Homemade Dinner Rolls

Homemade Dinner Rolls

These soft whole wheat dinner rolls are perfect for holiday meals, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want fresh homemade bread. Learn three easy shaping methods—round rolls, twists, and cloverleaf rolls—that kids can help make.

Prep Time: 35 minutes plus rising time
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Makes: 16 rolls

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 (12 oz.) can fat-free evaporated milk, warmed to 100-110°F
• 4 cups whole white wheat flour, divided
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cornmeal
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. In a large bowl, stir the sugar and yeast into the warm milk. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add 3 cups of the flour and the beaten egg. Mix until smooth. Let rest for 15 minutes.
3. Stir in the salt and about 3/4 cup of the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding the remaining flour a little at a time only if needed.
5. Lightly grease a large bowl with cooking spray. Place dough in the bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 45-60 minutes, or until doubled.
6. Punch down the dough and let rest for 5 minutes.
7. Divide dough into 16 equal pieces.
8. Shape into your favorite roll style (see below).
9. Sprinkle a baking sheet with cornmeal and arrange the rolls about 2 inches apart.
10. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray, cover loosely, and let rise another 30-40 minutes until doubled.
11. Preheat oven to 400°F.
12. Brush the tops with melted butter.
13. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.
14. Cool on a wire rack and serve warm.