Soft and Fluffy Amish Dinner Rolls are the gold standard of homemade bread. If you have ever stepped into an Amish bakery or enjoyed a traditional farmhouse meal, you know exactly what makes these rolls special: their incredible height, cloud-like texture, and a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with a smear of salted butter. These rolls aren’t just bread; they are a warm, comforting addition to any holiday table or Sunday dinner.
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What Makes Soft and Fluffy Amish Dinner Rolls Unique?
The secret to these legendary rolls lies in their simple, wholesome ingredients and the traditional method of preparation. Unlike modern quick breads, the Amish tradition relies on patience and high-quality fats. Traditionally, these recipes often used mashed potatoes or potato water to create an exceptionally moist crumb, though many modern versions achieve that signature pillowy texture through a specific balance of whole milk, butter, and sugar.
Why You Will Love Soft and Fluffy Amish Dinner Rolls
The primary benefit of this specific recipe is its versatility. While they are sweet enough to be enjoyed with jam at breakfast, they are sturdy enough to act as the perfect vessel for a mini turkey sandwich the next day. Because they use a enriched dough—meaning a dough with added fat and sugar—they stay fresh and soft for much longer than a standard baguette or sourdough loaf. 🥖
Essential Ingredients
- Warm Milk (110°F): 1 cup, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Active Dry Yeast: 1 tablespoon (or 1 packet).
- Sugar: 1/2 cup, to feed the yeast and provide that classic Amish sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup, melted and slightly cooled.
- Egg: 1 large egg, room temperature.
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 to 4.5 cups, added gradually.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to balance the flavors.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter and the egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
3. Incorporate the Flour: Add the salt and begin adding the flour one cup at a time. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook on low speed. Continue adding flour until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. It should be slightly tacky but not stick to your fingers.
4. The First Rise: Knead the dough for 5–7 minutes by hand or machine until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. ☁️
5. Shape the Rolls: Punch the dough down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 to 15 equal-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
6. The Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes. This second rise is crucial for achieving that Soft and Fluffy Amish Dinner Rolls texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F during this time.
7. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are a beautiful golden brown. Immediately after removing them from the oven, brush the tops with additional melted butter for a professional, glossy finish. ✨
Tips for Success
To ensure your Soft and Fluffy Amish Dinner Rolls turn out perfectly every time, make sure your milk is not too hot. Temperatures above 120°F can kill the yeast, preventing the bread from rising. Additionally, resist the urge to add too much flour; a slightly sticky dough results in a much lighter roll than a dry, heavy dough.
Conclusion
There is nothing quite like the aroma of fresh bread filling your home. This Soft and Fluffy Amish Dinner Rolls recipe brings a piece of traditional Americana to your kitchen, offering a reliable and delicious result that your family will ask for again and again. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, these rolls are guaranteed to be the star of the meal. 🥐
What is your favorite way to enjoy a warm dinner roll—plain, with honey, or stuffed with savory fillings? Let us know in the comments below!
Summary: These Amish-style rolls are an enriched yeast bread characterized by a high rise and tender crumb. By following the double-rise method and using quality ingredients like whole milk and butter, you can achieve bakery-quality results at home. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!
