Kitchenaid Roll Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked rolls filling the kitchen, and with a trusty KitchenAid mixer, the process becomes effortless and fun. These soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or just because we’re craving homemade bread. Using the mixer takes the guesswork out of kneading, giving us consistent, bakery-quality results every time.

Kitchenaid Roll Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In the KitchenAid mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of warm milk. Sprinkle the active dry yeast and 1/4 cup granulated sugar over the milk. Let it stand for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This “proofing” step ensures the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients

Attach the dough hook to the KitchenAid mixer. Add the softened butter, room-temperature egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Begin mixing on low speed until combined. Gradually add the sifted flour, one cup at a time, allowing the dough to come together.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Set the mixer to medium speed and knead the dough for about 6–7 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic, no longer sticking to the sides of the bowl. If it’s too sticky, add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time until the texture improves.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours. It should double in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into 12–15 equal portions. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by tucking edges underneath and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a towel. Let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.

Step 7: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown. Once baked, brush the tops with melted butter for an irresistible shine and added flavor.

Step	Time Required
Yeast Activation	5–10 minutes
Kneading with Mixer	6–7 minutes
First Rise	1–1.5 hours
Second Rise	30–45 minutes
Baking	12–15 minutes

These fluffy, golden rolls are best served warm. With the help of a KitchenAid mixer, the process is streamlined, letting us enjoy fresh homemade bread with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F, to help activate the yeast)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted for an airy texture, add more if needed while kneading)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing on top post-baking)

Pro Tips for Ingredients:

• Using warm milk (not hot) ensures the yeast activates properly without killing it.
• For soft and stretchy dough, stick to high-quality all-purpose flour.
• Softened butter integrates easier into the dough than cold butter would.

Tools And Equipment

To make the perfect KitchenAid rolls, having the right tools and equipment ensures a streamlined and enjoyable baking experience. Here is everything we need to prepare these soft and fluffy rolls:

Essential Tools

• KitchenAid Stand Mixer: The star of the show, this helps with effortless mixing and kneading. Use the dough hook attachment for best results.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining the initial ingredients if you’re not directly mixing in the stand mixer.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of dry and liquid ingredients. Precision ensures consistency.
• Digital Kitchen Scale (optional): If you prefer weight measurements for better accuracy.
• Proofing Basket or Bowl: Ideal for allowing the dough to rise evenly.
• Bench Scraper or Dough Cutter: Makes dividing and shaping the dough a breeze.
• Baking Sheet: Use a standard-size baking sheet lined with parchment paper for even baking.
• Pastry Brush: Perfect for brushing melted butter over the rolls before and after baking.
• Kitchen Towel or Plastic Wrap: To cover the dough while it proofs to keep it from drying out.
• Oven Thermometer (optional): Ensure your oven is at the proper temperature for perfectly baked rolls.

Recommended Add-Ons

• Silicone Mat or Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
• Cooling Rack: Essential for cooling the rolls to maintain their crusty exterior and soft interior.
• Dough Thermometer: Useful for checking the temperature of the dough and liquids to avoid yeast mishaps.

Tool Summary Table

To keep things organized, here’s a quick recap:

Tool/Equipment	Purpose
KitchenAid Stand Mixer	Kneading and mixing the dough
Dough Hook Attachment	Effortless kneading
Measuring Cups & Spoons	Accurate ingredient measurements
Baking Sheet	Even baking for the rolls
Pastry Brush	Brushing butter for added flavor
Cooling Rack	Allow rolls to cool evenly

Having this arsenal of tools not only simplifies the process but also guarantees professional-quality results every single time.

Directions

Let’s guide you step-by-step toward creating the most soft, fluffy rolls with your KitchenAid mixer. Follow these instructions to achieve professional-quality results every time.

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Prep

1. Warm 1 cup of milk to about 100-110°F. This ensures proper activation of the yeast. Be careful not to overheat it.
2. In a small bowl, combine:

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• Warm milk (prepared earlier)

Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes or until it becomes frothy. This “frothiness” signifies activated yeast.
3. Meanwhile, grease your KitchenAid mixing bowl with a bit of softened butter or spray lightly with non-stick cooking spray.

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Mixing The Dough

1. Attach the dough hook to your KitchenAid mixer.
2. Add these ingredients to the mixing bowl:

• Activated yeast mixture
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (start with 3 cups and add more as needed).

1. Begin mixing the dough at low speed until combined, then increase to medium speed. Let the mixer knead the dough for 6-8 minutes. The dough should be soft and elastic but not sticky. Add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time if it feels too tacky.

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First Rise

1. Transfer the dough to the greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
2. Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free spot. Let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until the dough doubles in size.
   Pro tip: If your kitchen is cold, switch on your oven’s ‘proof’ setting or preheat it to 200°F, turn it off, and place the bowl inside with the door slightly open.

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Shaping The Rolls

1. Punch down the dough gently to release trapped air.
2. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (or 15 for smaller rolls) using a sharp knife or dough cutter.
3. Roll each piece into a smooth ball by cupping your hand over the dough and moving it in a circular motion.
4. Arrange the balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each roll.

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Second Rise

1. Cover the shaped rolls loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
2. Let them rise again for 30-40 minutes until they appear puffed and snug against one another. This is crucial for that signature pillowy texture.

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Baking The Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F while the rolls complete their second rise.
2. Once preheated, place the baking sheet in the center rack of the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops turn a beautiful golden brown.
3. Remove the rolls from the oven. While they’re still warm, brush the tops with melted butter for that irresistible flavor and shine.

Step	Time Needed
Prep	10-15 minutes
First Rise	1-1.5 hours
Shaping Rolls	15 minutes
Second Rise	30-40 minutes
Baking	15-18 minutes

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing our KitchenAid Roll Recipe ahead of time is a fantastic way to save effort on busy days while ensuring you still serve warm, fresh rolls. Follow these simple, detailed instructions to make the rolls in advance:

Refrigerating the Dough

1. Prepare the dough: Complete all steps up to the first rise. After kneading the dough with the KitchenAid stand mixer, place it into a greased bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap.
2. Chill overnight: Transfer the covered bowl to the refrigerator. The dough will rise slowly in the cold environment, resulting in even softer and fluffier rolls.
3. Shaping the rolls: When ready to bake, remove the dough from the fridge. Shape it into rolls as directed, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Second rise: Allow the rolls to sit at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or until they double in size.

Freezing Unbaked Rolls

1. Shape the rolls: Once the dough has completed its first rise, shape it into rolls.
2. Quick freeze: Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze them uncovered for about 1 hour, or until firm.
3. Storage: Transfer the frozen rolls into a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
4. Thaw and rise: When ready to bake, place the frozen rolls on a greased baking dish. Cover and allow them to thaw and rise at room temperature for approximately 4–5 hours before baking.

Freezing Baked Rolls

1. Cool completely: After baking, let the rolls cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Wrap tightly: Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.
3. Store in the freezer: Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months.
4. Reheat: To serve, wrap the frozen roll in aluminum foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through.

Timing Overview

Make-Ahead Method	Key Steps	Storage Time	Thaw/Rise/Bake Time
Refrigerating Dough	First rise, chill overnight	8–12 hours	1–2 hours at room temperature
Freezing Unbaked Rolls	Shape, quick freeze, store	Up to 3 months	4–5 hours to thaw and rise + bake
Freezing Baked Rolls	Cool, wrap, freeze	Up to 3 months	10–15 minutes to reheat in oven

By preparing our KitchenAid rolls ahead of time, we can enjoy homemade bread without the last-minute effort—perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any gathering.

Tips For Perfect Rolls

Achieving soft, golden KitchenAid rolls may seem simple, but a few expert tips can help ensure perfection every time. Let’s dive into what makes rolls truly irresistible, from texture to flavor.

1. Activate the Yeast Properly

Yeast is the foundation of fluffy rolls. Begin by ensuring the water or milk used is warm, not hot—between 100-110°F. Too cold, and the yeast won’t activate. Too hot, and it may die. Stir in a pinch of sugar when dissolving the yeast to feed it and promote bubbling.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best results:

• Check the expiration date on active dry yeast. Old yeast can compromise the rise.
• Opt for high-quality all-purpose flour for a tender dough.
• Use softened butter instead of melted for a balanced, rich flavor.

3. Master Dough Consistency

Not all doughs are the same. We need a soft, slightly sticky dough, but it should not adhere excessively to hands or the bowl. If dough feels too wet:

• Gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of flour while mixing until the desired consistency is reached.

If it’s overly dry or hard:

• Add 1 teaspoon of warm milk at a time to soften.

4. Monitor Rising Times

Proper rising is key to light, fluffy rolls. As a rule of thumb:

Step	Approximate Time	Notes
First rise	1-2 hours	Dough should double in size. Cover with a damp towel.
Second rise (shaped)	30-45 minutes	Rolls should puff up noticeably before baking.

Ensure your kitchen is warm (above 70°F) for the best rise. If it’s chilly, place the dough in an oven with the light on or near a warm stovetop.

5. Shape with Precision

To achieve uniformly sized rolls:

• Divide the dough evenly using a kitchen scale.
• Roll each piece gently into a ball, pinching seams underneath for a smooth top.

This ensures even baking and an attractive presentation.

6. Butter Makes Everything Better

Once baked, immediately brush the hot rolls with melted butter for a glossy finish and enhanced flavor. For extra flair, sprinkle flaky sea salt or sesame seeds after brushing.

7. Bake with Care

Bake the rolls until they’re golden brown (internal temperature should register 190°F if using a thermometer). Overbaking can dry them out, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes.

8. Prep Ahead for Convenience

Consider making the dough in advance for stress-free baking.

• Refrigerate overnight: Chill the rolled dough in a covered container and bake the next day.
• Freeze unbaked rolls: Post-shaping, freeze them and thaw before the second rise.

Serving Suggestions

These soft, fluffy KitchenAid rolls are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated, they elevate any meal. Here are some serving ideas to make the most of these homemade rolls:

Pair With Meals

• Holiday Feasts: Perfect as a side for turkey, ham, or roast. The buttery flavor complements rich gravies and savory stuffing.
• Hearty Soups and Stews: Tear a roll for dipping into creamy soups or robust stews, making every bite comforting and flavorful.
• Everyday Dinners: Serve alongside main dishes like roasted chicken, pasta, or grilled vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Creative Uses

• Mini Sandwiches: Slice the rolls horizontally and fill them with deli meats, cheese, or BBQ pulled pork for sliders.
• Breakfast Rolls: Spread with butter and jam or honey for a quick, sweet start to the day. They also pair beautifully with scrambled eggs or breakfast casseroles.
• Snack Platters: Use rolls as part of a charcuterie board, accompanied by cheeses, meats, and spreads for an elevated appetizer spread.

Top It Off

Brush each freshly baked roll with melted butter or drizzle them with garlic butter for a savory touch. For a sweet option, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or glaze with a mix of powdered sugar and milk.

Presentation Tips

For gatherings, arrange the rolls in a basket lined with a linen towel to keep them warm. Add sprigs of fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for an inviting and aromatic display.

Occasion	Serving Style	Accompaniments
Holiday Dinner	On a platter for the table	Gravy, stuffing, cranberry sauce
Soup Night	Served warm in a side basket	Creamy soup, chili, or stews
Breakfast or Brunch	Warmed with spreads	Butter, jams, honey, scrambled eggs
Party or Gathering	As sliders or on a charcuterie tray	Deli meats, cheeses, garlic butter, spreads

No matter how you serve them, these rolls are guaranteed to enhance any occasion with their irresistible, homemade charm.

Conclusion

Baking rolls with a KitchenAid mixer transforms a seemingly complex process into an effortless and rewarding experience. With the right tools, fresh ingredients, and a few expert tips, creating soft, golden rolls becomes a joy rather than a chore. These versatile rolls bring warmth and homemade charm to any table, whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or enjoying a quiet family dinner.

By following the step-by-step recipe and incorporating make-ahead options, we can enjoy freshly baked rolls without the stress of last-minute prep. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of serving perfectly baked bread that everyone will love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of flour is best for these rolls?

Use high-quality all-purpose flour for the softest and fluffiest rolls. If desired, bread flour can also be used for added structure.

How do I properly activate yeast for the recipe?

Dissolve active dry yeast in warm milk (around 100-110°F) with a bit of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight or freeze unbaked rolls. Follow the article’s detailed instructions for both methods to ensure the best results.

Why is a KitchenAid mixer recommended?

A KitchenAid mixer simplifies the kneading process, ensuring consistent dough texture while saving time and effort.

How long does the dough need to rise?

The dough typically needs to rise for 1-2 hours initially and 30-45 minutes for the second rise, depending on room temperature.

What’s the best way to reheat baked rolls?

Wrap the baked rolls in foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warm.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the recipe’s added salt slightly to balance the flavor.

How do I achieve golden brown rolls?

Bake the rolls at the recommended temperature and brush them with melted butter immediately after baking for a shiny, golden finish.

Are these rolls suitable for holiday meals?

Absolutely! These soft and fluffy rolls pair perfectly with holiday feasts, soups, and everyday dinners.

Can I use the dough to make other bread shapes?

Yes, you can shape the dough into loaves, braids, or other forms while maintaining the same delicious taste.