Old Fashioned Soft Yeast Rolls

Step 1

Knead. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.  Knead by hand, with a stand mixer, or with a bread machine set on the "dough" cycle. (If using a bread machine, skip step 2 and allow the machine to complete the full cycle.). If the dough still seems dry or dense, add a bit more milk. The dough is kneaded enough when windows (translucent areas) appear in the dough when it's stretched out.

Step 2

The first rise. Shape the dough into a ball and place in a clean, lightly oiled bowl to rise. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp tea towel and allow to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size

Step 3

Divide and shape. Turn out the dough onto a clean surface and divide into 24 pieces with a sharp knife.   Shape the pieces into balls by pinching the bottoms until the tops are round and smooth. Spray a glass 13 x 9 baking dish with nonstick spray and place the dough balls inside.

Step 4

The second rise. Cover with greased plastic wrap and set in a warm place to rise until very puffy, about 45 minutes.  Towards the end of the rising time, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Remove the plastic wrap and brush the rolls with 2 tablespoons of the melted butter.

Step 5

Bake. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until golden brown.  Brush with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter while still warm. Let the rolls cool for about 20 minutes and serve directly out of the pan.