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Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is activated and ready to work its magic!
2. Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add in the egg, softened butter, and the yeast mixture.
- Stir until a rough dough forms, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it—this is a soft dough, and we want it to stay that way.
3. First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Rolls
- After the first rise, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12–15 equal pieces, depending on your desired roll size.
- Roll each piece into a ball, then arrange them on a greased or parchment-lined baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll for them to expand.
5. Refrigerate Overnight
- Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, then place it in the refrigerator to rise slowly overnight. This step is essential for developing that unbeatable flavor and texture.
6. Bake the Rolls
- The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the rolls out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes.
- Bake the rolls for 18–20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top. If you like, brush them with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven for extra softness and shine.
7. Enjoy Now—or Later!
- Serve the rolls warm and fresh, or store any leftovers in an airtight container for the next day. You’ll find they become even more flavorful and soft overnight!
Tips for the Best Overnight Rolls
- Warm Liquid for Yeast: Make sure your milk is warm but not hot; too much heat can kill the yeast.
- Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter incorporates better, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Don’t Skip the Overnight Rise: The slow, chilled rise helps develop flavor and makes the rolls incredibly soft.
- Try Variations: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder, dried rosemary, or grated cheese to the tops before baking for a twist on these classic rolls.
Why These Rolls Are Worth the Wait
Letting the dough rest overnight might require a bit of patience, but the payoff is worth it! The rolls develop a subtle, complex flavor, and the texture becomes even more tender and pillowy after a night in the fridge. These Soft Overnight Rolls are perfect for gatherings, dinners, or as a treat to enjoy with your morning coffee.
Whether you devour them fresh from the oven or savor them the next day, this recipe will become a favorite you’ll want to bake again and again. So, try to resist the urge to finish them all at once—they’re even better tomorrow, if you can wait that long!
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