Let’s face it—yeast can be a dealbreaker. Whether it’s the long rising times, the precise proofing environment, or simply forgetting to buy it, yeast often stands in the way of making fresh bread at home. But what if I told you that you can whip up a batch of warm, fluffy, golden-brown dinner rolls without a single granule of yeast?
This is where this recipe shines. These easy dinner rolls without yeast are everything you need in a last-minute bread solution: quick, tender, and satisfying. Perfect for weeknights, brunches, lazy weekends, or unexpected guests, they come together with pantry staples and no complicated steps.
Whether you’re new to baking or just craving something warm and comforting, these no-yeast rolls are a must-try. Let’s dive into how to make them the right way—every time.
2. Why Make Dinner Rolls Without Yeast?
Baking without yeast isn’t just a workaround—it’s a lifestyle hack. Here are some reasons why this method works wonders:
➤ Speed
Yeast needs time to rise. These rolls? From bowl to oven in under 10 minutes. You’ll have hot, fresh bread on the table faster than delivery.
➤ Beginner-Friendly
No need to understand proofing, bloom time, or gluten development. If you can stir, you can make these.
➤ Pantry-Only Ingredients
We use staple items found in almost every kitchen. No eggs, no butter, and definitely no yeast needed.
➤ Perfect Texture
Thanks to the surprising addition of mayonnaise, these rolls are soft, rich, and slightly tangy—mimicking the depth of yeast bread without the wait.
3. Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at the simple but powerful ingredients that make these rolls possible.
| Ingredient | Role in the Recipe |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Provides structure and body |
| Baking Powder | Leavening agent that replaces yeast |
| Salt | Enhances flavor and balances sweetness |
| Sugar | Promotes browning and subtle sweetness |
| Milk | Adds moisture and richness |
| Mayonnaise | Acts as a fat source, improves texture |
🧠 Pro Tip: The mayo might seem unusual, but it’s just oil + egg in disguise—exactly what traditional doughs require for softness.
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
✦ Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with parchment liners.
✦ Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
✦ Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in:
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Gently stir until just combined. The dough will be thick but sticky. Avoid overmixing—it’ll make the rolls dense.
✦ Step 4: Portion the Dough
Spoon the dough evenly into the muffin tin. Aim to fill each cup about ¾ of the way. You should get around 10–12 rolls.
✦ Step 5: Bake
Place in the center of the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown on top and a toothpick comes out clean.
✦ Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.
5. Expert Tips and Troubleshooting
- Too dry? Add a splash more milk—some flours absorb more than others.
- Too sticky? Lightly oil your spoon or hands before shaping.
- Want a crispier top? Brush with melted butter before baking.
- Low-rise issue? Make sure your baking powder is fresh—check the expiration date.
6. Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
This base recipe is incredibly flexible. Try one of these delicious twists:
| Flavor Variation | Add This |
|---|---|
| Garlic Herb | ½ tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried herbs (oregano, basil) |
| Cheddar Chive | ½ cup shredded cheddar + 1 tbsp chopped chives |
| Sweet Cinnamon | 1 tbsp sugar + ½ tsp cinnamon, serve with honey butter |
| Italian Parmesan | 2 tbsp grated Parmesan + ½ tsp Italian seasoning |
| Honey Butter Glaze | Mix 2 tbsp melted butter + 1 tsp honey and brush on after baking |
7. Serving Suggestions
These rolls shine alongside:
- Soups (tomato basil, chicken noodle, lentil)
- Stews and chili
- Roasted meats (chicken, lamb, pot roast)
- Gravy-heavy dishes like stroganoff or meatballs
- Simple spreads like butter, jam, or cream cheese
- Salad meals (Caesar, Cobb, or pasta salad)
8. Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
🔸 Make Ahead
Mix the dough and store covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Stir before baking.
🔸 After Baking
Let rolls cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or fridge for 5 days.
🔸 To Freeze
Wrap individually in plastic, then foil. Freeze up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 325°F for 8–10 minutes.
9. Nutrition and Dietary Swaps
✦ Per Roll (Estimate)
- Calories: 95
- Carbs: 13g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 3.5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
✦ Make It Healthier
- Use whole wheat flour for fiber
- Replace milk with unsweetened almond milk
- Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for higher protein
- Add ground flaxseeds for nutrients and texture
10. Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Overmixing the dough | Stir just until combined to avoid toughness |
| Skipping the muffin tin | The rolls will flatten—structure is key |
| Using expired baking powder | Always check freshness |
| Not measuring accurately | Use leveled measuring cups and spoons |
| Baking at wrong temperature | Preheat fully and avoid frequent opening of the oven |
11. FAQs
Q: Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose?
A: Yes, but omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe.
Q: What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
A: Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a mix of oil and egg will work.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum included.
Q: Do these taste like biscuits?
A: They’re fluffier and less crumbly than biscuits, more like soft dinner rolls.
Q: Can I double the batch?
A: Absolutely. Just use a second muffin tin or bake in two batches.
12. Final Thoughts: The Best Rolls You’ll Never Knead
This no-yeast dinner roll recipe isn’t just about ease—it’s about transforming a few humble pantry items into something warm, comforting, and entirely satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking a holiday meal, prepping a weeknight dinner, or simply craving the joy of homemade bread without the effort, these rolls will deliver every time. They prove that great baking doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming—it just needs the right recipe.
Now go ahead, preheat that oven—you’ve got this.
13. Printable Recipe Card
🥖 Easy Dinner Rolls Without Yeast
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Servings: 12 rolls
Author: You!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add milk and mayonnaise. Stir until just combined.
- Divide batter into muffin tin (10–12 cups).
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden.
- Cool briefly. Serve warm with butter or jam.
Notes:
- Store leftovers at room temp for 2 days, or freeze for 2 months.
- Try flavor variations like garlic herb, cinnamon sugar, or cheddar chive.
