Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls
If you’re looking for a simple and delicious way to elevate your mealtime, you’ve come to the right place! These Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls are a family favorite that I love to whip up, especially on busy weeknights or during gatherings with friends. The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or a lot of time to make them. Just mix, let them rise, and bake! They come out golden and fluffy every time, making them the perfect addition to any meal.
What I adore about these rolls is how they fill your kitchen with the most heavenly aroma while baking. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty soup or using them for sliders at your next barbecue, these rolls are sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make ahead of time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super simple preparation: No kneading required! Just mix and let the dough rise.
- Family-friendly appeal: Kids love these soft rolls – they disappear quickly!
- Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when needed.
- Delicious flavor: Buttery and warm, these rolls are comfort food at its finest.
- Versatile serving options: Perfect as a side dish or used in creative ways for meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you need for these delightful Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls:
For the Dough
- 2 (1/4 oz each) packets rapid rise yeast (i.e., Fleischmann’s or similar)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (plus 1 tsp)
- 1 1/3 cup milk (may use water)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 8 Tbsp butter (divided)
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
- Add herbs: Mix in dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy goodness: Fold in shredded cheese before shaping the rolls for a cheesy surprise.
- Sweet rolls: Add cinnamon and a bit more sugar for sweet breakfast rolls; serve with honey or jam!
- Garlic butter topping: Brush with garlic-infused butter before baking for mouthwatering garlic rolls.
How to Make Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large measuring cup, dissolve both packets of yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in 1 1/3 cup of lukewarm milk or water (about 110°F). It’s crucial that the liquid is lukewarm because hot liquid will kill the yeast, preventing your rolls from rising. Let this mixture sit on the counter for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy—this is how you know your yeast is active!
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
While your yeast blooms, grab a large mixing bowl. Use a whisk to sift together flour, salt, and remaining sugar. This step not only combines everything but also aerates your flour—resulting in lighter rolls! Don’t forget to add in that large egg; it helps enrich the dough.
Step 3: Mix It All Together
Once your yeast has developed nicely, gradually pour it into the bowl with your dry ingredients along with 5 tablespoons of melted butter. Using a large silicone spoon or spatula, start blending everything together. This method makes incorporating all that flour so much easier—you want a nice sticky dough without any dry spots.
Step 4: Let It Rise
After mixing well, turn out your dough into a buttered bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Now comes the hard part—waiting! Let it sit in a warm place for about an hour until it doubles in size. This rising process gives those rolls their fluffy texture.
Step 5: Shape Your Rolls
Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. You can now use a medium-sized ice cream scoop (lightly sprayed with cooking spray) or pinch off pieces by hand—aim for golf ball-sized portions. Roll each piece into a ball by stretching and folding it under itself; this creates tension on the surface which will help them rise beautifully!
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Arrange your shaped rolls side by side in a buttered non-stick metal baking pan (a springform pan works great!). Melt those last 3 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops of each roll—this adds flavor and ensures they brown nicely.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover your prepared rolls again with that damp cloth and let them rise until doubled once more (about one hour). This second rise ensures they’re super fluffy when they go into the oven.
Step 8: Bake Those Rolls!
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Once ready, uncover those beautiful risen rolls and pop them into the oven to bake for about 20-22 minutes until puffed up and golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 9: Serve Warm
When they’re done baking, take them out and brush on some reserved melted butter if desired. Serve these warm alongside any meal or simply enjoy them on their own!
Bonus Tip: Make Ahead!
These Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls can also be made ahead of time! After forming them into balls, cover loosely with plastic wrap sprayed with cooking spray and refrigerate overnight. Before baking, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 45 minutes to an hour before brushing with melted butter and baking as instructed.
I hope you enjoy making these delightful rolls as much as I do! They truly bring warmth and joy to every dinner table.
Pro Tips for Making Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls
Making the perfect yeast rolls can seem daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to baking success!
- Use Lukewarm Liquid: Ensuring your milk or water is at the right temperature (around 110°F) is crucial. Too hot, and you risk killing the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly.
- Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Spot: Place your covered dough in a warm, draft-free area. This encourages yeast activity and helps the rolls rise beautifully for that light and fluffy texture.
- Don’t Rush the Second Rise: Be patient during the second rise after shaping the rolls. This extra time allows them to puff up even more, resulting in soft and airy rolls that are perfect for any meal.
- Brush with Butter Before Baking: Applying melted butter before baking not only adds flavor but also gives your rolls a lovely golden color. Plus, brushing them again after baking keeps them moist and delicious!
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to get creative! Adding herbs, garlic powder, or cheese to the dough can give these rolls an exciting twist.
How to Serve Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls
These lovely rolls are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, they will surely impress.
Garnishes
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling some chopped parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Flaky Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving enhances the flavor of the rolls beautifully.
- Honey Butter: Serve them warm with a side of honey butter for an extra touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with their soft texture.
Side Dishes
- Hearty Soup: Pair these rolls with a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. The rich flavors complement each other wonderfully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings out earthy flavors that harmonize nicely with buttery rolls.
- Green Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, soft rolls.
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: These rolls make an excellent companion to grilled chicken or fish dishes, adding substance and comfort to your meal.
With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to create unforgettable moments around your dining table with these Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
These Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance, allowing you to enjoy fresh rolls whenever you need them. Here’s how to store and handle your leftover rolls:
Storing Leftovers
- Place any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable bag.
Freezing
- To freeze, allow the rolls to cool completely.
- Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- To reheat frozen rolls, take them out of the freezer and let them thaw on the counter for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
If you have questions about making these rolls, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I make Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and form it into rolls, then refrigerate them overnight. Just let them rise before baking for perfectly fluffy rolls!
How do I ensure my Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls turn out fluffy?
Make sure your yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date. Additionally, allow the dough ample time to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size for light and airy rolls.
What should I do if my yeast doesn’t bloom?
If your yeast mixture doesn’t bubble after letting it sit, it may be inactive. Consider starting over with new yeast to ensure your rolls rise properly.
Can I use alternative milk for Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls?
Yes! You can use almond milk or oat milk as substitutes for regular milk. Just make sure they are lukewarm when you mix them with the yeast.
What dishes pair well with these Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls?
These delicious rolls complement many meals! Serve them alongside soups, stews, or even as part of a hearty salad feast.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls! They are not only simple but also incredibly satisfying to enjoy fresh from the oven. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a comforting side dish for your family meal, these rolls are sure to impress. Happy baking!
Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls
Elevate your dining experience with these Easy No Knead Yeast Rolls! Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this recipe yields golden, fluffy rolls without the need for any fancy equipment or kneading. Simply mix the ingredients, let the dough rise, and bake to perfection. The heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting the first bite. Whether served alongside a hearty soup or used for sliders at a barbecue, these rolls are versatile and sure to impress. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 packets rapid rise yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/3 cup lukewarm milk (or water)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 8 Tbsp butter (divided)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast by dissolving it with a teaspoon of sugar in lukewarm milk or water; let it sit until bubbly.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and remaining sugar. Whisk in the egg.
- Gradually add the yeast mixture and melted butter into the dry ingredients; stir until you have a sticky dough.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about an hour).
- Shape into golf ball-sized rolls and place in a greased baking pan.
- Allow for a second rise until puffy (about another hour).
- Bake at 400°F for 20-22 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (40g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
