Soft, fluffy, and ready in just 30 minutes, these whole wheat dinner rolls are a game-changer for busy weeknights. With a golden crust and a tender, airy interior, they’re the perfect balance of wholesome and indulgent. The nutty aroma of whole wheat flour pairs beautifully with a hint of sweetness, making them irresistible straight from the oven.
These rolls are not only quick to make but also packed with 4 grams of fiber per serving, offering a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Whether served warm with a pat of butter or alongside your favorite soup, they bring comfort and satisfaction to every bite. Perfect for last-minute dinners or impromptu gatherings, they’re proof that delicious doesn’t have to mean time-consuming.
Ingredients for 30-Minute Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls
- 1⅛ cups warm water (about 110°F, or warm to the touch)
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted butter or coconut oil)
- 2 Tablespoons active dry yeast (yes, it’s 2 Tablespoons!)
- ¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste or substitute with honey or maple syrup)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg (room temperature for best results)
- 3-3½ cups white whole wheat flour (start with 3 cups and add more as needed; can substitute with all-purpose flour if preferred)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large bowl if mixing by hand), combine warm water, vegetable oil, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
- Using a dough hook (or a large wooden spoon if mixing by hand), mix in the salt, egg, and 2 cups of whole wheat flour until combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, until the dough comes together. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. You may need anywhere from 3 to 3½ cups of flour, depending on humidity and other factors.
- Lightly spray your hands with cooking spray (or coat them with a bit of oil) to prevent sticking. Shape the dough into 12 equal-sized balls.
- Place the dough balls on a lightly greased cookie sheet, spacing them evenly. Let them rest and rise for 10 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
These whole wheat dinner rolls are incredibly versatile! Serve them warm with a drizzle of honey butter (mix 2 tablespoons softened butter with 1 tablespoon honey) for a sweet touch. For a savory option, try a garlic herb butter (combine 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 teaspoon dried herbs like parsley or thyme). They’re also fantastic dipped in marinara sauce or paired with a hearty soup or stew.
Quick Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes. For a quick fix, microwave them for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it—they can dry out quickly!
Time-Saving Tricks for Busy Bakers
If you’re short on time, skip the stand mixer and mix the dough by hand—it’s a great arm workout! To speed up the rising process, place the shaped dough balls in a warm spot (like near a preheating oven) for the 10-minute rest. You can also prep the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight, letting it come to room temperature before baking.
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
Want to switch things up? Try adding 1/2 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) to the dough for a cheesy twist. For a nutty flavor, mix in 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (like sunflower or flaxseed). If you prefer a sweeter roll, increase the sugar to 1/3 cup and add a sprinkle of cinnamon before baking.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use regular whole wheat flour? Yes, but the rolls may be denser. White whole wheat flour is lighter, so it’s ideal for a softer texture. What if my dough is too sticky? Add flour 1 tablespoon at a time until it’s manageable, but avoid over-flouring—it can make the rolls tough. Can I freeze these rolls? Absolutely! Freeze baked rolls in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat as needed.
30 Minute Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
- 1⅛ cups warm water (see note below)
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 2 Tablespoons active dry yeast (yes, it really is 2 Tbls)
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 3-3½ cups white whole wheat flour (more or less; see instructions below)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, oil, yeast, and sugar; let rest for 5-10 minutes or until frothy and bubbly (you can also make this recipe without a stand mixer – just use a big bowl, a large wooden spoon, and all your arm strength).
- With a dough hook, mix in salt, egg and 2 cups of wheat flour until combined. Then add remaining flour – 1/2 cup at a time (dough will be sticky). Sometimes I need the full 3 ½ cups, sometimes I need less, and sometimes I need even more.
- Spray your hands with cooking spray and shape the dough into 12 balls.
- After shaped, place on lightly greased cookie sheet and let rest and rise for at least 10 minutes.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until tops are lightly golden.