why make this recipe

Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal. They are soft, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up your favorite sauces and gravies. Making them from scratch adds a personal touch to your dining experience, and their unique shape makes them fun and inviting. Whether for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or a simple weeknight meal, these rolls are sure to impress.

how to make Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls

Ingredients:

3 Tbsp warm water (115˚F)
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet yeast)
1 cup low-fat milk (warm (105-110˚F))
5 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted or very soft, plus more for the pan)
3 Tbsp granulated sugar
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 tsp fine sea salt
3 1/2 cups bread flour (divided; add an extra 1/4 cup if needed)
3 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided, melted)
1 tsp kosher salt

Directions:

In the bowl of a stand mixer, add warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it rest uncovered for 7 minutes until it gets foamy.
Add warm milk, melted butter, sugar, egg, and salt, and mix well.
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of flour, then switch to a dough hook. Incorporate the remaining flour in thirds until the dough is smooth and not sticky.
Knead the dough for 10 minutes, either with a stand mixer or by hand. Then, transfer it to an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size (about 1 to 1.5 hours).
Divide the risen dough into 12 pieces, then further divide each piece into 3 small balls. Place three balls in each buttered muffin cup.
Lightly cover with oiled plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 425˚F. Once the rolls have risen, brush them with melted butter and bake for 13-15 minutes until they are golden brown.
Brush with additional melted butter after baking and sprinkle with kosher salt. Let cool slightly and serve warm.

how to serve Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls

Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls are perfect as a side to any meal. Serve them warm with butter for spreading or alongside soups and stews. They also make a wonderful addition to holiday meals and gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy them as a light and fluffy treat.

how to store Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls

To store Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave.

tips to make Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls

Make sure your water and milk are at the right temperatures to activate the yeast properly.
If your dough feels sticky during kneading, you can gradually add a little more flour until it reaches the right consistency.
Use a light touch when forming the rolls to keep them fluffy.
For extra flavor, you can add herbs or garlic to the melted butter before brushing it on the rolls.

variation

You can experiment with variations of Cloverleaf Dinner Rolls by adding different ingredients such as herbs, cheese, or spices to the dough. Consider incorporating garlic for a savory touch or cheese for a rich flavor.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but bread flour gives the rolls a chewier texture and better rise.

How do I know if my yeast is active?
Your yeast is active if it becomes foamy after resting in warm water. If there is no foam, the yeast might be dead, and you should try a new packet.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise once, refrigerate it, and shape the rolls in the morning. Allow them to rise again before baking.