Buttery Pull-Apart Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Light, fluffy, and impossibly tender — perfect for soaking up sauces or spreading with butter.
At a Glance
Loaf Style: Soft enriched rolls
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Total Time: ~24–36 hours
Prep Time: ~30 minutes (plus shaping)
Yield: 12 rolls (standard 9x13" pan)
Hydration: ~65%
Bake Temp: 375°F / 190°C
Baking Vessel: Metal or ceramic rectangular baking dish
Ingredients
100g active sourdough starter
420g bread flour
25g sugar
8g fine sea salt
200g whole milk (cold or room temp)
1 large egg (about 50g)
60g unsalted butter, softened
Optional: melted butter for brushing after baking
Instructions
Mix the Dough
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or by hand), combine the starter, flour, sugar, salt, milk, and egg.
2. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Let rest for 15 minutes.
3. Add softened butter in small pieces and knead until fully incorporated and smooth — about 10–15 minutes.
4. Dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not sticky.
Bulk Fermentation
5. Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover.
6. Let ferment at room temperature (74–78°F / 23–26°C) for 4–6 hours, until puffed but not doubled.
7. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight for 12–24 hours.
Shape and Final Proof
8. Remove dough from fridge and allow to rest at room temperature for 30–45 minutes.
9. Divide dough into 12 equal portions (about 70g each) and shape into tight balls.
10. Arrange rolls evenly in a buttered 9x13” baking dish.
11. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 4–6 hours, or until puffy and nearly doubled.
Bake
12. Preheat oven to 375°F / 190°C.
13. Bake for 22–26 minutes, until golden brown on top and baked through.
14. Immediately brush the hot rolls with melted butter for a glossy, tender finish.
15. Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Visual Cues
Tops should be domed and evenly golden.
Inside: soft, feather-light crumb that pulls apart in layers.
Why This Works
This dough uses just enough enrichment to create buttery, tender rolls without weighing them down. The long, cold ferment enhances flavor, while the pull-apart format creates a sense of warmth and togetherness — ideal for holidays, family dinners, or weeknight comfort.
