Introduction
Have you ever craved warm, fluffy dinner rolls, only to realize you’re out of yeast? Or maybe you’re looking for a quicker alternative to traditional bread recipes that require hours of proofing and rising. If so, you’re in the right place! This no yeast dinner rolls recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, last-minute meals, or anyone who wants homemade bread without the hassle of yeast.
Baking bread from scratch often feels like a time-consuming task, but with these no yeast dinner rolls, you can enjoy soft, buttery, and perfectly golden rolls in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making a cozy homemade dinner, preparing for a holiday feast, or simply need a quick bread option, this recipe delivers all the goodness of classic dinner rolls—without the wait.
One of the biggest challenges in baking is waiting for dough to rise. Traditional yeast rolls require proofing, sometimes multiple times, which can take hours. But with this easy no yeast dinner rolls recipe, you can skip the waiting and still get incredibly soft and delicious rolls that everyone will love. This recipe uses baking powder as a leavening agent, allowing the rolls to rise beautifully in the oven without the need for yeast.
Not only are these no yeast dinner rolls quick to make, but they also require simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Plus, they are incredibly versatile—serve them with soups, stews, holiday meals, or even as a snack with jam or butter.
If you’ve never baked bread before or if you’re simply looking for a foolproof alternative to traditional yeast rolls, this is the recipe for you. Let’s dive into how you can make these delicious no yeast dinner rolls in just a few simple steps!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This No Yeast Dinner Rolls Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this no yeast dinner rolls recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just starting out, this recipe offers a quick, foolproof way to enjoy homemade bread without the hassle of yeast. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:
1. Quick & Easy – Ready in Under 30 Minutes
One of the best things about this no yeast dinner rolls recipe is how fast and simple it is to make. Unlike traditional yeast-based rolls that require hours of proofing and kneading, this recipe comes together in just a few minutes. Simply mix the ingredients, shape the dough, and bake—your warm, fluffy rolls will be ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes!
2. No Yeast, No Waiting, No Hassle
If you’ve ever tried making yeast bread, you know the waiting game can be frustrating. Proofing dough, ensuring the right temperature, and getting the yeast to activate properly can be time-consuming and tricky. With these no yeast dinner rolls, you skip all of that. The secret? Baking powder acts as a natural leavening agent, helping the rolls rise beautifully without the need for yeast.
3. Uses Simple, Pantry-Ready Ingredients
No special ingredients required! This recipe uses everyday kitchen staples like:
✔ Flour – The base for soft, fluffy rolls
✔ Baking Powder – The key to rising without yeast
✔ Milk – Adds moisture and tenderness
✔ Butter – Enhances the flavor and gives a rich, buttery taste
✔ Honey or Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness
Chances are, you already have everything you need to whip up these no yeast dinner rolls right now!
4. Perfect for Any Meal & Occasion
These no yeast dinner rolls are incredibly versatile. They pair wonderfully with just about any dish, making them a go-to side for:
- Soups & Stews – Dunk them in a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
- Holiday Feasts – Serve them alongside turkey, ham, or roast beef for an easy homemade bread option.
- Everyday Dinners – Perfect with pasta, salads, or grilled meats.
- Breakfast or Snacks – Spread with butter, jam, or honey for a quick and delicious treat.
5. Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved
If you have picky eaters at home, these no yeast dinner rolls will be a game-changer. Soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, they are a hit with kids and adults alike. You can even involve your little ones in the baking process—let them mix the dough or roll it into balls for fun, homemade rolls made with love.
6. Easily Customizable
Want to add extra flavor? This recipe is super adaptable! Try these fun variations:
- Cheesy Rolls – Mix in shredded cheese for a gooey, cheesy delight.
- Garlic Herb Rolls – Add garlic powder and Italian herbs for a savory twist.
- Sweet Honey Rolls – Increase the honey and top with cinnamon butter for a dessert-like treat.
7. No Special Equipment Needed
Unlike some bread recipes that require a stand mixer or a dough hook, these no yeast dinner rolls come together easily with just a mixing bowl and a spoon. No kneading, no bread machine, no fuss—just simple, homemade goodness.
8. Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly
Need to plan ahead? These rolls store beautifully!
- Short-Term Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months—just thaw and warm them in the oven when needed.
Ingredients for No Yeast Dinner Rolls
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making these no yeast dinner rolls soft, flavorful, and perfectly golden. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need, why it’s important, and possible substitutions.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose & Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups | Provides structure and texture. Substitute up to half with whole wheat flour for a heartier roll. |
| Baking Powder | 1 tbsp | Acts as the leavening agent, making the rolls rise. Ensure it’s fresh for the best results. |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances flavor. If using salted butter, reduce the amount slightly. |
| Milk (or Buttermilk) | ¾ cup | Hydrates the dough and adds richness. Buttermilk creates extra fluffiness. Substitute with dairy-free milk if needed. |
| Butter (melted) | ¼ cup | Adds moisture, softness, and flavor. Use vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. |
| Honey or Sugar | 1 tbsp | Adds slight sweetness and aids in browning. Swap with maple syrup or agave nectar if preferred. |
Pro Tip: Want an extra soft texture? Add 1-2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream for even fluffier rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make No Yeast Dinner Rolls
Making these no yeast dinner rolls is incredibly simple, and the best part is that they’re ready in under 30 minutes! Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your rolls come out soft, fluffy, and delicious every time.
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven & Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Before you start mixing your ingredients, you’ll want to get your oven ready:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even bake and helps the rolls puff up properly.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
💡 Pro Tip: If you like extra-crispy bottoms, you can use a cast iron skillet or a baking stone instead of a regular baking sheet.
Step 2 – Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
✔ 2 cups all-purpose flour
✔ 1 tablespoon baking powder (this replaces yeast and helps the rolls rise)
✔ ½ teaspoon salt
Mixing these ingredients first ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed, which leads to a uniform rise in your no yeast dinner rolls.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want fluffier rolls, sift the flour before measuring to incorporate more air into the dough.
Step 3 – Add the Wet Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add the ingredients that bring moisture and flavor to the dough. Pour the following into the bowl with the dry ingredients:
✔ ¾ cup milk (or buttermilk) – Adds softness and moisture
✔ ¼ cup melted butter – Gives a rich, buttery flavor
✔ 1 tablespoon honey or sugar – Adds a slight sweetness
How to Mix:
- Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix the ingredients together.
- Stir until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the rolls dense instead of fluffy.
💡 Pro Tip: If the dough feels too dry, add an extra splash of milk (1 tablespoon at a time). If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.
Step 4 – Shape the Rolls
Now that your dough is ready, it’s time to form the rolls:
- Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking.
- Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions, depending on how big you want your rolls.
- Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them evenly on your prepared baking sheet.
- For a softer texture, place the rolls closer together so they touch slightly. If you want crispier edges, space them apart.
💡 Pro Tip: For perfectly even rolls, use an ice cream scoop or kitchen scale to ensure equal dough portions.
Step 5 – Bake the Rolls
- Place the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top.
- To check for doneness, tap the top of a roll—if it sounds hollow, they’re ready!
💡 Pro Tip: If you want an extra golden-brown crust, brush the tops with melted butter halfway through baking.
Step 6 – Brush with Butter & Serve
As soon as you take the rolls out of the oven:
✔ Brush them with melted butter for extra richness.
✔ Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
💡 Serving Ideas:
- Pair with soups, stews, pasta, or grilled meats.
- Serve warm with honey, jam, or garlic butter for extra flavor.
- Use them for mini sandwiches or sliders.
Tips & Variations for the Best No Yeast Dinner Rolls
Making perfect no yeast dinner rolls is easy with a few key tips and creative variations. Whether you want them softer, fluffier, or bursting with flavor, these tricks will take your rolls to the next level!
Tips for the Softest & Fluffiest No Yeast Dinner Rolls
✔ Use Buttermilk Instead of Regular Milk – The acidity makes the rolls extra tender. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ¾ cup milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
✔ Avoid Overmixing the Dough – Stir until just combined to prevent tough rolls.
✔ Let the Dough Rest for 5-10 Minutes – This gives the baking powder time to activate, leading to a better rise.
✔ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Cold milk or butter can slow the rising process.
✔ Cover Rolls with a Towel After Baking – This traps steam, keeping them soft and moist.
Flavor Variations for No Yeast Dinner Rolls
These no yeast dinner rolls are delicious as-is, but here are some creative ways to enhance their flavor:
- Garlic Butter Rolls: Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder to the dough and brush with garlic butter after baking.
- Cheesy Rolls: Mix ¼ cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan into the dough for a gooey, cheesy bite.
- Honey Butter Rolls: Increase honey to 2 tablespoons and brush warm rolls with a honey-butter glaze.
- Herb & Olive Oil Rolls: Replace butter with olive oil and mix in 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs.
- Cinnamon Sugar Rolls: Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 2 tablespoons sugar to the dough, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before serving.
How to Store & Reheat No Yeast Dinner Rolls
✔ Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for 5 days; reheat before serving.
✔ Freezing: Store for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving too long, as it can make the rolls tough.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Too Dense? Overmixing or expired baking powder could be the cause.
- Too Dry? Too much flour—measure it correctly using the spoon-and-level method.
- Pale Tops? Brush with milk or egg wash before baking for a golden-brown finish.
FAQs About No Yeast Dinner Rolls
Q1: Can I make these no yeast dinner rolls gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour and add 1 tsp xanthan gum for structure.
Q2: Why are my no yeast dinner rolls dense?
If they turn out dense, check if:
- Your baking powder is fresh.
- You didn’t overmix the dough.
Q3: Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use almond milk and vegan butter instead.
Q4: What can I serve with these rolls?
They pair well with soups, stews, pasta dishes, and even breakfast spreads.
Conclusion
In just under 30 minutes, you can enjoy soft, fluffy no yeast dinner rolls made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want fresh bread without the wait. You don’t need yeast, special equipment, or a lot of time—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
These rolls are perfect for any meal, whether it’s a cozy dinner, a holiday feast, or a snack. Plus, with so many flavor variations—like garlic butter, cheese, or cinnamon sugar—you can customize them to fit your taste.
Baking bread doesn’t have to be complicated. With this no yeast dinner rolls recipe, you can enjoy homemade bread in no time. So, next time you’re craving fresh rolls, give this simple recipe a try—you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!