Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe

If warm, soft, and irresistibly fragrant bread is your kind of comfort food, you are in for a treat with this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe. These rolls come out perfectly fluffy with a golden crust, lovingly brushed with a rich garlic butter glaze that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma. Whether it’s a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or just a way to upgrade your everyday bread, these rolls bring that perfect buttery, garlicky touch that everyone will ask for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these irresistible Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe requires simple, kitchen staples that each play an important role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and color. From the creamy milk that activates the yeast to the generous butter that enriches every bite, let’s look at what you’ll gather before baking.

• Whole milk (1 cup, warm, about 110°F): Activates yeast gently and keeps the dough soft and tender.
• Active dry yeast or instant yeast (3 teaspoons): The magic behind your rolls rising into fluffy perfection.
• Sugar (1/3 cup): Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to balance the garlic butter.
• All-purpose flour (3 3/4 cups): Provides structure and chewiness to your dinner rolls.
• Large egg (1): Enhances richness and adds some binding power to the dough.
• Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Balances the flavors and strengthens the dough.
• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, softened): Makes the rolls tender and adds that buttery goodness throughout.
• Egg yolk (1) and milk (1 tablespoon): Combined to create a beautifully shiny egg wash for a golden crust.
• Salted butter (1/4 cup): For melting into the garlic butter glaze to brush on warm rolls.
• Garlic cloves (2-3, finely chopped): The soul of the recipe, infusing each roll with fragrant garlicky warmth.
• Freshly chopped parsley (1-2 tablespoons): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness to the garlic butter glaze.

How to Make Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by stirring the warm whole milk with the active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let it rest for a few minutes until it starts to bubble and foam; this means the yeast is alive and ready to make your rolls rise beautifully.

Step 2: Combine the Dough Ingredients

Add the sugar, flour, egg, salt, and softened unsalted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks messy now – it’s just the beginning of something wonderful!

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead vigorously with a push-pull motion using your palms for about 15 minutes. Initially sticky, the dough will transform into a smooth, stretchy ball that passes the windowpane test—meaning it’s thin enough to see light through without tearing.

Step 4: First Rise

Transfer your dough ball to a large clean bowl that’s been lightly sprayed with oil. Cover tightly with cling wrap, then place in a warm and humid spot to rise until doubled in size—a process that takes about 90 minutes. This step is crucial for that fluffy texture.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once doubled, punch the dough down to release any air bubbles, then turn it onto a clean surface. Divide the dough evenly into 12 pieces. Roll each piece tightly into smooth balls without wrinkles or cracks—this helps them rise evenly and bake beautifully.

Step 6: Arrange and Egg Wash

Line a 9×13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper and place your rolls evenly spaced. Mix the egg yolk with the tablespoon of milk to create an egg wash, then generously brush all the rolls to give them a glossy, golden finish when baked.

Step 7: Second Rise

Let your rolls rise again in a warm spot until they look puffy and soft to the touch, about 30-45 minutes. This final proofing stage amps up the fluffiness and tenderness you want in every bite.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

About 20 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (conventional). This ensures even heat distribution so your rolls cook perfectly.

Step 9: Final Egg Wash

Just before placing the rolls in the oven, brush them once more with egg wash. This extra coating creates that inviting golden brown, shiny crust everyone loves.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-22 minutes until your rolls turn gloriously golden and smell absolutely divine. The crust should be shiny and the rolls should feel soft but springy when gently pressed.

Step 11: Make the Garlic Butter Glaze

While your rolls bake, melt the salted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for just 1-2 minutes until fragrant—take care not to brown the garlic. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Step 12: Brush with Garlic Butter

As soon as your rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with the warm garlic butter mixture. The heat will help the butter soak in, infusing each roll with that perfect savory richness.

Step 13: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Serve these soft, buttery garlic rolls warm for the best texture and flavor—whether fresh from the oven for dinner or alongside your favorite spread.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

While the garlic butter and parsley glaze is perfect on its own, you can sprinkle a little extra freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of flaky sea salt atop the rolls just before serving. This adds a lovely visual freshness and a slight pop of crunch.

Side Dishes

These rolls are incredibly versatile. They pair beautifully with rich soups like creamy tomato bisque or loaded potato chowder. For heartier meals, serve alongside roast chicken, beef stew, or a fresh salad for contrast. Their fluffy, buttery texture complements any savory spread.

Creative Ways to Present

To elevate the presentation, serve the rolls in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin or arrange them on a wooden board surrounded by softened herb butter or dipping oil. You could also try stuffing the rolls with cheese or herbs before baking for an exciting twist your guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store leftover rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and moist, ready to be enjoyed again.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, these dinner rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They stay fresh for up to 3 months, perfect for busy days when you need a quick bread fix.

Reheating

For best results, warm your rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15-20 seconds to regain softness quickly. Rebrushing with a bit of garlic butter after reheating brings back that fresh-baked charm.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast works perfectly in this recipe. You can mix it directly into the flour without proofing in warm milk first, which can help save a bit of time.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley for the garlic butter?

Fresh parsley adds brightness, but if it’s not available, dried parsley or even fresh chives can be a fine substitute. You could also leave it out and rely on the garlic butter to shine.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

This recipe relies heavily on gluten for that beautiful structure and softness, so substituting gluten-free flour will require special blends and adjustments. If you need gluten-free dinner rolls, there are dedicated recipes designed with the right balance.

How do I know when the dough is kneaded enough?

The windowpane test is your best guide here: stretch a small piece of dough gently, and if it stretches thin without breaking, your gluten is well developed, and the dough is ready for rising.

Can I add herbs or cheese inside the rolls?

Absolutely! Mixing herbs like rosemary, thyme, or shredded cheese into the dough adds exciting flavors. Just be careful to not overfill, so your rolls stay neat and rise well.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe is truly one of those kitchen gems that feels like a warm hug in bread form. The combination of tender dough, shiny golden crust, and savory garlic butter makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how these rolls transform any meal into a special occasion. Happy baking and even happier eating!

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