Ingredients
Yeast Mixture
- 1/3 cup (90g) warm water (about 105-110°F)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (from total sugar amount)
Dough
- 2 Tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar (remaining)
- 4 Tablespoons salted butter, softened, divided
- 1/3 cup (82g) milk
- 2 cups (280g) all-purpose or bread flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
Instructions
- Soften yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes or until it becomes foamy to activate the yeast.
- Warm milk and butter: Cube 2 tablespoons of softened butter and place in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the milk and microwave for 30 seconds, or until the butter mostly melts. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes before using.
- Make dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the milk-butter mixture, egg yolk, and activated yeast mixture. Knead the dough using a dough hook or by hand for about 5 minutes until it is soft, smooth, and slightly pulls away from the bowl sides without being too sticky. If very sticky, add 1 to 2 tablespoons more flour as needed.
- First rise: Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place until it doubles in size.
- Divide into rolls: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal balls, each about 45g. Arrange the dough balls evenly in a 12-inch cast iron skillet. Cover with a towel and allow them to rise a second time for 1 hour.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skillet in the middle oven rack and bake the rolls for 18 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and immediately brush the rolls with the remaining 2 tablespoons of softened butter for a shiny, flavorful finish. Serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure your water is not too hot when activating yeast to avoid killing the yeast.
- If the dough is too sticky, gradually add extra flour to avoid dense rolls.
- Using a cast iron skillet helps develop a crisp crust while keeping the inside soft.
- Butter the rolls immediately after baking to add flavor and moisture.
- These rolls freeze well; thaw and warm before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American