Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

If you’re looking for a warm hug in the form of food, then these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are calling your name! Soft, fluffy, and bursting with buttery garlic goodness, they make any meal feel special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, these rolls are perfect for soaking up sauces and adding that extra touch to your table.

There’s something magical about homemade bread. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake brings everyone together. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up! Trust me; once you make these rolls, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easily manageable: With straightforward steps, you’ll have fresh rolls without feeling overwhelmed.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves warm bread, making them a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for meal prep: Bake a batch ahead of time for quick dinners during the week.
• Customizable flavors: Add herbs or cheese to make them uniquely yours.
• Great for sharing: These rolls are perfect for gatherings or potlucks—everyone will want the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need to create these pillowy delights!

For the Dough

• 1 cup whole milk (240g), warm (around 110F)
• 3 teaspoons active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 1/3 cup sugar (70g)
• 3 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (490g)
• 1 large egg
• 1.5 teaspoon salt
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened at room temperature (85g)

For the Egg Wash

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp milk

For the Garlic Butter Topping

• 1/4 cup salted butter (57g)
• 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1-2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways you can put your own spin on these rolls:

• Herb-infused dough: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist.
• Cheesy goodness: Fold in shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar before shaping into rolls.
• Garlic cheese topping: Mix in some grated cheese with the garlic butter topping for an extra flavor kick.
• Sweet rolls: Swap out garlic for cinnamon and sugar to create a sweet version perfect for breakfast!

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, stir together the warm milk with the yeast. This step is crucial because it activates the yeast, which makes your rolls rise beautifully. Then add in all the other ingredients for the dinner rolls to that same bowl. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix until everything comes together into a shaggy dough.

Step 2: Knead It!

Turn out your dough onto a clean surface and knead it using a push-pull motion with your palms for about 15 minutes. Though it might feel sticky at first, give it time; it will transform into a smooth and stretchy dough. Don’t be tempted to add more flour! You’ll know it’s ready when you can stretch it thin without tearing—this is called the window-pane test!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Transfer that lovely dough into a large clean bowl sprayed with oil. Cover it with cling wrap and find a cozy spot for it to rise until it doubles in size—usually around 90 minutes. This step is so important because it helps develop that soft texture we love in dinner rolls.

Step 4: Shape Your Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough gently and turn it out onto a clean surface again. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a tight ball. I like to do this by placing the dough on one palm while twisting gently with my other hand. Make sure each ball is smooth without cracks—that way they bake evenly!

Step 5: Second Rise

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place those beautifully shaped rolls on it with even space between each one. Mix your egg yolk and milk in a small bowl to create an egg wash, then brush this over the tops of your rolls generously.

Let them rise again in a warm spot for about 30-45 minutes until they’re puffy and promising.

Step 6: Bake Them Up

Preheat your oven to 350F during that last stretch of rising time. Once those little gems have puffed up nicely, brush them once more with egg wash before sliding them into the oven. Bake for about 20-22 minutes until they’re golden brown and have that shiny crust we crave.

Step 7: Finish With Garlic Butter

While those rolls cool slightly after baking, melt your salted butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—and mix in parsley before brushing this heavenly garlic butter over your hot rolls.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Now comes the best part! Serve these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls warm at your next meal, and watch them disappear as everyone reaches for seconds—maybe even thirds! Enjoy every fluffy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Making these dinner rolls can be a delightful experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly soft and flavorful every time.

• Use warm milk – The milk should be around 110°F; this temperature is ideal for activating the yeast effectively, leading to a better rise in your rolls.

• Knead thoroughly – Kneading the dough for the full 15 minutes is crucial. This process develops gluten, which gives your rolls that fluffy and airy texture.

• Don’t rush the rising – Allowing the dough to double in size may take up to 90 minutes. This slow rise helps the flavors develop and contributes to a light, tender roll.

• Space them out – When placing the rolls on the baking sheet, give them enough space to expand. They’ll rise and create those beautiful, fluffy edges when baked.

• Brush with garlic butter while hot – Applying the garlic butter right after baking allows it to soak into the warm rolls, enhancing their flavor and keeping them moist.

How to Serve Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

These delightful garlic butter dinner rolls make for an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or chives – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – For a savory twist, sprinkle some grated cheese over the hot rolls before serving for added richness.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad – A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with these rolls, balancing their richness.

• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini add a colorful and nutritious side that complements the fluffy texture of the rolls.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Soft and creamy mashed potatoes are comfort food at its best! Their smoothness pairs beautifully with the garlicky flavor of the dinner rolls.

• Soups or Stews – A bowl of hearty vegetable soup or lentil stew makes an excellent pairing. The rolls are perfect for dipping into warm broth or sauce!

Enjoy your delightful garlic butter dinner rolls as part of a cozy family meal or at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for later, ensuring you have delicious, fluffy rolls ready whenever you need them.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place the rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, you can freeze the rolls for longer storage.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen rolls, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful rolls, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls?

Yes! You can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. However, keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, making it denser.

How do I know when my garlic butter dinner rolls are done baking?

The best way to check is by looking for a shiny golden crust on top. You can also tap the bottom of a roll; if it sounds hollow, they’re perfectly baked!

What makes these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls so special?

These rolls are incredibly soft and fluffy, infused with rich garlic butter flavor that elevates any meal. They’re perfect for special occasions or just everyday dinners!

Can I make these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls without an egg?

Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or use unsweetened applesauce as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls as much as I do! They’re not just a side dish; they bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, these fluffy rolls will be a hit. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your results!