Japanese Milk Bread Rolls: The Soft and Fluffy Buns You’ll Fall in Love With!  

There’s nothing quite like fresh, homemade bread rolls to bring a touch of warmth and satisfaction to your meal. These Milk Bread Rolls are a great addition to any dinner table, whether you’re enjoying them as an accompaniment to a savory dish or as a light snack.

The process is straightforward, and the result is a batch of perfectly baked buns that will surely impress everyone who tries them. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful rolls and discover just why they’re such a crowd favorite.

What Are Milk Bread Rolls?

Milk bread rolls trace their origins to Japanese Hokkaido milk bread, known for its signature softness achieved through a tangzhong (water roux) technique. However, variations have popped up worldwide, blending cultural nuances into the classic recipe. The use of milk and butter gives these buns their characteristic richness, while the yeast provides the rise of the buns.

Milk bread rolls are sometimes called “dinner rolls” in the U.S., but their sweet undertones make them equally suited for dessert spreads. In some parts of Asia, they’re paired with dishes like curry, proving their versatility.

Pro Tips for the Best Milk Bread Rolls  

• For consistent results, use a kitchen scale instead of measuring cups. Baking is all about precision.
• Avoid adding too much flour, even if the dough feels sticky for a light texture.
• While this recipe focuses on sweetness, a tiny bit of salt enhances the overall flavor.
• Milk bread rolls are best enjoyed fresh from the oven or gently reheated.

Can I Add Fillings to The Rolls?  

Yes! Try adding sweet fillings like chocolate chips or jam, cheese, and herbs. Stuffing them adds an extra layer of fun.

How Do I Make My Rolls Softer?  

Using whole milk and slightly reducing flour can make the rolls softer. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry them out.

Can I Use Plant-Based Milk and Butter?  

Yes, you can substitute plant-based milk and butter to make them dairy-free. Coconut milk and vegan butter work particularly well.

Can I Freeze the Rolls?  

You can freeze the baked rolls. Let them cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic, and freeze for up to 3 months.

What Can I Serve Milk Bread Rolls With?  

These rolls pair beautifully with soups, stews, roasted meats, or even as a dessert with honey and cream.

How to Store Any Leftovers

To store these milk bread rolls, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, though they may lose some softness.

How to Make Milk Bread Rolls  

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and dry yeast.

Gradually add flour while mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic.

Cover with cling film and let it rise for 2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Transfer the risen dough to a floured work surface and divide it into 18 equal pieces.

Then, shape each piece into a ball.

Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving some space between them.

Cover the balls with a cloth and let rise for 1 hour.

After 45 minutes of rising, brush the rolls with beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust. Preheat your oven to 190°C (374°F).

Place the rolls in the oven and bake for 25 minutes or until they’re golden brown.

Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, whether on their own or with your favorite dish.