Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

The Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and infused with the rich flavor of garlic butter, making them irresistible. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty stew or as part of a festive feast, these rolls will be the star of your table. Their simplicity in preparation and the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Pillowy Softness: These dinner rolls are incredibly soft and fluffy, providing a comforting bite that everyone will love.
• Flavorful Twist: Infused with garlic butter, these rolls pack a delicious punch that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or gatherings; they pair wonderfully with various dishes.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delightful rolls without stress.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and bake when ready, allowing for flexibility in your cooking schedule.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Clean surface for kneading
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for perfect results.
• Clean surface for kneading: A smooth workspace is crucial for developing gluten in the dough.
• Pastry brush: Helps apply egg wash evenly, giving the rolls a beautiful golden finish.

Ingredients

The best, pillowy soft and fluffy homemade garlic butter dinner rolls

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

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, stir together the warm milk with the yeast until well combined.
2. Add all other ingredients for the dinner rolls to this bowl.
3. Mix until they form a shaggy dough.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Turn out the shaggy dough onto a clean surface.
2. Knead with a push-pull motion using your palms for about 15 minutes. The dough may be sticky but will become smooth over time.
3. Test if it’s done by performing the window-pane test; stretch a piece of dough slowly between your fingers.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Transfer kneaded dough to a large clean bowl sprayed with oil.
2. Cover with cling wrap and place in a warm spot to let it rise until it doubles in size, roughly 90 minutes.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

1. Once risen, punch down the dough gently and turn it out onto a clean surface.
2. Divide into 12 equal pieces and roll each into a tight ball without cracks.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper and place rolled balls on it with space between each roll.
2. Prepare an egg wash by mixing egg yolk and milk in a small bowl; brush over each roll generously.
3. Let them rise again in a warm spot for about 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 350F during the last 20 minutes of rising.
2. Once risen again, brush with another coat of egg wash before baking.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-22 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Prepare Garlic Butter

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat; add chopped garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and mix in freshly chopped parsley.

Step 8: Finish Up!

1. Brush hot rolls with garlic butter immediately after pulling them from the oven.
2. Serve warm and enjoy every fluffy bite!

How to Serve Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these rolls can elevate your meal with their delightful flavor and fluffy texture.

With a Side of Soup

• Creamy Tomato Soup – Pair these rolls with a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting combination.
• Chicken Noodle Soup – Enjoy the soft rolls as you dip them into classic chicken noodle soup.

As an Appetizer

• Bruschetta Topping – Use the rolls as a base for bruschetta; add chopped tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze.
• Garlic Herb Cheese Spread – Serve with a spread of garlic herb cheese for an easy and delicious appetizer.

For Family Gatherings

• Holiday Roasts – These rolls complement any roast, from turkey to beef, making them a perfect side during family celebrations.
• Salad Bar – Create a salad bar and let guests enjoy rolls alongside fresh greens and dressings.

How to Perfect Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

To achieve the best results with your Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls, follow these simple tips.

• Use Warm Milk – Ensure the milk is warm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast properly for fluffy rolls.
• Knead Thoroughly – Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic to develop gluten for better texture.
• Don’t Rush Rising Time – Allow enough time for the dough to rise; this step is crucial for achieving light, airy rolls.
• Check Oven Temperature – Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F before baking for even cooking.
• Brush Generously with Garlic Butter – Coating the rolls while they’re hot adds flavor and keeps them moist.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing creates a refreshing contrast to soft rolls.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized complements the buttery flavor of the rolls.
3. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for scooping up with these fluffy dinner rolls.
4. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken skewers seasoned well make for a hearty meal alongside the rolls.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains and veggies create a nutritious pairing.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry – A vibrant vegetable stir-fry adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the soft rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade dinner rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the kneading – Not kneading the dough properly can lead to dense rolls. Knead until smooth and elastic for light, fluffy results.
• Boldly forget the rise times – Rushing the rising process can result in flat rolls. Allow enough time for the dough to double in size during both rises.
• Boldly use cold ingredients – Cold milk or butter can slow yeast activity. Ensure your milk is warm and your butter is softened to room temperature.
• Boldly ignore egg wash – Skipping the egg wash will prevent that beautiful golden crust. Brush the rolls generously before baking for a shiny finish.
• Boldly overcrowd the pan – Placing rolls too close together can hinder their ability to rise. Space them evenly on the baking sheet for maximum puffiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat each roll for about 15-20 seconds on high until warm, but be careful not to dry them out.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm rolls in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls.

What makes Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls so special?

These rolls are soft and fluffy, infused with rich garlic butter flavor, making them perfect for any meal or occasion.

How do I customize Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls?

You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme, cheese, or even spices like paprika for extra flavor.

Can I make these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Shape and bake them fresh when ready.

What should I serve with Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls?

They pair well with soups, salads, or as a side dish for main courses like roast chicken or beef dishes.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are not only irresistibly delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. With simple ingredients and customizable options, you’ll want to whip up a batch every week!