Honey Bread Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These honey bread rolls are a home baker’s dream. They’re simple to make, require basic pantry ingredients, and deliver bakery-quality results. The rolls are lightly sweetened with honey and finished with a warm honey butter glaze that elevates their flavor. The dough is easy to work with and yields a soft, tender crumb every time. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend brunch, they can also be made ahead and reheated beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

• ¾ cup warm milk (105-115°F / 40-46°C)

• ¼ cup warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)

• ¼ cup honey, plus more for brushing

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

Honey Butter Glaze

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1/8 teaspoon salt (optional, to taste)

Directions

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.

2. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, warm water, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, honey, melted butter, and egg to the flour mixture.

4. Mix the Dough: Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead with a dough hook for 8-10 minutes or by hand for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.

6. Punch Down the Dough: Gently punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.

7. Divide the Dough: Divide into 12 equal pieces.

8. Shape the Rolls: Roll each piece into a smooth ball.

9. Arrange in Pan: Place the dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.

10. Second Rise: Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until nearly doubled.

11. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

12. Bake the Rolls: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

13. Prepare Honey Butter Glaze: Mix melted butter, honey, and salt (if using).

14. Glaze the Rolls: Brush rolls with honey butter immediately after baking.

15. Cool Slightly: Let rolls cool slightly in the pan.

16. Serve Warm: Enjoy while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Servings and timing

Yield: 12 rolls
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Whole Wheat Version: Replace up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier flavor.

• Herb-Infused: Add dried rosemary, thyme, or sage to the dough for a savory twist.

• Cinnamon Honey Rolls: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced version.

• Nutty Finish: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap each cooled roll in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Microwave for a few seconds until warm, or reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. For frozen rolls, thaw slightly before reheating for best results.

FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If your yeast becomes foamy after sitting in warm liquid for 5-10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Why are my rolls dense instead of fluffy?

This could be due to overkneading, using expired yeast, or not allowing enough time for the dough to rise.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, substitute 1:1. You can mix instant yeast directly into the dry ingredients without proofing it first.

Can I use bread flour?

Yes, bread flour will give the rolls a slightly chewier texture due to its higher protein content.

How can I get perfectly round rolls?

Roll each dough piece tightly into a ball and pinch the seam underneath to create surface tension.

Are these rolls very sweet?

They are lightly sweet with a touch of honey, but the glaze adds extra sweetness. You can adjust the honey to taste.

Can I add fillings like cheese or jam?

Yes, press a small amount of filling into the center of each dough ball before shaping.

What’s the best way to freeze these rolls?

Wrap cooled rolls individually in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I make these rolls more golden?

Brushing the rolls with melted butter or egg wash before baking helps achieve a golden-brown crust.

Conclusion

These honey bread rolls are a comforting, homemade treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any table. With their tender crumb and buttery honey glaze, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, their soft texture and rich flavor make them unforgettable. Try them once, and they’ll become a go-to in your baking routine.