Jenna’s Five Star Rolls Recipe

Introduction

These truly are the Best 5-Star Dinner Rolls—so easy to make and consistently perfect! Soft, fluffy, and buttery, Jenna’s recipe delivers bakery-quality results every time. They’re the ideal side for any meal, from holiday feasts to weeknight dinners. Try them with Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe or Crockpot Pasta Fagioli Recipe for a complete comfort meal.

Ingredients

These Jenna’s Five Star Rolls come together with simple pantry staples that create soft, buttery dough with a delicate crumb and golden-brown crust.

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour

Timing

Prep Time	20 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: Jenna’s Five Star Rolls are ready in about 20% less time than many traditional roll recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Activate the Yeast

Combine warm water (105–115°F), sugar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your Jenna’s Five Star Rolls will rise properly.

Step 2 — Mix the Dough

Add melted butter, egg, salt, and half the flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined, then gradually add remaining flour until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 3 — Knead the Dough

Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Use the windowpane test: stretch a small piece—it should thin without tearing. This develops gluten for perfect texture in Jenna’s Five Star Rolls.

Step 4 — First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until doubled. For best results, maintain a draft-free environment around 75–80°F.

Step 5 — Shape the Rolls

Punch down risen dough and divide into equal portions. Roll each into smooth balls and place in a greased baking pan, spacing about 1 inch apart. This creates the classic pull-apart structure.

Step 6 — Second Rise

Cover shaped rolls and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffy. They should spring back slowly when gently pressed. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F for proper baking temperature.

Step 7 — Bake to Perfection

Brush rolls with egg wash or melted butter for golden color. Bake at 375°F for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F. The tops should sound hollow when tapped.

Step 8 — Cool and Serve

Transfer Jenna’s Five Star Rolls to a wire rack immediately. Let cool 10–15 minutes before serving—this allows the crumb to set while keeping them warm and fluffy.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	4g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	320mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Whole wheat flour — Adds fiber and nutrients while maintaining the soft texture of Jenna’s Five Star Rolls.
• Greek yogurt — Boosts protein content and creates a wonderfully moist crumb in these rolls.
• Honey or maple syrup — Natural sweeteners that complement the flavor profile of Jenna’s Five Star Rolls beautifully.
• Olive oil — A heart-healthy fat alternative that adds a subtle fruity note to the rolls.
• Almond milk — Perfect dairy-free option that keeps Jenna’s Five Star Rolls light and tender.
• Reduced-sodium baking powder — Cuts salt content without compromising the rise and fluffiness.
• Gluten-free flour blend — Allows those with sensitivities to enjoy Jenna’s Five Star Rolls with similar texture.
• Chia or flax eggs — Excellent vegan binding alternative that adds nutritional benefits to the rolls.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair Jenna’s Five Star Rolls with a hearty beef stew or creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal.
• Serve warm alongside a holiday feast featuring roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and gravy.
• Transform into slider buns for mini pulled pork or barbecue chicken sandwiches.
• Accompany a fresh garden salad and a bowl of soup for a light yet satisfying lunch.
• Offer with softened butter, honey, or flavored compound butter as an appetizer.
• Use for breakfast sandwiches with eggs, cheese, and bacon or sausage.

For an elegant presentation, arrange Jenna’s Five Star Rolls in a cloth-lined basket or on a wooden board, and garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold ingredients straight from the refrigerator. Fix: Bring milk, eggs, and butter to room temperature to ensure proper yeast activation and a better rise.
• Mistake: Killing the yeast with liquid that’s too hot. Fix: Test the liquid temperature on your wrist; it should feel warm, not hot, around 110°F.
• Mistake: Adding too much flour during kneading. Fix: The dough should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky; resist adding extra flour for softer rolls.
• Mistake: Rushing the first rise. Fix: Allow the dough to double in size in a warm, draft-free spot; this develops flavor and texture.
• Mistake: Over-proofing the shaped rolls. Fix: Let them rise until just puffy; if they collapse when poked, they’ve gone too far.
• Mistake: Baking in a cold oven. Fix: Always preheat your oven fully so the rolls get an immediate “oven spring” for maximum lift.
• Mistake: Over-baking, which leads to dry rolls. Fix: Bake until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F for perfect doneness.
• Mistake: Skipping the egg wash or butter brush. Fix: A light coating before baking gives Jenna’s Five Star Rolls their signature golden, glossy crust.
• Mistake: Cutting into the rolls immediately after baking. Fix: Let them rest on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes to allow the steam to set the crumb.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Jenna’s Five Star Rolls in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap cooled rolls individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or airtight container; freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5–10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Always allow Jenna’s Five Star Rolls to cool completely before storing to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making these soft, fluffy Jenna’s Five Star Rolls as much as we do. They’re perfect for any meal. If you try them, please leave a comment and rating! For another great roll option, check out our Parker House Rolls Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more family-friendly recipes.

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FAQs

Can I make Jenna’s Five Star Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After the first rise, punch it down, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking your Jenna’s Five Star Rolls.

Why are my rolls not as soft and fluffy as expected?

This usually happens if the dough is over-proofed or the flour is measured incorrectly. For the best texture in Jenna’s Five Star Rolls, spoon and level your flour and avoid letting the dough rise for too long.

Can I freeze Jenna’s Five Star Rolls after baking?

Absolutely. Allow the baked rolls to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.