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Small Batch Dinner Rolls

Close-up of golden brown small batch dinner rolls in a baking pan, glistening.

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Make soft, buttery dinner rolls in a small batch, perfect for a few people. This recipe requires no mixer and is quick enough for a weeknight.

Ingredients

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  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  3. Add the foamy yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the flour mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Lightly grease a small bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the dough. Divide it into 4 to 8 equal pieces.
  7. Shape each piece into a ball. Arrange the balls in a greased 8×8 inch baking pan, leaving a little space between them.
  8. Cover the pan and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
  9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  11. Brush the tops of the warm rolls with the remaining melted butter.

Notes

  • For pull-apart rolls, shape the dough into logs and arrange them seam-side down in the pan.
  • If you don’t have a thermometer, the water should feel warm but not hot to the touch.
  • You can adjust the number of rolls by dividing the dough into more or fewer pieces.

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