Dinner Rolls with Whipped Cinnamon Butter
The perfect addition to your holiday gatherings -- or just because!
There’s something so grounding about bread baking—the way a few simple ingredients come together to create something warm, soft, and undeniably comforting. It’s a reminder of how little we need to create something extraordinary.
Paired with my whipped cinnamon butter, this recipe is an effortless way to bring joy to your table. It’s one of those recipes I’ve been making for years, and every time, I’m reminded of its magic. It’s a simple recipe, yet it has a way of taking a humble roll and transforming it into something truly special. I’ve been making this butter for years now, and I always get asked for the recipe—it’s one of those crowd-pleasers. The best part? It’s easy to whip up, and my husband, with his sweet tooth, is always thrilled when I do.
Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a quiet weekend breakfast, these simple yet irresistible flavors never fail to impress. Let me share my secrets with you!
Ingredients for Dinner Rolls:
• 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• Optional: Additional melted butter for brushing
Ingredients for Whipped Cinnamon Butter:
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (optional)
Ingredients for Dinner Rolls:
• 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• Optional: Additional melted butter for brushing
Ingredients for Whipped Cinnamon Butter:
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Add melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
• Knead by hand or with a stand mixer for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
• Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined sheet.
Step 5: Second Rise
• Cover the rolls and let rise for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
Step 6: Bake
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter while warm. Optional: sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.
Instructions for Whipped Cinnamon Butter
1. Whip the Butter:
In a medium mixing bowl, whip softened butter with a hand mixer until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
2. Mix in Flavors:
Add powdered sugar, honey, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and airy.
3. Serve or Store:
Serve alongside warm dinner rolls. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
This combination of warm, buttery rolls with a hint of cinnamon sweetness is irresistible! Perfect for holiday meals, brunches, or a cozy weeknight dinner.