Rosemary Honey Butter Dinner Rolls

Rosemary Honey Butter Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and infused with the earthy aroma of rosemary and the subtle sweetness of honey butter. These rolls are perfect for complementing a hearty main course or shining as a centerpiece at your holiday table. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, they’re a surefire way to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Pillowy Soft Texture: Light, airy rolls with a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Savory-Sweet Balance: The rosemary and honey butter combine for a delightful flavor profile.
• Versatile: Perfect for holiday feasts, weeknight dinners, or even brunch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake fresh when needed.
• Beautiful Presentation: Golden rolls brushed with glistening honey butter look as good as they taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Rolls:

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Sugar
• Warm milk
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Honey
• Salt
• Fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• Egg

For the Honey Butter Glaze:

• Unsalted butter, melted
• Honey
• Fresh rosemary, finely chopped

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and chopped rosemary.
   • Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, honey, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.
4. Let it Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls:
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 12–16 equal portions. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or in a baking dish.
6. Second Rise:
   • Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until puffy.
7. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
8. Brush with Honey Butter:
   • While the rolls are still warm, mix melted butter, honey, and chopped rosemary for the glaze. Brush generously over the rolls before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12–16 rolls
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5–2.5 hours
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 2–3 hours

Variations

• Cheese Lover’s Twist: Add shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese to the dough for extra richness.
• Garlic Infusion: Incorporate minced garlic into the honey butter for a savory flair.
• Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier roll.
• Cranberry Addition: Add dried cranberries for a holiday-inspired sweet touch.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes into the honey butter for a hint of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm rolls in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15 seconds.
• Freezing: Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used. Skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

2. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, shape the rolls and refrigerate them overnight after the second rise. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

3. What’s the best way to ensure the dough rises well?

Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free spot, such as near a preheated oven or under a warm light.

4. Can I substitute dried rosemary for fresh?

Yes, but use half the amount, as dried rosemary has a more concentrated flavor.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute plant-based milk and dairy-free butter for the milk and butter.

6. How can I prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment paper or lightly grease the pan with butter or nonstick spray.

7. Can I make smaller rolls?

Yes, divide the dough into more portions for bite-sized rolls. Reduce baking time slightly.

8. What other herbs can I use?

Thyme, sage, or parsley are great alternatives to rosemary.

9. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The tops should be golden brown, and the bottoms should sound hollow when tapped.

10. Can I use honey in the dough instead of sugar?

Yes, replace the sugar with an equal amount of honey for a consistent flavor profile.

Conclusion

Rosemary Honey Butter Dinner Rolls are a delicious and versatile addition to any meal. With their soft texture, sweet and savory flavors, and irresistible aroma, these rolls are bound to become a family favorite. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want to add a little extra warmth to your table, this recipe is sure to delight everyone who tries it. Enjoy!

Print