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Skillet Dinner Rolls Recipe

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4.1 from 40 reviews

These soft and fluffy skillet dinner rolls are perfect for any meal. Made with simple ingredients and baked in a cast iron skillet, they develop a beautiful golden crust and tender crumb. They require two rises to achieve the perfect airy texture and are finished with a buttery glaze for rich flavor.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. First rise: Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place until it doubles in size.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American