Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting side dish that will steal the show at your next dinner, then these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are just what you need! Picture this: fluffy, pillowy rolls slathered in rich garlic butter, fresh from the oven and perfectly golden. They’re not just delicious; they’re a delightful addition to any meal, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering. Trust me, once you try making these rolls, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

There’s something incredibly satisfying about baking bread at home. The smell that fills your kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible. Plus, these rolls are so simple to whip up; even novice bakers can enjoy the process of creating something so delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have homemade rolls in no time!
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves warm bread—these rolls are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday dinners to weeknight meals, these rolls fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready.
• Irresistibly Flavorful: The combination of garlic and butter adds a rich taste that elevates any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create these delicious little bites!

For the Dinner Rolls:

• 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:

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

Variations

One of the best things about these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls is their versatility! You can customize them to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Cheese: Mix in some shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesy twist!
• Herb-Infused: Try adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for extra flavor.
• Garlic Lovers Delight: For an extra kick, increase the amount of garlic or add roasted garlic for sweetness.
• Sweet Rolls: Swap out some sugar for cinnamon and enjoy them as a sweet treat with breakfast!

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Activate Yeast

In a large bowl, stir together the warm milk with the yeast. This step is crucial because it wakes up the yeast, allowing it to foam and create those lovely bubbles that make your dinner rolls rise beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next, add all the other ingredients for the dinner rolls into that same bowl. Mixing everything together creates a shaggy dough that will soon become something magical!

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn out your shaggy dough onto a clean surface and knead using a push-pull motion with your palms for about 15 minutes. At first, it may feel sticky, but don’t be tempted to add more flour! Just keep kneading until it becomes smooth and stretchy. You’ll know it’s ready when it passes the window-pane test—stretching without tearing.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Transfer your kneaded dough into a large clean bowl sprayed with oil. Cover it with cling wrap and place it in a warm spot. This is where all the magic happens! Let it rise until it’s doubled in size—usually about 90 minutes.

Step 5: Shape Your Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough gently and turn it out onto a clean surface. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into tight balls without any wrinkles or cracks. This helps them hold their shape while baking.

Step 6: Second Rise

Line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper and place your shaped rolls on it with space between each one. Now let them rise again in a warm spot for about 30-45 minutes until they’re puffy.

Step 7: Bake Time!

Preheat your oven to 350F during this final rising stage. Once they’ve puffed up nicely, brush them with an egg wash made from mixing an egg yolk with milk for that beautiful shine.

Step 8: Prepare Garlic Butter

While your rolls are baking for about 20-22 minutes until golden brown, melt some butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add finely chopped garlic and sauté for just 1-2 minutes to infuse that amazing flavor before mixing in freshly chopped parsley.

Step 9: Brush & Serve

As soon as your rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with that delicious garlic butter while they’re still hot. And there you have it—a batch of Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Making these dinner rolls is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll impress everyone with your baking skills!

• Use Warm Milk: Using warm milk (not hot) helps activate the yeast properly, leading to a better rise and fluffier rolls. The ideal temperature is around 110°F.

• Don’t Rush the Kneading: Kneading the dough is essential for developing gluten, which gives the rolls their delightful texture. Be patient; it can take up to 15 minutes, but it’s worth it!

• Perfect Rising Conditions: Finding a warm, humid spot for the dough to rise significantly impacts its fluffiness. If your kitchen is cold, consider placing the bowl near a preheating oven or covering it with a warm towel.

• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven behaves differently, so check your rolls a minute or two before the suggested baking time. You want that gorgeous golden crust without overbaking!

• Brush with Garlic Butter While Hot: Brushing the rolls with garlic butter right after they come out of the oven ensures maximum flavor absorption. It adds richness and enhances that irresistible aroma.

How to Serve Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

These Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply enjoying them as a snack. Here’s how to present this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile with its bright freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan on top before serving for an extra layer of deliciousness that pairs beautifully with garlic.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing brings comfort and warmth to your meal. The tangy tomato flavor complements the buttery rolls perfectly.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing create a refreshing contrast to the soft dinner rolls, making it an ideal side dish for balance.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables seasoned and roasted brings out their natural sweetness and adds color to your plate.
• Grilled Chicken Salad: Tender grilled chicken served over greens creates a light yet satisfying meal that pairs nicely with the richness of garlic butter rolls.

Enjoy these fluffy delights alongside your favorite dishes and watch them disappear from the table in no time!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They should stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• If you live in a particularly humid environment, consider refrigerating them to prolong their freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen rolls to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls.

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

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup) for a vegan option.

What makes these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls so soft?

The combination of warm milk, yeast, and proper kneading creates a fluffy texture. Allowing the dough to rise adequately is also key to achieving that pillowy softness!

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

The rolls should be golden brown on top when baked. You can also tap the bottom of one; if it sounds hollow, it’s perfectly baked!

Can I add herbs or cheese to these dinner rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your garlic butter dinner rolls by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even some grated cheese for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls as much as I do! They’re not just delicious but also bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether served at dinner or enjoyed as a snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and the delightful smell of freshly baked bread!