In a mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk with yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Give it a good whisk, then cover and let it sit for 5 minutes to let the yeast activate. A large bowl and a sturdy spoon can also work if you lack a stand mixer.

Next, add the remaining sugar, egg, softened butter, salt, and 1 cup of flour to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook or paddle attachment, mix on low for about half a minute. Scrape down the bowl and add in the remaining flour, mixing on medium until the dough separates from the bowl—which should take about 2 minutes. If the dough becomes too sticky, incorporate flour gradually—1 tablespoon at a time—until you achieve a soft, manageable consistency.

Continue kneading in the mixer for another 5 minutes or, if you prefer, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface by hand for 5 minutes. If it feels sticky, dust it lightly with more flour, but take care not to overdo it. The dough should remain soft and tacky. Gently poke it; if it springs back gradually, you’re good to go!

Lightly coat a large bowl with oil and set the dough inside, making sure to turn it to cover with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel, then allow it to rise in a warm location until it has doubled in bulk; this should take about 1 to 2 hours.

Prepare a greased 9×13-inch pan or two 9-inch pans, or a cast iron skillet. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to expel air, then divide the dough into 14 to 16 equal portions. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and cluster them closely in the pan.

Cover the shaped rolls with foil or a towel and let them rise again until they are puffy; this will take about 1 hour. In the meantime, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), placing the rack in a lower position to prevent over-browning of the tops.

Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes or until they achieve a nice golden color. Make sure to rotate the pan halfway through baking. If the tops begin to brown too rapidly, cover them loosely with foil. Once finished, brush the rolls with the honey butter mixture if you choose, and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.