and proofing the dough. Glass or stainless steel works best.
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional): Makes kneading a breeze, but you can knead by hand too.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for consistent rolls.
• Kitchen thermometer: Helpful for warming milk to the perfect temperature.
• Baking dish or sheet pan: A 9×13-inch baking pan is ideal for evenly shaped rolls.
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel: To cover the dough during rising.

If you don’t have a stand mixer, no worries—kneading by hand is perfectly doable and even a bit therapeutic. Just make sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes). I’ve tried budget-friendly silicone spatulas and wooden spoons for mixing, and they’re great for getting the dough started before kneading.

Preparation Method

1. Bloom the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (110°F / 43°C), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old—start over with fresh yeast.
2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until the dough starts coming together.
3. Knead the dough: Knead by hand on a floured surface or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
4. First rise – overnight: Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours). This slow rise develops flavor and tenderness.
5. Shape the rolls: The next morning, take the dough out and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Punch down gently and divide into 12 equal pieces (about 2 oz / 57 g each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spaced evenly.
6. Second rise: Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours, until puffy and nearly doubled.
7. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) about 15 minutes before baking.
8. Bake: Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes until golden brown on top and hollow-sounding when tapped. If you notice over-browning, tent with foil loosely halfway through.
9. Brush with butter: Remove from oven and immediately brush with melted butter for that irresistibly shiny, soft crust.
10. Cool and enjoy: Let rolls cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to lock in softness but beware—they’re dangerously good warm!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Let me share a few nuggets of wisdom I picked up over many batches of these rolls. First, patience is your best friend here. The overnight rise isn’t just a time saver—it’s what makes these rolls extra fluffy and full of flavor. Don’t rush it.

When kneading, if your dough feels too sticky, add flour sparingly. Too much flour can make the rolls dense, so err on the side of tacky dough that springs back when poked. If you don’t have a kitchen thermometer, test the milk by touch—it should feel warm but not hot (think baby bath temperature).

Another trick is to cover the dough tightly during rising to avoid a dry crust, which can ruin texture. I’ve learned the hard way that drafts or dry air can make the dough form a tough skin. Using a damp towel helps keep the moisture in.

Also, don’t skip the butter brush after baking—it’s a small step that adds a ton of flavor and keeps the crust soft. If you want that classic golden finish, a light egg wash before baking works too, but butter is my go-to for richness.

Finally, if you’re short on time, you can do a same-day rise by letting the dough rise twice at room temp (about 2 hours each), but the overnight method really yields the best texture and flavor.

Variations & Adaptations

• Herb-Infused Rolls: Add 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an earthy twist perfect for dinner parties.
• Whole Wheat Version: Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add nuttiness and fiber. Your rolls will be a bit heartier but still soft.
• Sweet Dinner Rolls: Increase sugar to 1/4 cup (50g) and add a teaspoon of cinnamon for a slightly sweet, cozy roll great for breakfast or brunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum. Expect a slightly different texture but still delicious and fluffy.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute milk with your favorite plant-based milk and butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

I once swapped in mashed roasted garlic into the dough for a savory garlic roll that disappeared fast at a family barbecue. It’s fun to experiment with add-ins like cheese, seeds, or even a hint of honey for unique flavor profiles.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These fluffy homemade dinner rolls are best served warm—straight from the oven or reheated gently. I like to present them in a lined basket with a pat of butter on the side for a cozy touch. They pair beautifully with soups, stews, roasted meats, or just slathered with jam for breakfast.

To store, place cooled rolls in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped for up to 3 months. When reheating, wrap in foil and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave covered with a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds—this helps keep them soft.

Over time, the flavors mellow and deepen a bit, so leftovers can be great for sandwiches or toasting. Just be careful—they’re so good, you might find they vanish before you get a chance!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each roll contains approximately 150 calories, with 5 grams of fat, 22 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of protein. The use of whole milk and butter adds richness and some calcium, while eggs contribute protein and essential nutrients.

This recipe can be easily adapted for dietary needs, including gluten-free and dairy-free options. Using whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients, making the rolls a bit more wholesome. They’re a comforting, energy-packed addition to any meal, giving you that satisfying home-baked feel without overly processed ingredients.

Conclusion

If you’re after a reliable, delicious fluffy homemade dinner rolls recipe with easy overnight rise, this one is a keeper. It’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel special and holiday tables shine. I love how you can prep it ahead, which saves time but doesn’t sacrifice that fresh-baked goodness.

Feel free to tweak the flavors and textures to your liking—maybe herbs one day, a touch of sweetness the next. I’d love to hear how your rolls turn out or any creative spins you try. So, grab your mixing bowl and give these a whirl—you won’t regret it!

Don’t forget to drop a comment below, share your photos, or tell me your favorite roll variations. Happy baking!

FAQs About Fluffy Homemade Dinner Rolls with Overnight Rise

Can I skip the overnight rise and make these rolls the same day?

Yes, but the texture and flavor won’t be quite as rich. You’ll need two quicker rises at room temperature (about 2 hours each), which works in a pinch.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover dinner rolls?

Wrap them in foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave covered with a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds to keep them soft.

Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Absolutely! Shape the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, thaw and rise before baking.

Why did my rolls turn out dense?

Common causes include using too much flour, not kneading enough, or yeast that’s past its prime. Make sure to measure carefully and knead until elastic.

Can I add flavors like garlic or cheese to the rolls?

Yes! Mixing in roasted garlic, herbs, or shredded cheese before the first rise adds delicious twists. Just be mindful of moisture content to keep dough manageable.

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