The smell of Freshly baked bread will always be special. Imagine soft, warm, and golden-brown dinner rolls filling your home with that cozy aroma. Crescent Roll, Puff Pastry and the list goes on. But what happens when you’re short on time – or don’t have any yeast in the pantry? Enter: the no yeast dinner roll recipe. It’s simple, quick, and delivers on texture and flavor, making it perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any meal that could use a touch of homemade charm.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make no yeast dinner rolls in a few simple steps, using ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe will soon become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need for No Yeast Dinner Rolls
To make no yeast dinner rolls, you don’t need anything too fancy. The ingredients are simple, and many of them can be substituted to fit dietary needs or personal preferences.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the basic recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Rising Flour | 2 cups | DIY option available |
| Milk | 1 cup | Any dairy or non-dairy alternative |
| Butter | 2 tbsp (melted) | For richness and texture |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Balances flavor |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp | Optional for a hint of sweetness |
- Self-Rising Flour: This type of flour already contains baking powder and salt, making it a convenient choice. If you only have all-purpose flour, you can easily make a substitute by adding 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup of flour.
- Milk: Milk adds moisture and tenderness to the rolls, and you can use regular dairy milk or opt for almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Butter: Melted butter brings richness and flavor to the dough. Brushing additional butter on the rolls after baking gives them a beautiful, glossy finish.
- Salt and Sugar: Salt enhances the overall flavor, and a bit of sugar can bring out the natural flavors and add a slight sweetness, though it’s optional.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making No Yeast Dinner Rolls
With ingredients in hand, it’s time to start baking. This process is straightforward, but a few specific techniques will help you achieve the best texture and flavor.
Step 1 – Prepare the Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the self-rising flour, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk and melted butter, then gently mix with a spatula or spoon until a rough dough forms.
- Knead Lightly: For the dough, knead gently, just enough to bring it together. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, so handle the dough with care.
Pro Tip: For lighter, fluffier rolls, avoid overworking the dough – a few gentle folds are all you need.
Step 2 – Shaping the Rolls
- Divide Dough: Use your hands or a dough cutter to portion the dough into small, even balls. Aim for about 1.5-inch rounds; this will give you around 10-12 dinner rolls.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then place the rolls close together but not touching. This positioning allows for a soft side while the tops bake to a golden finish.
Step 3 – Bake to Perfection
- Preheat and Bake: Oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, until the tops are lightly golden. The exact time may vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on the color and texture.
- Finishing Touch: Once out of the oven, brush with a bit of melted butter. This final touch adds a soft, buttery finish and an inviting sheen.
Tips and Variations for No Yeast Dinner Rolls
While the basic recipe is straightforward, there’s plenty of room to customize. Whether you’re craving a savory herb roll or a sweet, cinnamon-sugar twist, here are some variations to try.
Flavor Variations
- Cheesy Rolls: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, to the dough for a cheesy pull-apart version.
- Herbed Rolls: For a savory flavor, sprinkle in dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder. This variation pairs perfectly with Italian dishes.
- Sweet Rolls: Add an extra tablespoon of sugar and a pinch of cinnamon for a mildly sweet dinner roll that’s perfect for pairing with breakfast or brunch.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Options
- Milk Substitutes: Replace dairy milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. These alternatives work just as well and bring a subtle flavor of their own.
- Butter Substitutes: Use melted coconut oil or olive oil instead of butter to make vegan-friendly rolls. Olive oil adds a hint of earthiness that complements savory herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions about No Yeast Dinner Rolls
If you’ve got questions about no yeast rolls, you’re not alone! Here’s a quick FAQ section to help answer some of the most common concerns.
- Can I Make No Yeast Dinner Rolls with All-Purpose Flour?
- Absolutely! Just combine 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup of all-purpose flour to make a self-rising flour substitute.
- How Should I Store Leftover Rolls?
- Store in an airtight container under room temperature for about 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to restore their softness.
- Can I Make These Rolls Gluten-Free?
- Yes, use a gluten-free baking mix that includes leavening agents. You may need to adjust the milk quantity slightly for the right texture.
Final Thoughts on No Yeast Rolls
This no yeast dinner rolls recipe is perfect for those moments when you’re craving homemade bread but are short on time or ingredients. The rolls come out fluffy, golden, and wonderfully satisfying – ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or just because. Plus, with so many flavor options and variations, you can make them your own with just a few simple tweaks.
So, why not give them a try? Bake a batch, savor the flavor, and share them with friends and family. Once you’ve made these no yeast dinner rolls, you’ll always have a go-to recipe that’s ready to impress.
Related Recipes You May Enjoy
If you love these no yeast rolls, here are some other quick bread recipes to try:
- Quick Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and fluffy, these breadsticks are ready in under 30 minutes.
- No-Knead Rustic Loaf: An easy, hands-off bread recipe that’s beginner-friendly.
- Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits: A Southern-style favorite, perfect for breakfast or dinner.
Ready to bake? Don’t forget to share your results and any personal twists you’ve added to this no yeast dinner roll recipe! Happy baking!