If you’re looking for a bread recipe that’s soft, pillowy, and downright addictive, you’re going to love this one. My Fluffy Potato Rolls Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it strikes the perfect balance between tender crumb and rich flavor. These rolls are incredibly easy to make, even if you’ve never worked with yeast before, and the addition of potato flakes adds a subtle moisture that keeps them soft for days. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them over and over again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Soft Texture: The potato flakes keep these rolls moist and fluffy far longer than traditional rolls.
- Easy for Beginners: Using instant yeast makes the process quicker and more foolproof, so you don’t have to be a pro.
- Deliciously Buttery: A touch of butter in the dough and on top after baking gives them a rich, irresistible finish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these rolls fit right in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together beautifully to create the fluffiest potato rolls you’ll ever bite into. Something I learned early on: the potato flakes are what really set this apart, giving the dough extra tenderness and moisture.

- All-purpose flour: Start with 3 cups but be ready to add a bit up to 3 ½ cups depending on your dough’s consistency; it should be soft but not sticky.
- Instant yeast (RapidRise): Makes rising much faster and easier—no need to wait as long as with active dry yeast.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough to feed the yeast and add a hint of sweetness.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Milk: Adds richness; you can use regular, low-fat, or nonfat depending on your preference.
- Water: Works with milk to hydrate the dough. Heat it to the perfect warm temperature so the yeast wakes up happily.
- Unsalted butter: In the dough and for brushing on top; it makes a huge difference in tenderness and taste.
- Potato flakes: The secret ingredient that keeps these rolls extra soft and moist.
- Egg: Adds richness and strengthens the dough’s structure for a beautiful rise.
Variations
I love making these rolls as is, but don’t hesitate to tailor the recipe to your taste or dietary needs. It’s incredibly forgiving and versatile.
- Herb-infused rolls: I sometimes add fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the dough for an herby twist that pairs beautifully with savory meals.
- Gluten-free adaptation: While a bit more challenging, substituting with a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads can yield decent results if you’re careful with moisture.
- Dairy-free version: Swap milk and butter with almond milk and coconut oil or vegan butter for a delicious allergy-friendly option.
- Mini Rolls: Rolling into smaller portions makes perfect little slider buns that my family goes crazy for during game days.
How to Make Fluffy Potato Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Wake Up the Yeast and Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by combining 1 cup of flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt right in your stand mixer bowl with the paddle attachment. This dry mix is your foundation, and making sure the salt and yeast don’t directly touch before mixing helps them do their job without interference.
Step 2: Warm Up Your Milk, Water, and Butter with Potato Flakes
Heat your milk, water, and butter in a microwave-safe measuring cup until between 120° and 130°F. I use an instant-read thermometer to get it just right – warm, but not hot enough to kill the yeast. Stir in the potato flakes until they soften. This step tricks your dough into staying moist and fluffy after baking.
Step 3: Mix Dough and Add Egg
Pour the liquid potato mixture into the dry ingredients and switch to your dough hook. Mix on medium speed for about a minute. Then add the egg and one more cup of flour, mixing for another minute. Gradually add more flour in thirds until your dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball. This takes patience—if your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but don’t overdo it.
Step 4: Knead and Rest the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and dust the top lightly with flour. Knead for 4 to 6 minutes until the dough holds together well and springs back when you poke it with two fingers. This elasticity tells you the gluten is developing nicely. Then cover it and let it rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten before shaping.
Step 5: Shape and Let Rise
Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized pieces and roll each into a smooth ball. Place them in a greased 9×13-inch pan, spacing them evenly. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and set it somewhere warm to rise. Depending on your kitchen’s temperature, it can take from 30 minutes up to an hour, but you want the rolls to double in size.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Perfect
Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake your rolls for 20 to 28 minutes. About halfway through, I like to carefully rotate the pan so the rolls brown evenly. When they’re golden on top and smell heavenly, they’re done. A quick brush of melted butter right out of the oven seals in the softness and gives a beautiful sheen.
Pro Tips for Making Fluffy Potato Rolls Recipe
- Watch Your Liquid Temperature: I learned heating milk and water too hot kills the yeast—keep it warm and cozy instead.
- Don’t Over-Flour the Dough: It’s tempting, but a slightly sticky dough yields lighter rolls.
- Use Instant Yeast for Speed: Instant yeast cuts down rise time drastically—but if you use active dry yeast, just proof it first.
- Rotate Your Pan During Baking: This little step ensures even browning so no roll ends up pale or burnt.
How to Serve Fluffy Potato Rolls Recipe

Garnishes
I usually brush the rolls with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven—it adds a gorgeous gloss and extra richness. Sometimes a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top takes them to another level, especially for a holiday table.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair beautifully with everything from rich stews to light salads. My favorite combo is with a creamy chicken pot pie or a fresh garden salad with vinaigrette. They’re also perfect alongside roasted veggies or a hearty bowl of soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to arrange the rolls in a circular wreath shape and brush them with garlic butter for a festive twist. You can also stuff them with cheese or herbs before baking to surprise guests. Mini versions served in cupcake liners make adorable party bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay soft and fresh thanks to the potato flakes. Wrapping in a lightweight kitchen towel inside the container also keeps them from drying out.
Freezing
Freezing works like a charm for these rolls. After baking and cooling completely, I wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer bag. When I want fresh rolls again, I thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temp for a few hours.
Reheating
To reheat, I warm the rolls in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes to refresh their softness and crisp the exterior slightly. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds, but watch they don’t get tough.
FAQs
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Can I use regular potatoes instead of potato flakes in the Fluffy Potato Rolls Recipe?
You can, but it requires cooking and mashing the potatoes first, then adjusting the liquid in the dough to account for the moisture added by the potatoes. Potato flakes are used here because they’re quick, convenient, and help keep the dough texture consistent.
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How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should roughly double in size during rising. It will look puffier and feel soft to the touch. A helpful trick is to gently press two fingers into the dough; if the indent remains or only slightly springs back, it’s ready.
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Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! I often make these rolls by hand when I’m without a mixer. Just combine all ingredients in a large bowl and knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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What makes these rolls “fluffy” compared to regular rolls?
The addition of potato flakes and the careful hydration of the dough create a softer crumb with more moisture, which results in rolls that stay fluffy and tender longer than typical bread rolls.
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Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes! You can do the initial mixing and kneading, then refrigerate the dough overnight. Bring it back to room temperature before dividing, shaping, and allowing it to rise before baking.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Fluffy Potato Rolls Recipe turns out every time. The texture is so irresistibly soft, and the flavor is buttery with a subtle hint of sweetness. Over the years, I’ve found it’s the perfect roll to serve any time—from special occasions to casual dinners. I encourage you to try these; once you master the process, they’ll become your go-to rolls, guaranteed to impress family and friends. Plus, there’s something truly satisfying about the smell of fresh rolls baking in your kitchen. Happy baking, friend!
Print
Fluffy Potato Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fluffy Potato Rolls are soft, tender, and perfect for any meal. Made with instant yeast and potato flakes, these dinner rolls are easy to prepare and have a delightful texture. They are perfect for beginners and anyone looking for a reliable, fluffy homemade roll recipe.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups (372g) all-purpose flour (up to 3 1/2 cups as needed)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) Instant Yeast (RapidRise)
- 1 tablespoon (13g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup potato flakes
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup (177ml) milk (regular, low, or nonfat)
- ½ cup (118ml) water
- 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 1 cup flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt thoroughly.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a microwave-safe measuring cup, combine water, milk, and butter. Heat until the mixture reaches between 120°-130°F (about 1 minute in the microwave). Stir in the potato flakes to hydrate.
- Combine and Mix Dough: Pour the warm liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and switch to the dough hook attachment. Mix on medium speed for 1 minute. Add the egg and 1 cup more flour, mixing another minute. Then add about a third cup of flour and continue mixing until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball. Add up to 1/4 cup more flour if needed to reach the right consistency.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, dust with flour, and knead by hand for 4-6 minutes or until the dough comes together well and bounces back when pressed with two fingers. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Shape Rolls and Proof: Divide the rested dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover the pan and let the rolls rise until doubled in size, about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20-28 minutes until golden brown, rotating the pan halfway through for even browning.
- Finish and Serve: Brush hot rolls with melted butter if desired. Enjoy fresh within 2 days for best taste and softness.
Notes
- These potato rolls are incredibly soft and fluffy, making them the perfect dinner rolls.
- Using instant yeast and potato flakes makes this recipe beginner-friendly and quick.
- Monitor the dough texture carefully; it should be soft but slightly sticky, adding flour gradually as needed.
- Rolling the dough pieces evenly ensures consistent baking throughout.
- Brushing with melted butter after baking adds flavor and keeps the rolls moist.
- Store rolls in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 166 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 211 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 27 mg

