These rolls combine the depth of rye flour with the softness of classic dinner rolls. They are flavorful without being heavy and have a beautiful homemade texture. Perfect for everyday dinners or special occasions, they also reheat well and make excellent leftovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Rye flour All-purpose flour Active dry yeast Warm milk Unsalted butter Granulated sugar Egg Salt
Directions
In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar and let it sit until foamy.
Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture.
Gradually mix in the rye flour and all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions.
Shape each portion into a smooth roll and place them in a baking dish.
Cover and let the rolls rise again until puffy.
Bake until the rolls are golden brown.
Brush with melted butter if desired and cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 rolls. Preparation time: approximately 20 minutes Rising time: 1 hour and 30 minutes Baking time: 18–22 minutes Total time: about 2 hours and 15 minutes
Variations
You can add caraway seeds for a classic rye flavor. For a slightly sweeter roll, increase the sugar slightly or add a spoonful of honey. Whole milk can be replaced with buttermilk for a richer taste.
Storage/Reheating
Store Rye Dinner Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and soft.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated after the first rise and baked the next day.
Are rye rolls dense?
No, when made correctly they are soft and fluffy with just a hint of rye texture.
Can I use only rye flour?
Using only rye flour will make the rolls dense. A blend with all-purpose flour gives the best results.
How do I know when the rolls are done?
They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and omit or replace the egg with a suitable alternative.
Why didn’t my dough rise?
This may be due to inactive yeast or milk that was too hot or too cold.
Can I add seeds on top?
Yes, brushing the rolls with water or egg wash helps seeds stick before baking.
Do these rolls freeze well?
Yes, both baked rolls and unbaked shaped dough can be frozen.
Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be mixed directly with the dry ingredients.
What should I serve with rye dinner rolls?
They pair well with soups, roasted meats, and savory spreads.
Conclusion
Rye Dinner Rolls offer a comforting balance of rustic flavor and soft texture. Easy to prepare and versatile, they make a wonderful addition to both everyday meals and festive tables. Once baked, their warm aroma and tender crumb are sure to impress.
Rye Dinner Rolls are soft, hearty rolls with a mild rye flavor and tender crumb, perfect for soups, stews, or holiday meals.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:22 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 15 minutes
Yield:12 rolls
Category:Bread
Method:Baking
Cuisine:European
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup rye flour
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
3/4 cup warm milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar and let it sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
Gradually mix in the rye flour and all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions.
Shape each portion into a smooth roll and place in a greased baking dish.
Cover and let the rolls rise again until puffy, about 30–40 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown.
Brush with melted butter if desired and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Add caraway seeds for a traditional rye flavor.Increase sugar or add honey for a slightly sweeter roll.Use buttermilk instead of whole milk for a richer taste.Both baked and unbaked rolls freeze well; thaw and reheat before serving.Brush with egg wash or water before adding seeds to help them stick.
