There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked yeast rolls wafting through your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, a holiday feast, or a casual get-together, homemade yeast rolls are the perfect complement. Here are 20 irresistibly fluffy homemade yeast roll recipes to suit any occasion.

1. Classic Dinner Rolls

These rolls are buttery, soft, and perfect for soaking up gravy or sauces. Simple yet timeless, they are a staple for any dinner table.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour, active dry yeast, milk, butter, and sugar.

Recipe Method:

• Activate 1 packet of active dry yeast in 1 cup of warm milk with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
• In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture with 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
• Gradually add 3 to 3.5 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
• Punch down the dough and divide it into 12-15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
• Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for a second time for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
• Brush the hot rolls with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven for a soft, shiny finish.

2. Garlic Herb Rolls

Infused with garlic and fresh herbs, these rolls bring a burst of flavor to your meal. They’re perfect for serving alongside Italian dishes or a hearty roast.

Ingredients

Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, rosemary, and garlic butter.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a classic dinner roll dough as described above.
• In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter with 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, rosemary, and thyme). Let it cool slightly.
• Add half of the garlic herb butter to the dough mixture along with the flour.
• Knead the dough and let it go through its first rise until doubled.
• Punch down the dough, shape it into rolls, and place them on a baking sheet.
• Let the rolls rise a second time for about 30 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Gently brush the tops of the risen rolls with some of the remaining garlic herb butter.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
• Brush the hot rolls with the last of the warm garlic herb butter as soon as they come out of the oven.

3. Honey Butter Yeast Rolls

These rolls are sweet, fluffy, and glazed with warm honey butter for a touch of indulgence. They are a hit at brunch or holiday spreads.

Recipe Method:

• Activate 1 packet of yeast in 1 cup of warm milk.
• In a large bowl, mix the yeast mixture with 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
• Gradually add 3 to 3.5 cups of all-purpose flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
• Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes.
• Let the dough rise in a covered, greased bowl for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
• Shape the dough into 12 rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.
• Let the rolls rise for a second time for 30-45 minutes.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
• While baking, melt 1/4 cup of butter with 2 tablespoons of honey to create a glaze.
• Brush the hot rolls generously with the honey butter glaze immediately after baking.

4. Whole Wheat Yeast Rolls

Hearty, nutritious, and slightly nutty in flavor, these rolls are a healthier alternative without compromising softness.

Ideal Pairing

Serve with soups or stews for a wholesome meal.

• Activate 1 packet of yeast in 1 cup of warm water with 1 tablespoon of honey.
• In a large bowl, combine 1.5 cups of whole wheat flour, 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
• Add the yeast mixture, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 egg to the dry ingredients.
• Mix and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth (it will be slightly denser than white dough).
• Let the dough rise in a covered, greased bowl for 1-1.5 hours.
• Punch down the dough, shape it into 12 rolls, and place on a baking sheet.
• Cover and let the rolls rise for a second time, about 45-60 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 15-20 minutes until deep golden brown.
• Brush with melted butter for a soft crust.

5. Parker House Rolls

Known for their folded, buttery layers, these rolls are pillowy and rich. A classic that never goes out of style.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a rich, buttery yeast roll dough using milk, sugar, and eggs.
• Let the dough complete its first rise until it has doubled in size.
• On a floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
• Use a 2.5 to 3-inch round cutter to cut out circles of dough.
• Brush the surface of each circle generously with melted butter.
• Using the back of a butter knife, create a crease just off-center on each circle.
• Fold the larger section of dough over the smaller section, creating the signature pocketbook shape.
• Place the folded rolls close together in a greased baking pan.
• Cover and let them rise a second time for about 45 minutes, until puffy and touching.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden, then brush with more melted butter.

6. Buttermilk Yeast Rolls

With a slight tang from the buttermilk, these rolls are extra fluffy and tender. They pair beautifully with Southern comfort food.

Recipe Method:

• Gently warm 1 cup of buttermilk to about 110°F (43°C). Be careful not to overheat it.
• Activate 1 packet of yeast in the warm buttermilk with 2 tablespoons of sugar.
• In a large bowl, mix flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and salt.
• Add the buttermilk/yeast mixture, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 egg to the dry ingredients.
• Knead the dough until soft and smooth.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
• Shape the dough into 12 balls and place them in a greased round baking pan.
• Let the rolls rise for a second time until puffy, about 30 minutes.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
• Brush with melted butter immediately after taking them out of the oven.

7. Cheddar Chive Rolls

Savory and cheesy, these rolls are studded with sharp cheddar and fresh chives. They add a flavorful twist to any meal.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a standard dinner roll dough.
• After the flour is mostly incorporated, knead in 1.5 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of fresh chopped chives.
• Continue kneading until the cheese and chives are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
• Let the dough complete its first rise in a covered bowl until doubled.
• Punch down the dough and shape it into 12-15 rolls.
• Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet and let them rise a second time.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Just before baking, brush the rolls with an egg wash or melted butter.
• Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar on top of each roll.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.

8. Pull-Apart Cloverleaf Rolls

These rolls are easy to share and fun to eat. Their buttery, fluffy texture makes them a crowd favorite at holiday dinners or potlucks.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a soft, buttery yeast roll dough and let it complete its first rise.
• Generously grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin.
• Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions.
• Divide each of the 12 portions into three smaller, equal-sized balls (for a total of 36 small balls).
• Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a small bowl.
• Dip each small ball into the melted butter, ensuring it is fully coated.
• Place three butter-dipped balls into each cup of the muffin tin to form a “cloverleaf.”
• Cover the muffin tin and let the rolls rise for a second time until puffy, about 30-45 minutes.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
• If desired, brush with more melted butter after baking.

9. Potato Yeast Rolls

Adding mashed potatoes to the dough makes these rolls incredibly moist and tender. They stay soft longer than regular rolls.

Recipe Method:

• Boil 1 large russet potato until very tender. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the starchy cooking water.
• Mash the potato until completely smooth (you should have about 1 cup). Let both the potato and the reserved water cool to lukewarm.
• Activate 1 packet of yeast in the warm potato water with a pinch of sugar.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potato, the yeast mixture, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 egg.
• Gradually add 3-4 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing to form a very soft dough.
• Knead until smooth and elastic. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
• Let the dough rise in a covered, greased bowl for 1-1.5 hours.
• Shape into rolls, place in a greased pan, and let rise a second time until puffy.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
• Brush with melted butter for an extra soft, delicious finish.

10. Cinnamon Swirl Yeast Rolls

Yeast dough is swirled with cinnamon and sugar, creating a sweet treat perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a sweet yeast roll dough, enriched with extra sugar and butter.
• After the first rise, roll the dough out into a large rectangle (approximately 10×15 inches).
• Brush the surface of the rectangle with 1/4 cup of softened butter.
• In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
• Roll the dough up tightly from the long edge to form a log.
• Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice the log into 12-15 one-inch thick rolls.
• Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased baking dish.
• Cover and let them rise a second time for 30-45 minutes.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, then drizzle with a powdered sugar and milk glaze while warm.

11. Brioche Rolls

These rich, buttery rolls are soft and airy thanks to a generous amount of eggs and butter. They’re ideal for fancy brunches or special occasions.

Recipe Method:

• In a stand mixer bowl, activate yeast in warm milk.
• Add 3-4 eggs, sugar, and salt, and mix to combine.
• Gradually add flour and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
• With the mixer on low, slowly add 1 cup of softened, cubed butter, one piece at a time, until fully incorporated.
• Increase speed and knead for 10 minutes until the dough is smooth, shiny, and elastic.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight (8-12 hours).
• The next day, shape the cold dough into rolls and place in a greased pan.
• Let the rolls rise in a warm place for a long second proof, about 2-3 hours, until very puffy.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Brush with an egg wash and bake for 15-20 minutes until a deep golden brown.

12. Pretzel Rolls

These rolls are boiled in baking soda to achieve a chewy, golden-brown crust with a distinctive pretzel taste. They make excellent buns for sliders or burgers.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a simple, lean yeast roll dough (less sugar and fat).
• Let the dough rise once, then divide and shape it into rolls.
• Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rest for 20-30 minutes.
• Bring a large pot with 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully and slowly add 1/2 cup of baking soda.
• Boil each roll for 30 seconds per side, removing it with a large slotted spoon.
• Place the boiled rolls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Brush the tops with an egg wash.
• Sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt.
• Use a sharp knife to score a cross or a single slash on top of each roll.
• Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 12-15 minutes until deep brown and glossy.

13. Orange Glazed Yeast Rolls

These light, fluffy rolls are glazed with a sweet citrusy topping. They are perfect for brunch gatherings or afternoon teas.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a sweet roll dough, using 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice and 1/2 cup of milk as the liquid.
• Add 2 tablespoons of fresh orange zest to the dough during the mixing stage for flavor throughout.
• Let the dough complete its first rise until doubled.
• Shape the dough into rolls and place them in a greased baking dish.
• Allow the rolls to rise for a second time until puffy, about 30-45 minutes.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
• While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice.
• Let the rolls cool for just a few minutes after they come out of the oven.
• Drizzle the orange glaze over the warm rolls.
• Serve immediately for a bright, citrusy treat.

14. Milk Bread Rolls

Soft, buttery, and incredibly fluffy, these rolls are made using a tangzhong starter for extra tenderness. They’re perfect for any meal.

Recipe Method:

• First, prepare the tangzhong by whisking 3 tablespoons of flour and 1/2 cup of milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens into a paste. Let cool.
• In a large bowl, activate yeast in 1/2 cup of warm milk.
• Add the cooled tangzhong, 1 egg, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt.
• Gradually mix in 2.5 cups of bread flour to form a shaggy dough.
• Knead the dough, then gradually incorporate 1/4 cup of softened butter until the dough is smooth and passes the “windowpane test.”
• Let the dough rise in a covered bowl until doubled in size.
• Shape the dough into 8-10 smooth balls and place them in a greased pan.
• Let the rolls rise a second time until very puffy and light, about 1 hour.
• Brush with an egg wash before baking for a shiny finish.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.

15. Sweet Potato Yeast Rolls

These rolls are slightly sweet and moist, thanks to the addition of mashed sweet potatoes. Their beautiful golden color makes them stand out.

Recipe Method:

• Bake or boil 1 medium sweet potato until very tender. Peel and mash until smooth (about 1 cup). Let cool.
• Activate 1 packet of yeast in 1/2 cup of warm milk.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed sweet potato, yeast mixture, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 egg.
• Add 3-4 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Knead the dough until smooth. The dough will have a lovely orange color.
• Let the dough rise in a covered, greased bowl for 1-1.5 hours.
• Shape into 12-15 rolls and place in a greased baking pan.
• Let the rolls rise for a second time until puffy, about 45-60 minutes.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
• Brush with melted honey butter or maple butter after baking.

16. Onion Rolls

Caramelized onions add a savory depth of flavor to these fluffy rolls. They are a great addition to soups, stews, or hearty meats.

Recipe Method:

• Slowly caramelize one large, thinly sliced onion in butter over low-medium heat for 25-30 minutes until deep brown and sweet. Let it cool.
• In a small bowl, rehydrate 1/4 cup of dried minced onions with a few tablespoons of hot water.
• Prepare a standard yeast roll dough.
• During the mixing process, knead in the cooled caramelized onions and the rehydrated onions.
• Let the dough rise for the first time until doubled.
• Shape the dough into rolls. For a traditional look, flatten the rolls slightly.
• Press the tops into more rehydrated onion flakes or poppy seeds.
• Let the rolls rise a second time for 30-40 minutes.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
• These savory rolls are perfect for making sandwiches or serving with a hearty meal.

17. Glazed Maple Yeast Rolls

Brushed with a maple syrup glaze, these sweet and fluffy rolls are perfect for holiday breakfasts or Thanksgiving dinners.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a sweet roll dough, using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Let the dough complete its first rise.
• Shape the dough into 12 rolls and place them in a greased baking pan.
• Allow the rolls to rise for a second time until they are puffy and light.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
• While the rolls are in the oven, prepare the glaze by heating 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup with 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan until combined.
• For a thicker, sweeter glaze, you can whisk in 1/2 cup of powdered sugar.
• Brush the hot rolls generously with the warm maple glaze as soon as they come out of the oven.
• Sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans if desired.
• Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving warm.

18. Sourdough Yeast Rolls

These rolls have a slightly chewy texture and a tangy flavor. They’re ideal for pairing with hearty dishes or using as sandwich buns.

Recipe Method:

• The night before baking, prepare a levain by feeding your active sourdough starter.
• The next day, combine 1 cup of active, bubbly levain with 1 cup of warm water, 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey, and 3 cups of flour.
• Mix to form a shaggy dough, then let it rest for 30 minutes (autolyse).
• Add 1.5 teaspoons of salt and 2 tablespoons of softened butter, then knead until smooth.
• Let the dough bulk ferment for 3-4 hours, performing a few sets of stretch-and-folds during the first 2 hours.
• Divide and shape the dough into tight balls.
• Place the rolls in a pan and let them have a final proof for 2-3 hours at room temperature, or overnight in the fridge for more flavor.
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Brush with melted butter before baking.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until deep golden brown with a chewy crust.

19. Butterflake Rolls

Delicate, buttery layers make these rolls a joy to eat. They are perfect for impressing guests at any dinner party.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a rich, buttery yeast roll dough and let it complete its first rise.
• On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a large, thin rectangle.
• Brush the entire surface of the rectangle generously with 1/2 cup of softened butter.
• Using a pizza cutter, cut the rectangle into 6 long, equal-sized strips.
• Carefully stack the 6 buttered strips on top of one another to create a layered block.
• Cut the stacked block into 12 equal, 1.5-inch wide pieces.
• Place each piece, with the cut sides facing up and down, into a cup of a greased muffin tin.
• Cover the tin and let the rolls rise for a second time, about 45-60 minutes, until the layers look puffy and separated.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
• Serve warm and encourage guests to pull apart the flaky, buttery layers.

20. Cardamom-Spiced Rolls

Ground cardamom adds a subtle, aromatic spice to these fluffy rolls. They’re perfect for festive dinners or holiday brunches.

Recipe Method:

• Prepare a sweet roll dough, similar to a classic cinnamon roll dough.
• Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of freshly ground cardamom to the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, salt) before mixing.
• Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
• Let the dough rise in a covered, warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
• Shape the dough into simple round rolls or knotted shapes for a decorative touch.
• Place the shaped rolls in a greased pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let them rise a second time until puffy, about 45 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Brush with an egg wash and sprinkle with Swedish pearl sugar or coarse sugar for a crunchy, beautiful finish.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.

Conclusion

Homemade yeast rolls come in a variety of flavors, textures, and styles, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re craving something classic, savory, or sweet, these 20 recipes are sure to satisfy and impress your family and friends.

Bring warmth and comfort to your table with the perfect fluffy roll for every occasion.