In a small bowl or cup, mix together 1/4 cup hot water and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.

In a large mixing bowl or in the bowl of your stand mixer, add 3 1/2 cups flour, yeast mixture, salt, honey, melted butter and remaining 1 cup of hot water.

Knead dough using dough attachment for 4 minutes on low in a stand mixer. If the dough is too sticky, add in the remaining flour in 1 tablespoon increments until dough is dry enough that it doesn't stick to your fingers.

Knead for 11 more minutes on low until dough is smooth, soft and elastic. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for 10-20 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size. The dough will rise faster when the temperature outside is warmer. If you're making this recipe in the wintertime, a good place to let the dough rest is on top of the fridge.

Divide the dough into 8 pieces. Roll dough into football shapes and place on a baking sheet covered in parchment paper. Cover the 8 bolillo bread rolls and let rise for a second time for 45 minutes.