Quick Jumbo Dinner Rolls – Big, Buttery & Incredibly Fluffy

Few things are as universally comforting as freshly baked bread, and when that bread comes in the form of warm, buttery dinner rolls, it instantly elevates any meal. Quick Jumbo Dinner Rolls are the perfect combination of convenience, softness, and classic homemade flavor. Designed to be large, fluffy, and irresistibly tender, these rolls are ideal for family dinners, holiday tables, special gatherings, or even everyday meals when you want something a little extra comforting.

Unlike traditional yeast rolls that require hours of proofing and careful timing, this recipe streamlines the process without sacrificing quality. With a relatively short rise time and straightforward steps, these rolls are accessible to both beginner and experienced bakers. The result is a batch of beautifully golden rolls with a soft interior, a lightly crisp exterior, and a rich buttery flavor that pairs well with nearly any dish.

These Quick Jumbo Dinner Rolls are versatile enough to serve alongside soups, stews, roasts, and salads, yet indulgent enough to be enjoyed on their own with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. Their size makes them especially appealing—each roll is substantial, making them perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or simply soaking up sauces and gravies.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know to successfully make these rolls at home. We’ll explore the role of each ingredient, walk through the preparation process step by step, offer helpful baking tips, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure consistent, bakery-quality results every time.

Ingredients

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in creating rolls that are fluffy, flavorful, and structurally sound. Using the correct measurements and paying attention to temperature—especially for the milk and yeast—will ensure optimal results.

You will need:

• 1 cup warm whole milk (105–110°F)
  Warm milk activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough, resulting in softer rolls.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  This is the leavening agent that allows the dough to rise and creates a light, airy texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  Sugar feeds the yeast, supports fermentation, and adds subtle sweetness.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  Butter enhances flavor and tenderness while contributing to a soft crumb.
• 1 large egg, room temperature
  The egg adds structure, moisture, and richness to the dough.
• 1 teaspoon salt
  Salt balances the sweetness and strengthens the dough’s structure.
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  Flour forms the base of the dough. The exact amount may vary depending on humidity and flour type.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing
  Brushing the rolls after baking adds flavor, softness, and a glossy finish.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm whole milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently to combine, then let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes. During this time, the yeast should become foamy and bubbly, indicating that it is active and ready to use.

If no foam forms, the yeast may be inactive, or the milk may have been too hot or too cold. Proper yeast activation is essential for a good rise.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add the melted and slightly cooled butter, room-temperature egg, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This step ensures even distribution of fats and seasoning throughout the dough.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Add 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour to the bowl. Using a dough hook attachment or a sturdy spoon, mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable but still slightly tacky.

Avoid adding too much flour, as this can result in dense rolls rather than soft, fluffy ones.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes using a stand mixer or about 10 minutes by hand. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. Proper kneading develops gluten, which helps the dough trap air and rise effectively.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 30–45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

This shorter rise time is what makes these rolls “quick” while still delivering excellent texture.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release excess air. Divide it into 9 to 12 equal portions, depending on your desired roll size. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath and rolling gently between your hands.

Step 7: Second Rise

Arrange the dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a small amount of space between each roll. Cover and let rise for 20–30 minutes, until the rolls look puffy and have expanded.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and baked through. The internal temperature should reach approximately 190°F for fully baked rolls.

Step 9: Finish with Butter

Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter. This adds flavor, keeps the crust soft, and gives the rolls an appealing shine. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Jumbo Dinner Rolls

• Milk temperature matters: Keep milk between 105–110°F to avoid killing the yeast.
• Do not over-flour: A slightly tacky dough yields softer rolls.
• Even sizing: Dividing the dough evenly ensures consistent baking.
• Warm rising environment: A warm kitchen speeds up fermentation and improves texture.
• Butter brushing: Brushing immediately after baking locks in moisture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Quick Jumbo Dinner Rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap rolls in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes.

For longer storage, the baked rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving. The dough can also be prepared ahead and refrigerated after shaping, then baked fresh when needed.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll)

• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

These rolls provide a balanced indulgence—rich and satisfying without being overly heavy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?
Yes. The dough can be mixed with a spoon and kneaded by hand. It will simply require a bit more time and effort.

2. Why didn’t my dough rise properly?
This is often due to inactive yeast or incorrect milk temperature. Always ensure the yeast is fresh and the milk is warm, not hot.

3. Can I make smaller rolls?
Absolutely. Divide the dough into more portions and reduce baking time slightly.

4. Can I add extra flavors?
Yes. Herbs, garlic, or cheese can be added to the dough for variation, without changing the base recipe.

5. Can these rolls be used for sandwiches?
Yes. Their jumbo size and soft texture make them excellent for sliders or sandwich rolls.

6. How do I keep rolls soft after baking?
Brushing with butter and storing them in an airtight container helps retain moisture.

7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles well. Just ensure you have a large enough mixing bowl and bake in batches if needed.

Conclusion

Quick Jumbo Dinner Rolls are a perfect example of how homemade baking can be both simple and rewarding. With minimal ingredients, a streamlined process, and reliable results, these rolls offer the comfort of traditional yeast bread without the lengthy preparation time. Their soft interior, golden crust, and rich buttery flavor make them suitable for everyday meals and special occasions alike.

Whether served alongside a hearty dinner, used as sandwich bread, or enjoyed warm with butter, these rolls consistently deliver satisfaction. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can confidently produce bakery-quality dinner rolls in your own kitchen.

Once you try these Quick Jumbo Dinner Rolls, they’re likely to become a permanent favorite—proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable.

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