Fluffy Milk Roll Bread Recipe

Fluffy milk roll bread is soft, tender, slightly sweet, and full of comfort. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, alongside dinner, or for making mini sandwiches. This comprehensive recipe will guide you through each step of the process — from activating the yeast to pulling golden brown rolls fresh from the oven.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
1/4 cup sugar
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg, room temperature

(Optional for finishing: 1 tablespoon melted butter for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl or measuring cup:

Combine the warm milk and sugar.
Stir to dissolve the sugar.
Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until the surface becomes foamy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer):

Whisk together the flour and salt.
Add the foamy yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg.
Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes, until the dough is soft, smooth, and elastic.
If the dough is sticky, add more flour a little at a time (no more than 1/4 cup total), just until manageable.

4. First Rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel.
Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough to release air.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
Divide into 8 to 12 equal pieces, depending on how large you want your rolls.
Shape each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath and rolling gently.

6. Second Rise

Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Leave a little space between them to allow for expansion.
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

7. Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown on top and hollow-sounding when tapped.

8. Finishing Touch

Optional: While the rolls are still warm, brush the tops with melted butter for a glossy, tender finish.

Storage Tips:

Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Make-Ahead: You can refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight (before the second rise) and bake them fresh the next morning.

Variations & Additions:

Honey Butter Rolls: Replace sugar with honey and brush with honey-butter after baking.
Garlic & Herb: Add minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs to the dough or butter glaze.
Cheese Stuffed: Insert a small cube of cheese into each roll before baking.