Flaky Buttermilk Dinner Rolls for Thanksgiving
These Flaky Buttermilk Dinner Rolls are a must-have for Thanksgiving or any cozy meal. They’re soft and light, with a golden flaky crust that’s just perfect for mopping up gravy…
By Ashley
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Reading time: 6 min
These Flaky Buttermilk Dinner Rolls are a must-have for Thanksgiving or any cozy meal. They’re soft and light, with a golden flaky crust that’s just perfect for mopping up gravy or spreading with a little butter. The buttermilk adds a gentle tang that makes each bite extra special without being overpowering.
I love making these rolls because they feel homemade but come together without too much fuss. I usually make the dough the night before and let it rise slowly, which makes the texture even better. There’s something so satisfying about pulling them warm out of the oven, the smell filling the kitchen, and getting everyone gathered around the table.
My favorite way to serve these rolls is warm with a little pat of butter or alongside sweet mashed potatoes and roasted turkey. They’re such a classic that they help bring all the flavors of the meal together. Every holiday, these rolls remind me of family dinners and laughter, making them a true comfort food for me.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Buttermilk: This adds a nice tang and helps make the rolls tender. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes.
Active Dry Yeast: This is what makes the rolls rise. You can substitute with instant yeast, but add it directly to the flour without proofing.
Butter: Melted butter keeps the dough soft and adds rich flavor. You can swap with margarine or coconut oil for dairy-free options, though it may slightly change the texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for light, fluffy rolls. For a whole wheat twist, try half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour but expect a denser texture.
How Do You Get the Rolls Flaky and Soft?
The secret to flaky dinner rolls is the kneading and the two rises that give the dough time to develop flavor and structure.
- Kneading: Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. This builds gluten, which traps air and gives rolls their softness.
- First Rise: Let the dough double in a warm spot. This step wakes up the yeast and develops flavor.
- Shaping & Second Rise: Shape rolls tightly to get smooth surfaces, then let them rise again until puffy. This rise helps create light layers inside.
- Butter Brushing: Brushing melted butter before and after baking keeps the crust soft and adds a nice shine.
Taking your time through these steps makes all the difference in getting soft, flaky rolls perfect for your holiday meal.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining ingredients and letting dough rise.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredient amounts just right.
- Wooden spoon or dough scraper – helps mix the dough without sticking too much.
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) – makes kneading easier if you prefer not to do it by hand.
- 9×13-inch baking dish or rimmed baking sheet – holds the rolls while they rise and bake evenly.
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap – keeps the dough covered and warm during rising.
- Pastry brush – for brushing butter on rolls before and after baking for a soft crust.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add 1–2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a subtle, fresh twist perfect with turkey.
- Mix in ½ cup shredded cheese like cheddar or parmesan for a tasty cheesy version that’s great with soups.
- Swap buttermilk for plain yogurt thinned with milk for a tangy alternative if buttermilk isn’t available.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a hint of sweetness that pairs well with fall dinners.
Flaky Buttermilk Dinner Rolls for Thanksgiving
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup buttermilk, warmed (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 envelope) active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, divided (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for brushing
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 1 to 1.5 hours for the first rise and 45 minutes for the second rise. Baking time is 18-22 minutes. In total, plan for around 2.5 to 3 hours including rising and baking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix the warm buttermilk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, showing the yeast is active.
2. Mix the Dough Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 3 ¾ cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the melted butter, egg, and the foamy buttermilk-yeast mix. Stir with a wooden spoon or by hand until the dough starts to come together. Add in the remaining flour a little at a time until the dough feels slightly sticky but soft.
3. Knead the Dough
Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
4. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat every side. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, then let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this should take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
5. Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough gently to release the air. Turn it onto a floured surface and split it into 12 equal parts. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
6. Second Rise
Arrange the dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch pan or a baking sheet lined with parchment. Place them close enough so they’ll touch when they rise. Cover loosely and let them rise for about 45 minutes until puffy.
7. Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown on top.
8. Finish and Serve
Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush with more melted butter to keep them soft and shiny. Let the rolls cool slightly before serving warm.
Enjoy these soft, flaky buttermilk dinner rolls alongside your Thanksgiving feast for a perfect, comforting touch!
Can I Use Frozen Buttermilk for the Rolls?
Yes, you can use frozen buttermilk, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and warm it to about 110°F before using to activate the yeast properly.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! After the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise again before shaping and baking.
How Should I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To freshen them, warm the rolls in the oven wrapped in foil or briefly in the microwave.
Can I Substitute Milk for Buttermilk?
Yes! Use regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps tenderize the rolls.