Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
2️⃣ Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand or with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes, until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky.
3️⃣ First Rise:
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4️⃣ Shape the Cloverleaf Rolls:
Grease a standard 12-cup muffin pan. Punch down the dough and divide it into 36 small balls (about the size of a ping pong ball). Place 3 balls in each muffin cup to form the cloverleaf shape.
5️⃣ Second Rise:
Cover the pan loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until puffy and just about doubled.
6️⃣ Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 14–16 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
7️⃣ Brush with Butter & Serve:
Remove from oven and brush immediately with melted butter. Serve warm and watch them disappear.
Pro Tips for Fluffy Roll Success:
- Use warm—not hot—milk: Too hot will kill the yeast. Aim for 105–110°F.
- Room temperature eggs mix better: Let them sit out for 15 minutes before using.
- Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs to the melted butter before brushing.
Why You’ll Love These Cloverleaf Rolls:
- Pull-Apart Layers: Each roll is made of three buttery bites.
- Soft, Fluffy Texture: Thanks to milk, eggs, and just the right kneading.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping ahead and baking fresh.
Nutritional Info (per roll, approx.):
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbs: ~28g
- Fat: ~8g
- Fiber: ~1g
FAQ About Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls:
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! After the first rise, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temp before shaping and continuing with the second rise.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
Yes—just skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Troubleshooting & Tips:
- Dough not rising? Check that your yeast is fresh and your milk isn’t too hot.
- Rolls too dense? Be sure to knead the dough long enough to develop gluten.
- Over-browning? Tent the rolls with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Flavor Twists to Try:
- Cheesy Pull-Apart: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan in between dough balls.
- Sweet Version: Add a tablespoon of honey or cinnamon sugar to the dough.
- Herb Infused: Stir chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the melted butter.
Perfect For:
- Holiday meals and dinner parties
- Sunday suppers and cozy casseroles
- Bread baskets and brunch spreads
- Homemade gift baskets
- Freezer-friendly batch baking
Soft, Buttery, and Baked to Perfection:
The Softest Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls are golden, fluffy, and filled with pull-apart charm. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, these rolls will be your new go-to. Serve them warm, and don’t forget the butter!
Tried them? Tag us—we want to see your homemade roll magic!
