A Thanksgiving dinner wouldn’t be complete without soft, warm, and flavorful bread rolls to accompany turkey, cranberry sauce, and all the traditional dishes. Homemade butter rolls are easy to make, aromatic, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Here’s a simple recipe, helpful tips, and ideas on how to serve them to make your celebration even more special.

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500 g) of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (10 g) salt
• 2 teaspoons (7 g) active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) warm milk
• 3 ½ tablespoons (50 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg (optional, for extra fluffiness)
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Step-by-step: How to Make Butter Rolls at Home

1. Prepare the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast), sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. This helps distribute the ingredients evenly and controls the saltiness.

3. Add the Liquids

Pour the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg (if using) into the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms.

4. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This develops gluten and results in soft, fluffy rolls.

5. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

6. Shape the Rolls

Divide the dough into 12-15 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.

7. Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a clean towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. They will puff up and be ready for baking.

8. Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

9. Serve

Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter for extra flavor. Serve warm for the best experience.

Tips for Perfect Rolls

• Use lukewarm milk: Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Knead adequately: Proper kneading develops gluten, giving the rolls their soft texture.
• Don’t skip the second rise: This step ensures fluffy, tender rolls.
• Add flavor: Mix in garlic, herbs, or cheese into the dough for a savory twist.

How to Serve Butter Rolls

These versatile rolls can be served in many ways during Thanksgiving:

• With roasted turkey: Spread with butter to complement the juicy bird.
• Make sandwiches: Fill with turkey slices, ham, cheese, or leftovers.
• With cranberry sauce: The sweetness pairs beautifully with the buttery bread.
• Toasted: Reheat in the oven or toaster and spread with butter for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Making homemade butter rolls for Thanksgiving is a simple and tasty way to add warmth and tradition to your table. Their inviting aroma and soft texture will make everyone want seconds. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch. Give it a try and enjoy a flavorful celebration with loved ones!