Ah, Thanksgiving! A time of family gathering, heartwarming memories, and of course, the glorious feast that takes center stage. There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? For me, no Thanksgiving is complete without my go-to recipe for **Soft & Buttery Lion House Dinner Rolls**. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and practically melt in your mouth—perfect for scooping up gravy or just enjoying with a large pat of butter.
I still remember the first time I made these rolls. It was my first Thanksgiving hosting dinner, and my wonderful aunt insisted that homemade rolls were the way to go. She graciously handed me the recipe, and I can honestly say my life changed for the better that day! The smiles around the table were truly priceless, and now, every year, they’re non-negotiable. They’ve become a little tradition in my home and, let me tell you, they steal the show every single time!
What’s in Soft & Buttery Lion House Dinner Rolls?
All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of our rolls. Four cups will give them structure and softness, and you might need a pinch more for dusting during kneading. I tend to grab a high-quality brand like King Arthur Flour for the best results.
Granulated sugar: A quarter cup adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance out the flavors and encourage that beautiful golden crust during baking.
Active dry yeast: This is the magic ingredient that makes the rolls rise! A packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) will help give the dough that extra lift.
Warm milk: It not only activates the yeast but also enriches the dough. Make sure to warm it to about 110°F—too hot, and you’ll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly.
Unsalted butter: Half a cup of melted butter (plus more for brushing) adds rich flavor and helps create that soft texture we all crave. The unsalted kind is key here, as it lets us control the overall saltiness of the rolls.
Large eggs: Two of these lovely gems provide richness and help in binding the dough together. An additional egg is used for the egg wash to give that golden sheen.
Salt: Just one teaspoon enhances flavor—important for those delightful results.
Warm water: This helps to activate the yeast as well—make sure it’s warm but not boiling, at about 110°F.
Is Soft & Buttery Lion House Dinner Rolls Good for You?
Now, while these rolls are undeniably delicious and a staple for many holiday tables, we should also talk about their health aspects.
All-purpose flour: It’s not the most nutrient-dense option, but you can substitute half with whole-wheat flour for a bit more fiber if you’re feeling adventurous (just keep the ratio in mind!).
Sugar: I mean, it’s a baked good; sugar is kind of a must here. You can opt for lower-sugar substitutes if you prefer, but they might alter the taste and texture a smidge.
Butter: It adds heaps of flavor and a lovely texture to the rolls but keep in mind it’s high in saturated fats. Moderation is key, right?
Overall, these soft and buttery rolls are lovely additions to a balanced meal—just enjoy them in moderation, and you’ll be fine!
Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
– 1 cup milk, warmed (about 110°F or 43°C)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and divided
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– Additional melted butter for brushing
Servings: 12-15 rolls
How to Make Soft & Buttery Lion House Dinner Rolls?
1. Start by dissolving the yeast in warm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This is where the magic begins!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and 1/4 cup of melted butter. After a bit, whisk in the eggs and the frothy yeast mixture.
3. In another bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until you’ve got a nice soft dough.
4. Now it’s kneading time! Knead that dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Add extra flour if it gets sticky.
5. Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size—about 1-2 hours, depending on the warmth of your kitchen.
6. When your dough has risen, punch it down! The fun part! Divide it into 12-15 equal pieces and shape each into a smooth ball.
7. Place those lovely rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they’re spaced evenly. Cover and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffy.
8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of the rolls to get that golden finish.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
11. Remove from the oven, brush with additional melted butter, and let cool slightly before serving. You made it!
Serve with a Splash of Joy!
These rolls are perfect on their own, but don’t hesitate to serve them with a generous dab of butter or even a side of cranberry sauce for that festive touch. They can be made ahead of time, which is super handy amidst the Thanksgiving madness! Just wrap them in foil and warm them up in the oven before serving.
I can’t wait for you to try these amazing rolls! They’ve become a cherished addition to my Thanksgiving celebrations, and I know they will enchant your guests too. So gather the family, throw on some festive music, and bake to your heart’s content. I’d love to hear how yours turn out—happy baking!
