Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe
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Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe
Garlic butter dinner rolls are soft, fluffy bread rolls made with all-purpose flour, yeast, warm milk, and topped with a buttery garlic glaze. Ready in about 2 hours, they’re the perfect addition to any meal, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. This recipe makes 12-15 rolls, and each one is deliciously golden and brushed with garlic butter for an irresistible aroma and flavor.
Last Thanksgiving, my kids Clara and Noah couldn’t stop sneaking these rolls from the table before dinner started. They’re now a staple for every family celebration, and I’m thrilled to share the recipe with you!
Table of Contents
- Why are Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls perfect?
- What ingredients do you need for Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls?
- How do you make Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls step by step?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
- Are there easy ingredient swaps for this recipe?
- How do you store, freeze, and reheat Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls?
- Tips for making the perfect Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Why are Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls perfect?
Garlic butter dinner rolls are perfect because they combine a soft, pillowy texture with a fragrant garlic butter glaze that makes every bite heavenly. This recipe is a go-to for holidays and weeknight dinners alike.
- Flavor-packed glaze: The garlic butter topping is flavorful without being overpowering, making these rolls great for pairing with almost any dish.
- Soft, fluffy texture: The dough is kneaded and allowed to rise, ensuring the rolls are light and tender.
- Easy to make: Even beginner bakers can follow this recipe with success. The steps are straightforward, and the results are consistent.
- Versatile companion: These rolls complement everything from soups and stews to holiday turkey or ham.
What ingredients do you need for Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls?
The key ingredients for garlic butter dinner rolls include all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and garlic butter glaze. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 1/4 cup warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for garlic butter glaze)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instant yeast speeds up the rising process, while the combination of warm milk and sugar activates the yeast for that perfect rise. The melted butter ensures the dough stays moist, and the garlic butter glaze enhances the flavor beautifully.
How do you make Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls step by step?
Making garlic butter dinner rolls involves preparing the dough, allowing it to rise, and baking before finishing with a garlic butter glaze. Follow these simple steps for success.
Step 1 — Activate the yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-7 minutes, until the mixture becomes foamy.
Step 2 — Mix the dough
Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and 3 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough starts to form.
You might also enjoy our the best creamy garlic butter.
Step 3 — Add remaining flour
Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough is soft and slightly sticky but pulls away from the bowl.
Step 4 — Knead the dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 5 — Let the dough rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, until it doubles in size.
Step 6 — Shape the rolls
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12-15 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between them.
Step 7 — Proof the dough
Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30-40 minutes, until they double in size.
For more ideas, check out our the best creamy garlic butter.
Step 8 — Bake the rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Step 9 — Make the garlic butter glaze
While the rolls bake, melt the remaining butter in a small pan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in parsley if desired.
Step 10 — Glaze the rolls
As soon as the rolls are out of the oven, brush the garlic butter glaze generously over the tops. Serve warm and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature and rise before baking.
Can I substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast?
Yes, but you’ll need to proof it in warm water with sugar for about 10 minutes before using, as active dry yeast requires activation.
Looking for something similar? Try our baked lemon garlic butter salmon.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, shape the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them before baking. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag. Thaw and proof before baking as directed.
How do I ensure my yeast activates properly?
Make sure the milk and water are warm, around 110°F (43°C). Too hot or too cold liquid can prevent the yeast from activating.
How do I reheat leftover rolls?
Wrap the rolls in aluminum foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. They’ll taste freshly baked!
Are there easy ingredient swaps for this recipe?
If you’re low on certain ingredients, there are alternatives that work well for this recipe. Here are a few suggestions:
- Milk: Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. It may slightly alter the flavor but still creates a soft dough.
- Unsalted butter: Swap with coconut oil or olive oil, but note the flavor will differ slightly.
- Fresh parsley: Dried parsley works, but reduce the amount by half to avoid overpowering the rolls.
How do you store, freeze, and reheat Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls?
Storing and reheating your garlic butter dinner rolls is easy, making them great for meal prep or leftovers. Follow these simple tips for the best results.
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze in a resealable bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, microwave one roll at a time for 15-20 seconds.
Tips for making the perfect Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Here are a few tips to ensure the best results:
- Perfect water temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure your milk and water reach 110°F (43°C) to properly activate the yeast.
- Don’t skip kneading: Kneading develops the gluten in the dough, which is key for soft and elastic rolls.
- Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast package. Old yeast may not activate, impacting the rise of your rolls.
- Customize toppings: Add sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to the top of the rolls before baking for extra flavor.
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