Quick and Easy Yeast Rolls 

Preparation

1. Step 1

   In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast and salt. Use a wooden spoon or stiff spatula to stir until well mixed.

2. Step 2

   Make a well in the center and add the milk, 6 tablespoons of melted butter and the egg. Stir until you have a slightly sticky, shaggy dough.

3. Step 3

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead the dough until it is smooth and slightly tacky, about 7 minutes. Use as little flour on the surface as possible to keep the dough from sticking. Form the dough into a ball.

4. Step 4

   Lightly butter a clean bowl and place the dough ball in the bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

5. Step 5

   Brush a 9-inch round or 8-inch square baking pan with a bit of the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.

6. Step 6

   Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and cut into 12 equal-size pieces (about 2 ounces/60 grams each). Fold the edges of each piece of dough towards the center and pinch the edges together. Place each ball seam-side down, then cup your hand over the dough and roll it into a tight ball. Use a very light dusting of flour, if necessary, to keep the dough from sticking.

7. Step 7

   Place the dough balls in the prepared pan, cover and let rise in a warm place until puffy and touching each other and almost doubled in size, about 45 minutes.

8. Step 8

   With one oven rack set in the center, heat the oven to 350 degrees. Brush the rolls with the remaining butter, remelting it if necessary. Bake until light golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Brush with more melted butter before serving. These rolls will keep for a day or two in an airtight container at room temperature. Rewarm before serving if desired.