Perfectly fluffy milk bread rolls

Featured in Warm bread with golden crust.

Make your own soft, golden milk bread rolls. Just be patient during the two rise times; the results are worth the wait!

alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Tue, 11 Mar 2025 17:45:18 GMT
A plate with soft and perfectly golden bread rolls. Pin it
A plate with soft and perfectly golden bread rolls. | Tasteofsavor.com

These soft milk bread rolls hold a special place in my kitchen, bringing back cherished memories of morning baking. The sweet aroma wafting from the oven reminds me of childhood mornings when homemade rolls would fill our home. This buttery, comforting recipe has become a treasured family tradition.

The Secret to Irresistibly Soft Rolls

What makes these rolls truly special is their versatility. Prepare a batch on Sunday and enjoy them all week long - their light, airy texture and subtle flavor appeal to everyone. Made without preservatives, they maintain natural freshness and freeze beautifully for impromptu serving.

Essential Quality Ingredients

  • 500g all-purpose flour: Type 45 for optimal lightness
  • 10g active dry yeast: Reliable for consistent results
  • 250ml milk: Slightly warmed to activate yeast
  • 50g sugar: For gentle sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors perfectly
  • 75g unsalted butter: Room temperature
  • 1 whole egg: Enriches the dough
  • 1 egg yolk: Creates golden crust

Step-by-Step Baking Method

Activating the Yeast
Combine warm milk with yeast and a pinch of sugar to ensure proper rising.
Creating the Dough
Mix ingredients gradually, incorporating butter until dough becomes silky smooth.
First Rise
Let dough rest in warm spot for 90 minutes until doubled in size.
Shaping the Rolls
Divide into 10 equal portions and shape each into a roll.
Second Rise
Allow rolls to proof for 30 minutes more.
Final Baking
Brush with egg wash and bake at 180°C for 15 minutes until golden brown.

Perfect Serving Suggestions

These rolls are café favorites, delightful with homemade jam at breakfast or filled with ham and cheese for lunch. Pair with coffee or aromatic tea for an ideal snack break.

Une délicieuse brioche dorée et moelleuse est présentée dans un plat. Pin it
Une délicieuse brioche dorée et moelleuse est présentée dans un plat. | Tasteofsavor.com

Storage Tips for Lasting Freshness

Store rolls in an airtight metal container for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in portions. A quick oven reheat restores their original softness - perfect for having fresh rolls available anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I swap regular milk with plant-based options?

Definitely! You could go with almond or soy milk. The texture might change slightly, but it’ll still work. Don’t forget to warm it lightly.

→ How can I tell if my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size during the first rise. Try poking it gently with a finger—if the mark stays and doesn’t bounce back, it’s ready.

→ Are these rolls freezer-friendly?

Yes, they freeze beautifully after baking and cooling! To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or bake for 5 minutes in the oven to restore their softness.

→ What’s the difference between T45 and T55 flour?

Using T45 gives a finer, softer, and whiter result. T55 is more commonly available and works just as well. Either flour creates wonderful rolls.

→ How long do these rolls last?

Keep them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for 2-3 days. Heat them in the oven for a few minutes to freshen up. In the freezer, they’re good for up to 2 months.

Soft milk bread rolls

Golden, soft, and fluffy milk bread rolls. A classic and easy-to-follow recipe to enjoy at breakfast or as a snack.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
140 Minutes
Total Time
170 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Breads

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: French

Yield: 10 Servings (10 buns)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 50 grams of sugar.
02 10 grams of dry yeast (or 20 grams of fresh yeast).
03 500 grams of flour (T45 or T55 works).
04 1 teaspoon of salt.
05 250 ml of warm milk.
06 1 egg (used for the dough).
07 75 grams of softened butter.
08 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon of milk (used for brushing).

Instructions

Step 01

Mix a little bit of warm milk and a pinch of sugar into the yeast. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes until bubbles show up.

Step 02

In a big bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, the egg, and the rest of the warm milk, then mix it up. Toss in the butter in small bits and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough feels nice and stretchy.

Step 03

Shape the dough into a ball, cover it, and let it sit for 1 1/2 hours to double in size.

Step 04

Punch down the dough and split it into 10 pieces. Roll them into balls or logs. Place them on a baking tray lined with baking paper, cover them, and leave to rise for 30–45 minutes.

Step 05

Get your oven preheated to 180°C (350°F). Brush the buns with the egg yolk and milk mixture, then bake for 15–20 minutes until they turn a lovely golden color.

Notes

  1. You’ll need two rising times for this recipe.
  2. These freeze up really well!

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl.
  • Baking tray.
  • Parchment paper.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains gluten (flour).
  • Eggs are used.
  • Dairy products (milk and butter).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 35 g
  • Protein: 6 g