In the heart of the Midwest, where the fields stretch wide and the seasons paint the land in vibrant hues, there's a comforting tradition of baking that brings families together. These honey-glazed dinner rolls are a cherished staple at our family gatherings, their sweet aroma filling the kitchen with warmth and promise. The recipe has been passed down through generations, a testament to the enduring love of homemade bread. The honey glaze adds a touch of sweetness that makes these rolls irresistible, perfect for any occasion where you want to share a bit of home-baked love.

These honey-glazed dinner rolls are a versatile delight that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside a hearty beef stew or a roasted chicken for a comforting meal. They also complement a fresh garden salad or a bowl of creamy soup. For a special touch, offer them with a selection of homemade jams and butter, allowing the sweet and savory flavors to dance together on the palate.

Servings: 12

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1/4 cup honey (for glaze)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for glaze)
Coarse sugar crystals for sprinkling

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

Stir in the honey, melted butter, salt, and egg until well combined.

Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased glass baking dish.

Cover and let the rolls rise again until doubled, about 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the honey and melted butter.

Brush the hot rolls with the honey-butter glaze and sprinkle with coarse sugar crystals.

Let the rolls cool slightly before serving.

For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spiced version. If you prefer a savory touch, sprinkle the rolls with sea salt instead of sugar after glazing. You can also incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist. These rolls can be made ahead of time and frozen; simply reheat them in the oven before serving.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove