These butter-enriched yeast rolls are soft, fluffy, and delightfully rich, making them the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. With golden, glossy tops and a subtle sweetness throughout, these rolls are a comforting, home-baked indulgence. Topped with crunchy poppy seeds and brushed with buttery glaze, they deliver just the right mix of tender crumb and delicate crispness. Whether you serve them fresh from the oven or enjoy them the next day with tea or coffee, these homemade rolls are destined to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
Baking these rolls requires a bit of patience for the rising stages, but the end result is well worth it.

• • Preparation Time: 30 minutes

  • First Rise Time: 1 hour

• • Second Rise Time: 30 minutes

  • Baking Time: 30 minutes

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Yield
Makes 12 large rolls

Cuisine
European-inspired, traditional home baking

A Full List of Ingredients

For the Dough

• • 250 ml lukewarm milk

• • 1/4 cup sugar (about 50g)

  • 1 tablespoon (7g) active dry yeast

  • 1 egg

• • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 550g to 650g all-purpose flour (start with 550g and add more if needed)

  • 80g (1/3 cup) unsalted butter, softened

For Rolling/Layering

• • 80g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted

For Glazing

• • 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon milk

For Topping

• • Poppy seeds (as desired)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Activate the Yeast
Pour the lukewarm milk into a large mixing bowl. Stir in the sugar, then sprinkle the dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes until frothy—this ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and salt to the yeast mixture and whisk until combined.

3. Add the Flour and Butter
Begin mixing in the flour gradually, starting with 550g. As the dough begins to come together, add the softened butter and continue kneading—either by hand or with a stand mixer using the dough hook attachment—until you get a smooth, elastic dough. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, up to 100g more, until manageable but still soft.

4. First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Divide and Shape
Punch down the dough gently and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Let them rest, covered, for 15 minutes to relax the gluten.

6. Roll Out and Butter
Roll each piece into an oval or rectangle. Brush each with melted butter, then roll it up tightly like a jelly roll. Place each roll seam-side down onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

7. Second Rise
Cover the rolls loosely and allow them to rise again for 30 minutes until puffy.

8. Preheat Oven
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).

9. Glaze and Top
Mix the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of milk to make an egg wash. Brush each roll generously, then sprinkle poppy seeds on top.

10. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll)

• • Calories: 280 kcal

  • Protein: 6g

  • Fat: 10g

• • Carbohydrates: 38g

  • Fiber: 1.5g

  • Sugar: 5g

• Sodium: 170mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

These rolls draw inspiration from traditional European baking—particularly from Slavic and Central European cultures where enriched doughs are a staple. Poppy seeds are often used in sweet and savory breads across Eastern Europe, Germany, and Jewish cuisine. This version blends the rich texture of brioche-style bread with rustic charm, making it an enduring favorite from breakfast tables to holiday feasts.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture

  • Slightly sweet, perfectly balanced flavor

• • Visually stunning with a glossy, golden crust

  • Ideal for entertaining or enjoying with family

  • Freezes well and stays soft for days

Health Benefits

While not a health food, these rolls offer moderate nutrition:

• • Eggs add protein and vitamins

  • Milk provides calcium and creaminess

• Poppy seeds contain fiber, calcium, and essential fatty acids

• Homemade means no preservatives, artificial flavors, or additives

Serving Suggestions

• • Spread with fruit jam or honey for breakfast

  • Use as a sandwich bun for turkey, ham, or grilled cheese

• • Serve alongside soups or stews

  • Make mini sliders for parties

  • Enjoy with coffee or hot tea for an afternoon treat

Cooking Tips

• • For extra flavor, infuse the milk with a cinnamon stick or vanilla bean before using

• • Always ensure your yeast is fresh and not expired

  • Don’t overwork the dough—knead until just smooth and elastic

  • For a crispier top, bake uncovered the last 5 minutes

• Use a thermometer: baked bread should reach 190–200°F (88–93°C) internally

Variations to Try

• • With Filling: Add a spoon of Nutella or jam before rolling

  • Savory: Add grated cheese and herbs inside

  • Topped with Nuts: Replace poppy seeds with chopped walnuts or almonds

• Mini Bites: Make 24 smaller rolls for finger food

• Cinnamon Sugar Version: Skip poppy seeds and roll dough in cinnamon sugar before baking

Conclusion

These butter-enriched yeast rolls are a wonderful blend of traditional baking and everyday comfort. Whether you bake them for holidays, a special breakfast, or just because, they bring the cozy aroma of fresh bread and the satisfaction of something homemade. Tender on the inside, golden on top, and kissed with buttery richness—they’re bound to become a beloved addition to your baking collection.