Soft Sourdough Dinner Rolls
These Sourdough Dinner Rolls are insanely soft, extra fluffy, and packed with rich, buttery goodness. The best part? They’re a same-day recipe, so you can whip them up without waiting forever. With only seven basic ingredients, these rolls easily earn a permanent spot on your dinner table.
“My whole family fights over these rolls!” – Brooke
Whether you’re brand-new to sourdough or you’ve been baking for years, this recipe fits every skill level. The process is simple, the steps are forgiving, and the flavor is next-level. Each warm, pillowy roll brushed with butter is the kind of comfort that makes you reach for just one more.
These rolls shine during the holidays—right alongside classics like Sourdough Garlic Knots, Artisan Sourdough Bread, and Sourdough Focaccia. And if you love twists on traditional dishes, don’t miss Sourdough Corn Casserole or Veggie Sourdough Mac & Cheese made with discard.
⭐ Why You’ll Love These Rolls
- Ready in one day: Mix, rise, shape, bake. Easy.
- Amazing flavor: Buttery, soft, and slightly tangy—classic sourdough magic.
- Naturally risen: Uses an active sourdough starter (no commercial yeast needed).
- Perfect for holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, family dinners—you name it.
- Slider-friendly: Ideal size for mini sandwiches or party sliders.
🧈 Ingredients Breakdown
| Ingredient | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Active sourdough starter | Freshly fed, doubled, and bubbly. |
| Milk | Whole milk gives the softest texture. Dairy-free? Use full-fat coconut milk. |
| Butter | Softened, unsalted butter is best. |
| Bread flour | Higher protein = stronger dough and better structure. |
(Use your recipe-card measurements: usually ~480g flour, 250g milk, 100g starter.)
🍞 How to Make Them
Step 1 — Mix the Dough
Warm the milk and soften the butter.
Combine everything in a stand mixer (or knead by hand).
Knead 15–20 minutes until the dough pulls away from the bowl.
Add a touch of flour if too sticky.
Step 2 — Windowpane Check
Rest dough 10 minutes.
Stretch a bit of dough—if it becomes thin enough to see light through without tearing, it’s ready.
If not, knead 5 more minutes.
Step 3 — Bulk Rise
Shape into a smooth ball and place in a covered bowl.
Let rise at 80°F for 5–6 hours, or overnight at 75–77°F for 8–12 hours.
Step 4 — Divide the Dough
Punch down and portion into 15 balls (about 85g each).
Step 5 — Shape the Rolls
Pull edges to the center, pinch, flip seam-side down.
Roll gently under your hand to smooth the top.
Step 6 — Second Rise
Arrange in a greased 9×13 pan.
Let rise 2–3 hours at 80°F until puffy.
Step 7 — Poke Test
- Springs back fast → not ready
- No bounce → over-proofed, bake now
- Slow bounce → perfect
Brush with egg wash.
Step 8 — Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Brush with melted butter and sprinkle flaky salt.
💡 Top Tips
- Let the dough fully puff for soft, cloud-like rolls.
- If rising slow, move to a warm spot (oven light, fridge top, etc.).
- Active starter = best flavor and lift.
- Egg wash = perfect glossy color.
🕒 Sample Baking Schedules
Same-Day Plan (80°F dough temp)
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Feed starter | 10 PM |
| Mix dough | 8 AM |
| First rise | 8:30 AM |
| Shape | 1:30 PM |
| Second rise | 1:45 PM |
| Bake | 4 PM |
Overnight Plan (low 70s°F)
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Feed starter | 4 PM |
| Mix dough | 9:30 PM |
| First rise | 10 PM |
| Shape | 8 AM |
| Second rise | 8:15 AM |
| Bake | 11 AM |
🧊 Storage
- Cool fully before storing.
- Keep in an airtight container for 4 days.
- Freeze up to 3 months.
- Thaw at room temp.
❓ FAQ
Q1: Can I swap sugar for honey?
Yes—use equal amounts, but reduce liquid slightly.
Q2: Can I use all-purpose flour?
You can, but the rolls will be softer and less chewy.
Q3: Best reheating method?
Warm in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes, or microwave with a damp towel for 20 seconds.
Q4: Is dough safe at room temp with milk/egg?
Yes—sourdough’s natural acidity keeps it safe during typical fermentation times.
Q5: Why aren’t my rolls browning?
Add egg wash and make sure your oven is correctly heated.
🥯 More Sourdough Recipes
- Sourdough Hawaiian Rolls
- Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
- Sourdough Hamburger Buns
- Same-Day Sourdough Dinner Rolls
