There’s never been a roll I didn’t like, but sometimes you want one that’s fluffy and light in a way that few recipes can live up to. But, we found a new way of making rolls that comes from Japan and all the roll connoisseurs out there need to try this one.

These rolls turn out soft and lovely with a cloud-like interior and an ever-so-slightly sweet taste. Milk bread recipes are very popular in Japan, where delicate bread is a specialty. This fluffy texture is not only fun to eat, but also holds up well and retains it’s texture even when smooshed (like say applying cold butter or making a little jam sandwich).

Unlike many other roll recipes, this one doesn’t require a starter, but does require active dry yeast and a fair bit of rising time.

To get the best result condensed milk and whole milk is used in this recipe. The combination gives the bread that hint of sweetness. There’s milk in the dough, but it also is brushed on top so that the rolls bake in it.

To start with you’ll heat up the whole milk for 30 seconds in the microwave. This gets mixed with a pinch of sugar and packet of dry active yeast. Basically the whole milk replaces what is water in many bread recipes.

After that bubbles up combine the yeast with the other ingredients and allow to rest for 20 minutes. Then you’ll need to knead the dough. It’s easiest if you use a stand mixer with dough hook on medium-high speed for 8-12 minutes. You can do this by hand but it will take a lot longer.

You’re looking for the dough to pass the windowpane test after being kneaded, which is when the gluten has been developed enough that you can stretch the dough thin and see light through it (without it tearing) when placed in front of a light or window. If the dough breaks when you try this it must be kneaded longer. It’s worth it in the end to get the right texture.

Next you give the dough 1 hour to rise. At this point you divide the dough into 9 equal parts and fold them down onto themselves in a ball shape. Enhance that shape by placing the dough balls on the countertop and gently rolling them with the palm of your hand.

Place the rolls close together in a 9×9″ pan and let them rise a final time for 35-45 minutes. Then bake until golden brown on top, about 25-30 minutes. The final result is light, fluffy, chewy, and sweet in equal parts. These rolls are perfect with butter and jam, but they also make a great side dish for the holidays. We could easily see doubling this recipe for a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. After all, it’s not a feast without some rolls.