We’ve always been huge fans of Maddox Dinner Rolls, those irresistibly soft and buttery treats that originated at the legendary Maddox Ranch House in Utah. They bring a touch of homestyle comfort to any table, evoking memories of family dinners and fresh-baked warmth.
In our recipe, we’ll guide you through simple steps to recreate this classic at home. It’s easier than you think, and soon you’ll enjoy that pillowy texture and rich flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
We believe that the heart of any great Maddox Dinner Rolls recipe lies in its fresh, high-quality ingredients, which come together to deliver that signature soft and buttery texture we’ve all come to love. Below, we list them in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for precision.
- Warm milk: 1 cup (warmed to 110°F for activating yeast—measure it accurately to ensure the dough rises perfectly).
- Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (one packet; proof this in the warm milk to kickstart fermentation quickly).
- Granulated sugar: ¼ cup (dissolved in the yeast mixture to feed the yeast and enhance the rolls’ subtle sweetness).
- Unsalted butter: ¼ cup (melted; use high-quality butter for that rich, buttery flavor that defines Maddox Dinner Rolls).
- Large egg: 1 (beaten; incorporate at room temperature for better binding and a tender crumb).
- All-purpose flour: 3 ½ to 4 cups (sifted; add gradually as needed to achieve a soft, non-sticky dough).
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (added to the flour mixture to balance flavors and strengthen the dough’s structure).
| Ingredient | Original Amount | Scaled for 2x Batch |
|---|---|---|
| Warm milk | 1 cup | 2 cups |
| Active dry yeast | 2 ¼ teaspoons | 4 ½ teaspoons |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | ½ cup |
| Unsalted butter | ¼ cup | ½ cup |
| Large egg | 1 | 2 |
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ to 4 cups | 7 to 8 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 2 teaspoons |
Equipment Needed
To bring our Maddox Dinner Rolls to life after preparing the ingredients, we need a few essential tools that ensure the dough mixes smoothly, rises perfectly, and bakes to golden perfection. Let’s gather these items for an efficient baking process.
- Large mixing bowl: We use this to combine the yeast, milk, and other wet ingredients, allowing for easy stirring and dough development.
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (or a sturdy wooden spoon): Essential for kneading the dough efficiently; if opting for hand mixing, a strong arm and about 10 minutes will do the trick to achieve that soft, elastic texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s success; we recommend a set that includes both dry and liquid cups to handle ingredients like flour and milk precisely.
- Baking sheet or 9×13-inch baking pan: This is where the rolls will rise and bake; a non-stick option works best to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
- Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel: We cover the dough during its rise to keep it moist and protected from drafts, promoting optimal fermentation.
- Pastry brush: Perfect for applying melted butter to the tops of the rolls before baking, giving them that signature glossy, buttery finish.
- Oven thermometer: While not always necessary, we suggest this for precise temperature control, as our recipe requires baking at 375°F to achieve the ideal soft and fluffy result.
With these tools in hand, we’re all set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, making our homemade Maddox Dinner Rolls a breeze to create.
Instructions
We’re excited to guide you through making our homemade Maddox Dinner Rolls, ensuring you achieve that signature soft and buttery texture with straightforward steps that build on the ingredients and equipment we’ve prepared.
Prepare the Dough
First, we activate the yeast to kickstart the process. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (around 110°F) with 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, signaling the yeast is alive and ready.
Next, we add the wet ingredients. Melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter and whisk it into the yeast mixture along with 1 large egg. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients—starting with 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt—to form a shaggy dough. If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. For hand kneading, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, adding flour 1 tablespoon at a time if it’s too sticky. This step is crucial as it develops the gluten for those fluffy, tender rolls we love.
Let the Dough Rise
Once the dough is ready, we shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased large mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. The dough should feel light and airy when gently pressed, indicating the yeast has worked its magic to create a soft, pillowy base for our Maddox Dinner Rolls.
Shape the Rolls
After the first rise, we punch down the dough to release air bubbles and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal portions—using a kitchen scale for precision ensures even baking. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spacing them about 1 inch apart for that classic pull-apart style. Cover the shaped rolls again with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy. This second rise enhances the soft and buttery texture that makes these rolls irresistible.
Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the center for even heat distribution. Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown on top and an internal temperature of 190°F is reached—use an oven thermometer if available for accuracy. Immediately brush the hot rolls with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter for extra flavor and shine. Let them cool slightly in the pan before serving, and enjoy the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen with every batch of our homemade Maddox Dinner Rolls.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best aspects of our Maddox Dinner Rolls recipe is the flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing us to enjoy fresh, warm rolls without last-minute stress. Whether we’re hosting a family gathering or preparing for a busy weeknight, these methods ensure the rolls retain their signature soft, buttery texture and irresistible aroma.
Preparing the Dough in Advance
We can prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead to save time. After mixing and kneading the dough as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, cover it tightly with plastic wrap in the large mixing bowl. Refrigerate the dough immediately to slow fermentation, preventing over-rising while enhancing flavor development. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours until it reaches a workable consistency. This step allows the dough to warm up gently, making it easier to shape into rolls and ensuring they rise perfectly in the oven, filling our kitchen with that comforting, yeasty scent.
Freezing Shaped Rolls
For longer storage, we recommend freezing the shaped rolls for up to 3 months. Once the dough has completed its first rise, shape it into rolls as described, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Freeze the rolls until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container to save space. To bake from frozen, arrange the rolls in a 9×13-inch baking pan and let them thaw and rise at room temperature for 2 to 4 hours, or until doubled in size. This method preserves the rolls’ fluffy interior and golden crust, so they emerge just as delicious as if freshly made.
Baking and Reheating
If we prefer to bake ahead, prepare the rolls completely according to the recipe and let them cool fully on a wire rack. Store the baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, wrap the rolls in aluminum foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. This revives their soft texture and rich, buttery flavor, making them taste freshly baked and ready to complement any meal.
| Make-Ahead Method | Preparation Time | Storage Duration | Thawing/Baking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate dough | Up to 24 hours | In fridge | Let sit 1–2 hours at room temperature |
| Freeze shaped rolls | Up to 3 months | In freezer | Thaw 2–4 hours before baking |
| Bake and store rolls | Up to 2 days | At room temperature or freezer (1 month) | Reheat 10–15 minutes at 350°F |
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve followed along with our Maddox Dinner Rolls recipe. It’s a rewarding way to recreate that nostalgic comfort in your own kitchen.
These rolls never fail to impress at any gathering, offering that perfect soft, buttery bite we’ve all come to cherish.
Give it a try and make it your own—these homemade treats will quickly become a family favorite we know you’ll treasure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Maddox Dinner Rolls?
Maddox Dinner Rolls are soft, buttery rolls that originated at Maddox Ranch House in Utah. They’re cherished for their nostalgic comfort, perfect for family dinners, and easy to make at home. This recipe recreates their signature texture using simple ingredients, bringing a warm, homemade feel to any meal.
What ingredients are needed for Maddox Dinner Rolls?
The key ingredients include warm milk, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, a large egg, all-purpose flour, and salt. Use fresh, high-quality components for the best texture and rise. Measurements are provided in the recipe, with options to scale for larger batches.
What equipment do I need to make these rolls?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a stand mixer with a dough hook (or a wooden spoon), measuring cups and spoons, a baking sheet or 9×13-inch pan, plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and a pastry brush. An oven thermometer is optional but helpful for perfect baking results.
How do I prepare Maddox Dinner Rolls step by step?
Start by activating yeast in warm milk, then mix in melted butter and an egg. Add dry ingredients to form dough, knead by hand or mixer until smooth, and let it rise until doubled. Shape into rolls, allow a second rise, bake until golden, and brush with butter for a soft, fluffy finish.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to enhance flavor and prevent over-rising. For longer storage, shape the rolls and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed for fresh-tasting results.
How should I store and reheat the rolls?
Store baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes until soft. For frozen shaped rolls, thaw and bake directly for a freshly made texture.
Why are fresh ingredients important for this recipe?
Fresh ingredients like active dry yeast and unsalted butter ensure proper rising and a soft, buttery texture. Using high-quality components prevents issues like dense rolls or off-flavors, helping you achieve the authentic Maddox taste at home.