Tried & True Honey Butter Rolls

Name: Tried & True Honey Butter Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (240ml) warm whole milk (110°F/43°C); 2 and 1/4 teaspoons (7g) Platinum Yeast (or 1 packet active dry yeast); 1/4 cup (85g) + 1 teaspoon honey, divided; 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk; 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, melted; 3 and 1/2 cups (455g) bread flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) very soft unsalted butter (for topping); 2 tablespoons (42g) honey (for topping)

By:

jeremy

Published:

October 2, 2025

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While browsing through family favorites, you may have stumbled upon the delightful Tried & True Honey Butter Rolls. These rolls are not just any dinner bread; they bring a warm and inviting aroma that envelops you as they bake, promising comfort with each bite. Imagine pulling apart a soft, pillowy roll and seeing that buttery honey melt into its fluffy surface. It’s a treat that sparks nostalgia, often reminding us of cozy family dinners or the warm kitchen of a loved one. The joy of baking these rolls is as much about the process as it is about the taste. They’re simpler than you’d think, making them a perfect project for both seasoned bakers and beginners. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that makes everyone at the table feel right at home? So let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on creating these sweet, buttery gems!

Why This Recipe Works

To understand why these Tried & True Honey Butter Rolls are a go-to recipe, let’s break down what makes them special. First, yeast plays a crucial role in creating that fluffy texture we all crave. When combined with warm ingredients, it activates and helps the dough rise beautifully. Speaking of warmth, the temperature of your ingredients is vital. Using warm milk, around 110°F (43°C), encourages the yeast to work its magic.

Then, there’s the balance of sweetness from the honey butter. It enhances flavor without being too overpowering. This delightful sweet touch complements the rich, buttery rolls, making each bite a pleasure.

Why You’ll Love This Tried & True Honey Butter Rolls

These rolls aren’t just soft; they’re a perfect blend of flavor and texture. When you pull one apart, you’ll find it fluffy with a beautifully golden crust. Drizzled with honey butter, they’re little bites of heaven. They fit any occasion, whether it’s a Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or a cozy breakfast on a chilly morning.

But it gets better. Each bite can whisk you back to fond family memories, making these rolls not just food but a nostalgic experience. There’s something magical about sharing soft rolls with loved ones, each bite filled with warmth and happiness.

Ingredients for Tried & True Honey Butter Rolls

To create these delicious rolls, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup (240ml) warm whole milk (110°F/43°C)
2 and 1/4 teaspoons (7g) Platinum Yeast (or 1 packet active dry yeast)
1/4 cup (85g) + 1 teaspoon honey, divided
1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, melted
3 and 1/2 cups (455g) bread flour (spooned & leveled)
1 teaspoon salt

Topping:

1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) very soft unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (42g) honey

Preparing the Dough

Whisking Yeast and Honey

Start by bringing your warm milk to the right temperature. In a bowl, combine this milk, the yeast, and 1 teaspoon of honey. Cover it up and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This is when the magic begins—watch for it to turn foamy, which means your yeast is active and ready to go.

Mixing Ingredients

Next, grab your stand mixer and set it on low speed. Add the remaining honey, your egg, egg yolk, melted butter, 3 cups of flour, and salt. Allow everything to come together until mixed. Once that’s done, gradually add the remaining flour until you have a nice dough forming.

Kneading the Dough

Now comes the fun part—kneading! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll want it smooth and elastic, so keep working until it’s slightly sticky yet pulls away from the bowl sides. This is the foundation for your soft rolls.

Rising the Dough

1st Rise

Next, it’s time for the dough to rise! Lightly grease a large bowl and place your dough inside. Cover it up and let it rest in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours. You’ll want to see it double in size; this step is all about giving your rolls that perfect fluff.

Shaping the Rolls

Dividing and Shaping

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air. Divide it into 15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and arrange these in a greased baking pan.

2nd Rise

Now, it’s time for another rise! Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap and allow them to puff up for about 1 hour. They might look small now, but they will rise beautifully!

Baking the Rolls

Preheating and Baking

With your rolls ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake them for 20 to 25 minutes, until they are golden brown. The smell will fill your kitchen, and you may have to resist the urge to sneak a bite before they’re ready!

Making Honey Butter Topping

Mixing the Topping

While the rolls are baking, let’s prepare the honey butter. Simply combine the very soft butter and honey in a bowl. Mix until it’s nice and creamy. Once you pull those warm rolls from the oven, spread the honey butter generously over the top. It will melt and soak into the rolls—pure bliss!

Serving Suggestions

These rolls are best enjoyed warm. Serve them alongside soups or salads, or at brunch with fresh fruit. They also pair beautifully with roasted meats and vegetables, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

Tips for Success

To ensure your rolls turn out perfectly, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Measure your ingredients accurately—especially flour, as too much can impact texture.
Keep your dough warm during the rising process to support proper development.
Be cautious not to over-knead. This ensures your rolls remain light and fluffy.

Variations

Feel free to have some fun with these rolls! You can experiment with flavored honey, like lavender or spicy varieties, giving a unique twist. If savory appeals to you, consider adding garlic or fresh herbs into the dough.

Pairing Ideas

For the ultimate experience, enjoy these rolls with homemade jams or your favorite preserves. They also work wonderfully in a bread basket alongside a selection of cheeses, enhancing your table setting.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?

Yes! However, keep in mind this may change the texture and rise. A blend of half whole wheat and half bread flour often works well.

How long can I store the rolls?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for three months if stored properly.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Certainly! Prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it for an overnight rise. Shape and bake them fresh in the morning.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

First ensure your yeast is fresh. Warmer liquids are essential; too hot can kill the yeast.

Can these rolls be reheated?

Absolutely! You can warm them in a 300°F (149°C) oven for 10 minutes, and they’ll taste just like fresh!

These Tried & True Honey Butter Rolls promise to be a delightful addition to your meals, offering a sweet flavor and a pillow-like texture that will make you want seconds. Whether served warm from the oven or lovingly reheated later, they bring love and joy to every table. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll quickly become a cherished recipe among your family and friends.