Leslie’s Rolls!
Leslie’s Dinner Rolls
Looking for the perfect yeast rolls? Leslie’s Rolls deliver every time. Light, airy, and brushed with melted butter, these rolls are a must-have for your Thanksgiving spread, Sunday dinners, or even as a snack fresh from the oven. With step-by-step instructions and tips for perfect dough every time, this recipe is ideal for home bakers of all levels.
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. These soft, buttery yeast rolls—fondly known in our family as Leslie’s Rolls—are more than just a side dish; they’re a tradition. Simple to make yet irresistibly delicious, they’re perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any time you want to bring a little extra warmth to the table. Ready to bake a batch of joy? Let’s get started!
Watch my step-by-step video for this recipe on YouTube.
Learn how to make Leslie’s Rolls by watching my YouTube tutorial.
Ingredients
4 cups (500g) all-purpose or bread flour
3/4 (150g) cup sugar
1 tsp salt (5g)
2 packages rapid-rise dry yeast (15g)
1/2 cup (110g) butter, unsalted
1 cup milk (240ml)
3 extra-large eggs, slightly beaten
3/4 cup (170g) melted butter, divided for use after the rise (proof) and baking
Method
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
Attach the paddle beater and mix briefly to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large microwave-safe measuring cup or jug, combine the butter and milk, warming gently until the butter melts. Remove from the microwave oven.
Slightly beat the eggs and add to the milk and butter mixture; check the temperature, which should reach 120°F-130°F (49°C-54°C).
3. Mix the Dough
Switch to the dough hook attachment on the stand mixer.
Pour the warm liquid mixture into the dry ingredients.
Mix on medium speed, allowing the dough hook to combine and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic (approximately 6-8 minutes).
3. Rest the Dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes.
4. Shape the Rolls
Turn the dough out in small batches onto a floured work surface.
For Parker House rolls: Roll out the dough, cut into circles, and fold each circle in half. Place close together on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
For Cloverleaf rolls: Use a bench scraper to cut the dough into equal pieces, then roll into small balls and place three balls into each cup of a greased muffin tin.
5. Cover & Let Rise
Place the shaped rolls on the prepared pans and cover loosely.
Let them rise (proof) in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
Just before baking, generously brush or pour a divided portion of melted butter (56-85g) over the risen (proven) dough.
6. Bake the Rolls
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown.
7. Finish with More Butter
Immediately after removing the rolls from the oven, generously brush or pour remainder of the melted butter (or more) over the hot rolls. This final touch ensures a rich, glossy finish and deep buttery flavor.
Final notes:
Use a parchment-lined baking sheet for Parker House rolls to prevent sticking.
Be lavish with the butter—it’s what makes these rolls unforgettable!
