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French Bread Dinner Rolls

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These French Bread Dinner Rolls have a crispy golden crust with a soft, airy interior, just like classic French bread! With simple pantry ingredients, this make-ahead dough is perfect for holiday dinners, family meals, or anytime you crave fresh bread.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup warm water (under 110°F)
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • ½ teaspoon honey
  • 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Activate the Yeast:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey.
  • Stir and let sit for 8 minutes, until foamy.

2. Prepare the Dough:

  • Add flour & salt to the yeast mixture.
  • Knead with a dough hook attachment (or by hand) for 8 minutes, until smooth & elastic.

3. First Rise:

  • Grease a large bowl, place the dough inside, and cover.
  • Let rise for 45 minutes until puffy.

4. Fold the Dough:

  • Gently fold the dough over onto itself from all four sides.

5. Second Rise:

  • Cover and let rise again for 45 minutes.

6. Final Rise:

  • Allow the dough to rise another 30–45 minutes, until doubled in size.

7. Shape the Rolls:

  • Lightly flour a surface & divide dough into 10 equal pieces.
  • Shape into smooth rounds, tucking edges under.

8. Refrigerate (Optional for Flavor & Texture):

  • Place shaped rolls seam-side down in a greased baking pan.
  • Cover & refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 2 days.

9. Bake:

  • Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
  • Let rolls sit at room temperature while the oven heats.
  • Lightly mist rolls with water for a crispier crust.
  • Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 400°F (200°C).
  • Continue baking for 10–15 minutes, until golden brown.

Notes

  • Want Extra Flavor? Add garlic, rosemary, or thyme to the dough.
  • Crispier Crust? Place a shallow pan of water in the oven for steam.
  • Cheesy Rolls? Stuff a small cube of cheese inside before shaping.