Irresistibly Soft Garlic Butter Dinner Roll

There’s something truly magical about the smell of freshly baked bread. It evokes a sense of warmth and comfort that feels like a hug from the inside out. Picture this: a chilly evening, the family gathered around the dinner table, and a basket of golden, fluffy rolls taking center stage. These Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are more than a recipe; they’re a tradition waiting to happen.

They’re the kind of bread that turns a simple meal into an event. Whether served alongside a hearty soup, a Sunday roast, or even just as a snack with tea, these rolls have a way of stealing the show. Soft, pillowy, and infused with the irresistible flavors of garlic and butter, they’re a little slice of indulgence you can easily make at home. Baking these rolls isn’t just about the end product—it’s about the journey. From the satisfying kneading of the dough to the tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen, every step is a joy. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to become a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Perfect for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re an experienced baker or just dipping your toes into bread-making, this recipe is straightforward and approachable. No fancy equipment is required—just your hands, a bit of patience, and a love for homemade goodness.

2. Irresistible Texture: These dinner rolls are everything a roll should be—soft, light, and fluffy with a golden crust brushed with garlic butter that adds a savory finish.

3. Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Pair them with soups, salads, or hearty mains—they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Dough:

• 1 cup whole milk (240g), warm (around 110°F)
• 3 teaspoons active dry yeast or instant yeast
• ⅓ cup sugar (70g)
• 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (490g)
• 1 large egg
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened at room temperature (85g)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk

For the Garlic Butter:

• ¼ cup salted butter (57g)
• 2–3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1–2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley’

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by warming the milk to about 110°F. Think of it as baby’s bath water—comfortably warm but not hot. Pour the milk into a large bowl and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Add a pinch of sugar to help the yeast wake up, stir gently, and let it sit for 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks foamy and smells slightly sweet—like the beginnings of magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add the sugar, flour, egg, salt, and softened butter to the bowl with the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough comes together in a rough, shaggy ball. Don’t worry if it looks messy at this stage; it’s all part of the process.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Roll up your sleeves and knead for about 15 minutes. This is your chance to infuse the dough with love (and strength). It will start rough but transform into a smooth, elastic ball. A good test? Stretch a small piece of dough—if it forms a thin, see-through “windowpane” without tearing, you’re there!

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This is the perfect time to catch up on your favorite show or prep the rest of your meal.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough gently to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath and pinching them at the bottom.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for expansion. Cover and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes. They should look plump and soft, like little clouds.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Egg Wash

While the rolls rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Whisk the egg yolk and milk together in a small bowl to create an egg wash.

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Brush the tops of the risen rolls with the egg wash. Bake them for 20–22 minutes, or until they’re a deep, golden brown. Your kitchen will smell like heaven at this point.

Step 9: Make the Garlic Butter

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the parsley for a fresh, herby kick.

Step 10: Brush and Serve

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, generously brush them with the warm garlic butter. Watch as it melts into the crust, infusing the rolls with an extra layer of flavor. Serve them warm, and watch them vanish before your eyes!

Helpful Tips:

• Time Your Proofing: If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough near a warm oven or in a sunny spot to encourage rising.
• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: It’s the secret to that beautiful, glossy finish that makes these rolls bakery-worthy.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Shape and bake the rolls the next day for fresh bread with minimal effort.

Details:

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: About 3 hours (including proofing)
• Yield: 12 dinner rolls
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes:

• If you’re short on time, instant yeast can shave a bit off your proofing time.
• Leftovers? These rolls freeze beautifully! Just reheat them in the oven for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll):

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 9g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
While this recipe is designed for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly.

How do I store leftover rolls?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Related Recipes:

If you loved these Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls, try these next:

• Chicken Teriyaki Noodles

Conclusion:

There’s nothing quite like homemade bread, and these Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are proof that anyone can bake something extraordinary. With their soft, pillowy texture and the rich flavors of garlic and butter, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them at a family feast or enjoying them solo with a cup of tea, these rolls promise pure comfort and joy.

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