Easy One-Hour Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls
What’s better than fresh, hot, buttery rolls to go along with dinner? Not much, friends, not much. But since rolls can be kind of an intimidating venture to take on at home, we often find ourselves turning to that familiar refrigerated tube. Or the bagged brown-and-serve variety. And those are both serviceable dinner accompaniments, sure. But we all know there’s nothing quite like homemade… and with this easy roll recipe, there’s just no reason to resort to store-bought! Because these are done in just an hour. That’s it! They’re the perfect roll for beginning bread makers. They’re simple to make and buttery and soft and pretty much heaven-sent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls are a game-changer for anyone who loves homemade bread but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. They’re quick, easy, and require minimal effort, yet they deliver that fresh-baked aroma and soft, buttery texture we all crave. Plus, the charming cloverleaf design makes them not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Muffin tin
- Small saucepan
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
- Wooden spoon (for manual mixing)
- Large bowl
- Clean dish towels
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, divided
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Sunflower seeds and oats, for topping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Grease a muffin tin with butter and set it aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of the butter. Heat over low until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool to lukewarm (90°-110°F).
- Pour the milk mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer. Add warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
- Add 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture and mix on low speed for 1 minute using a dough hook. Gradually add the remaining flour in 1/2 cup increments, mixing until the dough starts to hold together, about 2 minutes. Continue kneading on low until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 2 minutes. (For manual mixing, stir with a wooden spoon until the dough holds together, then knead by hand for 2-3 minutes.)
- Grease a large bowl with nonstick spray or oil, and place the dough in it, turning the dough over to grease the top. Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm place for 15 minutes.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pinch off small pieces and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place three balls in each muffin cup.
- Cover the muffin tin with a clean dish towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for another 15 minutes. Meanwhile, melt the remaining butter.
- Brush the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with oats and seeds if desired. Bake until golden brown, about 9-12 minutes. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your milk is not too hot when adding the yeast, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.
- If your dough feels sticky, add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment for the best results.
Additional Tips or Variations
If you want a more savory touch, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. For a sweeter version, incorporate a tablespoon of honey into the milk mixture. You can also try different toppings like sesame seeds or poppy seeds for variety.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While the nutritional content can vary based on toppings and exact portion sizes, each serving of these buttery rolls is a delightful treat that adds a comforting touch to any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough ahead and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before forming and baking the rolls.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls and reheat them in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
These Easy One-Hour Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, bringing the warmth and aroma of homemade bread to your table. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these rolls are sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!