When it comes to baking bread at home, many people shy away because they think it’s time-consuming or too complicated. But what if I told you that you could make soft, fluffy dinner rolls without the hassle of kneading? That’s where these no knead dinner rolls come in—a simple, stress-free way to get bakery-worthy rolls right from your own oven.

Whether you’re planning a holiday meal, a weeknight dinner, or a special occasion, this no-knead dinner roll recipe delivers every time. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be amazed at the results.

Why No Knead Dinner Rolls Work

The beauty of dinner rolls no knead is in the chemistry. Instead of using physical kneading to develop the gluten in the dough, this method relies on time. An extended resting period allows the flour to absorb the water, and gluten forms naturally without any muscle power. The result? Light, pillowy rolls with a soft interior and perfectly golden exterior.

This method is perfect for beginner bakers or anyone short on time. Plus, it’s incredibly forgiving—making it a staple in any baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best no knead dinner rolls, you only need a handful of pantry staples:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for shaping)
• 1 packet instant yeast
• 2 tbsp white sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1½ cups warm milk
• 4 tbsp country crock spread, melted and slightly cooled
• Finish with melted Country Crock
• Optional: An egg wash for a glossy top or a sprinkle of sea salt or herbs for extra flavor.

Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir this into the dry ingredients using a spatula until everything is combined into a sticky dough. Don’t worry about kneading — just mix until no dry bits remain.

First Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and leave it in a warm place for about 1½ to 2 hours, until it doubles in size and looks puffy.

Shape the Rolls: Lightly dust a surface with flour. Tip out the dough and gently deflate it. Sprinkle with a little more flour if needed so it’s easier to handle. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (a kitchen scale helps here). Shape each one into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath. Arrange the dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spaced evenly.

Second Rise: Cover the baking dish with a towel and let the rolls rise again in a warm spot for 30–40 minutes – until nearly doubled in size.

Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until golden on top and cooked through.

Finish with Country Crock: As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush the tops with melted Country Crock for that beautiful sheen and added flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Pour in the warm water and melted butter. Stir with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until the dough is fully combined. It should be shaggy and sticky—this is perfect for a no-knead dinner roll dough.

2. Let It Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise at room temperature for 1½ to 2 hours, or until doubled in size. If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl in a warm (but turned-off) oven or near a sunny window.

3. Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, lightly flour your hands and a surface. Gently deflate the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball by tucking the edges under and rolling it gently between your palms.

Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

4. Second Rise

Cover the rolls loosely with a towel and let them rise again for about 30–45 minutes. They should puff up and nearly double in size. This second rise ensures ultra-soft texture in your finished no knead dinner rolls.

5. Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using an egg wash, brush it on now for that golden, glossy finish. Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and they sound hollow when tapped.

6. Finish with Country Crock

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them with melted Country Crock for that soft, buttery top. Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Tips for Perfect No Knead Dinner Rolls

• Use instant yeast: It’s faster and eliminates the need to proof in water separately.

• Don’t over-flour: The dough should be sticky; resist the urge to add too much flour.

• Make ahead: You can prep the dough the night before and refrigerate it after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

• Add-ins: Feel free to mix in garlic powder, rosemary, shredded cheese, or even a touch of honey to customize the flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Rolls

• Easy and beginner-friendly

• No mixer or kneading required

• Soft, fluffy, and buttery every time

• Versatile—perfect for holidays, burgers, or breakfast sandwiches

• Freezer-friendly—they reheat beautifully

Serving Ideas

These no knead dinner rolls are incredibly versatile. Serve them:

• With holiday dinners like Thanksgiving or Christmas

• As sliders with pulled pork or chicken

• With soups and stews

• For breakfast with jam and butter

• As a side for pasta dishes

Storing and Freezing

To store: Keep rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best texture.

To freeze: Let baked rolls cool completely, then freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to refresh.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes! Just proof the yeast first in the warm water with the sugar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes before mixing with the dry ingredients.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure to use a larger pan or two pans so the rolls have room to rise and bake evenly.

How sticky should the dough be?

Sticky is good! If it’s too dry, your rolls may be dense. Lightly flour your hands when shaping, but avoid overworking the dough.

These dinner rolls no knead will change the way you think about homemade bread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total beginner, you’ll appreciate how simple and delicious this recipe is. From their soft, airy texture to their buttery finish, these no knead dinner rolls are sure to become a family favorite.

Next time you want fresh-baked bread without the fuss, give these a try. You won’t miss the kneading—and neither will your dinner guests.

Pin it, share it, bake it—these rolls are too good not to make again and again. If you’re looking for other bread recipes, click here.