Softness comes from an enriched, well-hydrated dough and a tangzhong, a cooked flour-and-cream paste stirred in to lock in moisture. Proof the shaped rolls until they touch and jiggle, then bake just to 190F inside so they stay pillowy instead of drying out.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep25 min
Cook20 min
Makes15 rolls
CuisineAmerican
Cost$$
Vegetarian
Contains dairy · eggs · gluten
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
A reasonable little indulgence. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Air fryerSheet pan
The Method
Cook the tangzhongWhisk 3 tablespoons flour with the cream and 1/2 cup water and cook to a thick paste, about 150F. This locked-in moisture keeps the rolls soft for days.
Mix and kneadAdd the cooled paste, yeast, sugar, egg, butter, remaining flour, and salt and knead to a smooth, tacky dough, about 10 minutes.
Shape and proofDivide into even balls, roll tight, and set them just touching in a pan. Proof until puffy and pressing into each other, about 45 minutes.
Bake softBrush with egg wash and bake at 350F for 18 to 20 minutes to an internal 190F. Brush with butter as they come out.
Yes — bake it in a small pan or dish that fits the basket, at about 25°F below the recipe temperature. Air fryers run hot and fast, so check it early; no flipping needed.
Can you freeze Dinner Rolls? — Yes
Yes — freeze it well-wrapped, then reheat or toast straight from frozen. Frost or glaze after thawing.
Can you make Dinner Rolls ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — bake it a day or two ahead; it keeps well-wrapped at room temperature and freezes cleanly. Add any frosting or glaze close to serving.
Is Dinner Rolls gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free flour blend (check the other labels too).
Is Dinner Rolls vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy and egg. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Community Notes
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