Soft, Fluffy, and Irresistible

If there’s one recipe that has been passed down through generations and consistently brings people together, it’s Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls. These soft, buttery rolls are the perfect accompaniment to any meal and have a nostalgic charm that makes them a favorite in family gatherings and holiday feasts. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is for anyone who wants to master the art of making fluffy, golden dinner rolls from scratch.

Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer

Aunt Shirley’s dinner rolls are a classic for good reason. They strike the perfect balance between soft, pillowy texture and a rich, buttery flavor. The dough is easy to work with, even for beginners, and the rolls are versatile enough to pair with a wide variety of dishes. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about making bread by hand and watching it rise to perfection. If you’ve ever been intimidated by baking with yeast, this recipe will guide you step by step and leave you with a newfound confidence.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This recipe is ideal for:

Home cooks looking for a reliable dinner roll recipe that never fails.
Families who want to create cherished mealtime traditions.
Anyone hosting a holiday meal or special occasion.
Bakers who want to add a timeless classic to their repertoire.

Let’s dive into the details and bring Aunt Shirley’s magic to your table!

Ingredients for Success

You Will Need:

½ cup water
2 tablespoons active dry yeast
2 teaspoons white sugar
2 cups milk
⅓ cup white sugar
2 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
¼ cup butter-flavored shortening or real butter
1 egg
5-6 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
4 tablespoons melted butter for brushing

Kitchen Equipment:

Microwave or stovetop (for warming liquids)
Large mixing bowl or stand mixer with a dough hook
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Tea towels or plastic wrap
Two baking pans (one 9×13 pan and one 2-quart casserole dish)
Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl or coffee mug, microwave ½ cup water for 20-30 seconds until lukewarm (not hot). Stir in the yeast and 2 teaspoons of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes. Watch closely to ensure it doesn’t overflow.

2. Prepare the Dough Base

Microwave 2 cups of milk for 1-2 minutes until warm but not hot. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine ⅓ cup sugar, kosher salt, shortening (or butter), and 2 cups of flour. Stir together with a wooden spoon. Add the warm milk, yeast mixture, and egg. Mix well and let the dough rest for 5 minutes.

3. Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add 4 more cups of flour, one cup at a time, mixing between each addition. Continue until the dough becomes smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but workable. Knead the dough for 5-6 minutes, either by hand or using a dough hook.

4. First Rise

Grease a large bowl with oil or butter and place the dough inside. Turn the dough to coat it in the grease, cover with a tea towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1 hour).

5. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and divide it into 24 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by pinching one end with your fingers. Arrange the rolls in two greased baking pans.

6. Second Rise

Cover the pans with tea towels and let the rolls rise in a warm spot for another 30-45 minutes, until doubled in size. Preheat your oven to 375°F while the rolls are rising.

7. Bake to Perfection

Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Remove from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes and Tips

Use the Right Temperature

Make sure your liquids are lukewarm (around 110°F) to properly activate the yeast. Too hot or too cold, and the yeast won’t work.

Adjusting Flour

The amount of flour needed can vary depending on humidity and other factors. Add flour gradually and stop once the dough is soft and slightly sticky.

Make Ahead

Prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Variations

Add a tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
Sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt for a savory twist.
Mix in fresh herbs or shredded cheese for flavored rolls.

Storing Leftovers

These dinner rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but leftovers can be stored:

At room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
In the freezer: Wrap rolls tightly in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Pairing Suggestions

Aunt Shirley’s dinner rolls pair beautifully with:

Soups and Stews: A warm bowl of chicken noodle or beef stew.
Holiday Meals: Turkey, ham, or roast beef.
Breakfast: Slice them open and serve with butter and jam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?

Yes! Simply mix the instant yeast directly into the flour and proceed with the recipe as written. You can skip the activation step.

What Can I Use Instead of Shortening?

Real butter works perfectly as a substitute for shortening. It adds a richer flavor to the rolls.

How Do I Know When the Dough Has Risen Enough?

The dough should double in size. To test, gently press your finger into the dough; if the indentation remains, it’s ready.

Join the Tradition!

Now that you’ve discovered Aunt Shirley’s Famous Homemade Dinner Rolls, it’s time to bring this timeless recipe into your home. Whether for a family dinner or a festive holiday table, these rolls are sure to impress and create lasting memories.

If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, tips, and kitchen inspiration. Happy baking!

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