If you love warm, pillowy dinner rolls that melt in your mouth, these Soft Honey Butter Rolls are about to become your new favorite.
They’re lightly sweet from honey, rich with butter, and have a perfectly tender crumb.
Whether for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, these rolls bring warmth and comfort to any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Soft and tender texture – The combination of milk, egg, and butter gives these rolls a cloud-like softness.
Light sweetness – A hint of honey makes them stand out from regular dinner rolls.
Perfect for beginners – Simple ingredients and a forgiving dough that’s easy to work with.
Make-ahead friendly – Prep in advance and bake fresh before serving.
Great with anything – From stews to breakfast spreads, they pair beautifully with all meals.
Ingredient Highlights
Whole milk – Adds moisture and richness to the dough.
Active dry yeast – The classic leavening for soft, airy texture.
Honey – Sweetens the rolls naturally and complements the butter flavor.
Butter – Used in the dough and brushed on top for richness.
Egg – Binds the dough and gives structure.
All-purpose or bread flour – Both work well; bread flour yields a chewier bite.
Tips Before You Start
Let the milk cool to lukewarm (80–90°F) after heating — too hot will kill the yeast.
Use room temperature egg so it blends smoothly with the dough.
Don’t skip the second rise – it makes the rolls extra fluffy.
For perfectly even rolls, fold and cut the dough into squares instead of shaping individual balls.
Brush with butter while warm for that signature soft, golden top.
How to Make Soft Honey Butter Rolls
Step 1: Warm the Milk
Heat the milk in a saucepan until it steams and small bubbles appear on the sides (don’t boil).
Let cool to lukewarm, between 80–90°F.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, stir together the warm milk, active dry yeast, and honey.
Let it rest for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Step 3: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with 3 tablespoons melted butter, the egg, salt, and half of the flour.
Mix until smooth, then gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough for 8 minutes using a dough hook or by hand on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
Fold the dough in half and press gently to seal. Cut into 24 even squares.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place rolls on 2 lightly greased baking sheets.
Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes, until puffy and doubled in size.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the tops are golden.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Brush warm rolls with the remaining tablespoon of melted butter.
Serve with Copycat Texas Roadhouse Cinnamon Butter or your favorite spread.
What to Serve With
Hearty stews and chilis
Holiday roasts or glazed ham
Scrambled eggs and bacon for a breakfast side
Jam or cinnamon butter for a sweet treat
Variations & Swaps
Add herbs – Mix in chopped rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory twist.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for deeper flavor.
Top with sesame or poppy seeds before baking for added texture.
Turn them into sliders by slicing in half and stuffing with ham and cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
To Reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave in 15-second bursts.
Make-ahead tip: Prepare the dough, shape into rolls, and refrigerate overnight.
Let come to room temp and rise before baking.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, skip the proofing step and add it directly to the flour.
Why did my rolls turn out dense?
The dough may not have risen long enough.
Make sure it’s doubled in size during both rises.
Can I make the dough in a bread machine?
Absolutely — just follow your machine’s instructions for dough preparation.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Use almond or oat milk and plant-based butter, though texture may vary slightly.
Do these rolls freeze well?
Yes! Freeze baked rolls and reheat as needed.
How do I get perfectly golden tops?
Bake on the middle rack and brush with butter right after baking.
What’s the best flour to use?
Bread flour gives chewier results, but all-purpose works just as well.
Final Thoughts
These Soft Honey Butter Rolls are the kind of recipe that brings comfort and warmth to any meal.
Whether you serve them during the holidays or on a cozy Sunday night, the sweet honey flavor and fluffy texture make them unforgettable.
I love how easy they are to make, and once you try them, you’ll never reach for store-bought again!
