Description

These Soft Onion Rolls are fluffy, golden, and bursting with sweet, savory onion flavor. Perfect as a side dish, for sandwiches, or as part of a holiday spread, these rolls are tender on the inside with just the right amount of chew. The sautéed onion folded into the dough adds incredible flavor, making them a delicious upgrade from classic dinner rolls.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)

2 tablespoons sugar

3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra as needed)

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons melted butter

1 egg, room temperature

For Topping (optional):

1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk (egg wash)

1 tablespoon dried onion flakes or sesame seeds

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the onions
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 6–8 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 2: Activate the yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 3: Make the dough
Add melted butter, egg, salt, flour, and cooled onions. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead by hand (8–10 minutes) or with a stand mixer (5 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: First rise
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the rolls
Punch down the dough. Divide into 12 equal portions and shape into balls. Place onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased 9×13-inch pan.
Step 6: Second rise
Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush rolls with egg wash and sprinkle with dried onion flakes or sesame seeds if desired. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with butter, as sandwich rolls, or alongside dinner.

Notes

For deeper flavor, caramelize onions instead of just sautéing.
Add cheese or herbs for extra flavor variations.
Store in an airtight container to keep rolls soft.
Freezer-friendly—thaw and reheat before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American