Step 1

Prepare 1 large baking sheet (half-sheet size) or two cookie sheets with rimmed edges by greasing lightly.

Step 2

Warm milk in the microwave until it is just warm to the touch. While milk is heating, place yeast, warm water and 1 tablespoon of the sugar in the bowl of a heavy-duty mixer and allow to “proof” until it is foamy, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Place the remaining sugar, the honey, warm milk and 3 ½ cups flour into the mixer and using the paddle attachment, beat on medium low (setting 3 on a heavy duty mixer) for 2 minutes, scraping down sides before adding the butter, eggs and milk. Beat for another 2 minutes and scrape down again.

Step 4

With the machine running on medium low, add another 2 cups of flour slowly until the dough begins to leave the sides of the bowl. Stop the mixer and let the dough stand 3 minutes.

Step 5

Again on medium low, beat the dough to “knead” it for 5 minutes. Add more flour a tablespoon at a time until it just begins to hold its shape and is not too sticky.

Step 6

Grease a large bowl with vegetable oil and with greased fingers, pull the dough out of the mixer bowl and into the greased bowl, rolling it in the bowl to coat the surface with the oil. Cover with plastic wrap and then lay a cloth towel over and allow to rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until double in size (See Note).

Step 7

Lightly dust a work surface with any remaining flour and turn the dough out onto the surface. Knead the dough, pushing it down to deflate it, just until it comes together into a very smooth ball, about 1 minute. Use a rolling pin, which is lightly dusted with flour to roll the dough into a large rectangle about ½ inch thick. Pull the dough to fold it to make two layers, one inch thick. Roll again until the two layers firmly stick together. Use a sharp knife or dough scraper to cut 2-inch squares and lay them on the prepared baking sheet(s), just barely touching each other.

Step 8

Cover with plastic wrap and a cloth towel again and allow to rise another hour or until double in size.

Step 9

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake the rolls for about 25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remove the pan(s) from the oven and immediately brush the remaining tablespoon of butter all over the tops.