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Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe

ByCaroline
Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 42 reviews

If you love soft, buttery bread that melts in your mouth, this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These rolls have that perfect delicate crumb, a golden crust that’s just a little shiny from the egg wash, and of course, a luscious garlic butter glaze that takes them over the top. Trust me, whether you’re serving a family dinner or a special holiday meal, these rolls steal the show every single time.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything listed already, which means no last-minute trips to the store.
  • Perfectly Soft Texture: The long kneading and proper proofing develop that silky dough everyone loves.
  • Flavor Boost with Garlic Butter: Brushing the warm rolls with garlic butter makes a huge difference in taste.
  • Step-by-Step Guidance: Clear instructions avoid common pitfalls and take the guesswork out of homemade rolls.
Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls, soft buttery dinner rolls, garlic dinner rolls recipe, homemade dinner rolls, easy bread rolls - A group of 12 soft, golden brown dinner rolls arranged in a 4 by 3 grid on a wooden board. Each roll has a shiny top coated with a light layer of melted butter and is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, likely parsley, giving a fresh green contrast to the warm golden color. The rolls touch each other closely, showing their soft texture and round shapes. Small bits of herbs are also scattered on the wooden board around the rolls, adding a rustic touch. The wooden board sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe plays its own essential role, coming together to create a tender, flavorful bread. I like to pick high-quality butter and fresh garlic because those touches really elevate the final result.

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls, soft buttery dinner rolls, garlic dinner rolls recipe, homemade dinner rolls, easy bread rolls - Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of warm whole milk, a small white ceramic bowl of granulated sugar, a neat pile of all-purpose flour, one large whole brown egg with a clean shell, a small white ceramic bowl of unsalted butter softened to room temperature, a small white ceramic bowl of salted butter, three fresh garlic cloves beside finely chopped garlic in a small heap, a few sprigs of freshly chopped parsley scattered naturally, a small white ceramic bowl containing a mixture of egg yolk and milk, and a small white ceramic bowl with active dry yeast, all arranged with perfect symmetry and balanced proportions, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Whole milk: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb; make sure it’s warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
  • Active dry or instant yeast: Responsible for that beautiful rise and airy texture; fresh yeast or a good brand makes a difference.
  • Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness that balances the savory garlic butter.
  • All-purpose flour: The foundation for structure; sift it if it’s lumpy to keep your dough smooth.
  • Egg: Brings richness, helps with browning, and improves the rolls’ softness.
  • Salt: Enhances flavor — don’t skip it, but use the right amount to keep balance.
  • Unsalted butter (softened): Gives tenderness and delicious flavor; softened butter incorporates more evenly.
  • Egg yolk mixed with milk (egg wash): Creates that gorgeous golden, shiny crust.
  • Salted butter (for garlic butter): The base of the garlic topping; using salted butter here adds seasoning without extra steps.
  • Garlic cloves: Freshly chopped garlic infuses amazing aroma and flavor.
  • Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and brightens up the rich garlic butter.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of my favorite things about this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re a garlic lover or want to mix in some herbs, these rolls welcome a personal touch.

  • Herb Variations: I’ve tried swapping parsley with rosemary or thyme depending on the season—each one adds a unique twist to the garlic butter.
  • Cheesy Add-ins: Sometimes I press shredded Parmesan or cheddar into the tops before baking for a savory upgrade that’s irresistible.
  • Dietary Modifications: For dairy-free options, coconut oil works well instead of butter, and non-dairy milk keeps it moist.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast Like a Pro

Start by warming your milk to about 110°F—warm to the touch but not hot enough to burn your fingers. Stir in the yeast and a pinch of sugar, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and alive. This step’s crucial because it wakes up the yeast and ensures your dough will rise beautifully.

Step 2: Stir and Shaggy Dough Time

Into your big mixing bowl with the foamy yeast mixture, add the sugar, flour, egg, softened butter, and salt. Mix everything together until a rough, shaggy dough forms—this is where the magic starts. Don’t worry if it looks messy; it’ll come together with kneading.

Step 3: Kneading to Soft Perfection

Turn the dough onto a clean surface. Using your palms, push, stretch, and fold for about 15 minutes. It’ll start sticky but keep going—you don’t want to add extra flour here. What you want is smooth, elastic dough that passes the “window-pane test”: stretch a bit and if it becomes nearly transparent without tearing, you’re good.

Step 4: Rise and Shine

Lightly oil a large bowl and place your kneaded dough inside, turning it so every side is greased. Cover tightly with cling wrap and tuck it in a warm, humid spot for about 90 minutes, or until it doubles in size. I like to place mine in the oven with the light on—it’s the perfect cozy spot!

Step 5: Shape Those Rolls

Punch down the risen dough gently and turn onto a floured surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces, then roll each one into a tight, smooth ball. My trick? Flatten each piece slightly on one palm and twist gently with the other to avoid wrinkles, giving you a picture-perfect roll every time.

Step 6: Second Rise & Egg Wash Glam

Place the rolls on a parchment-lined 9×13″ baking sheet with some space between them. Mix the egg yolk and milk for the egg wash and brush each roll generously. Let them rise again in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes—this puffing up is what gives you soft, fluffy rolls.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Glory

Preheat your oven to 350°F (conventional) while the rolls are doing their second rise. Give them a final brush with the egg wash and bake for 20-22 minutes. When they’re a deep golden brown and smell heavenly, pull them out.

Step 8: Garlic Butter Time

While the rolls bake, melt the salted butter gently on the stove. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for just 1-2 minutes—don’t brown or burn it, or it’ll be bitter. Turn off the heat and stir in fresh parsley. Brush this garlicky goodness over the rolls the moment they come out of the oven. The warmth lets the butter soak in, making each bite dreamy.

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Don’t Rush the Kneading: I used to try shortcuts, but the 15-minute knead really makes the dough silky and strong.
  • Perfect Proofing Spot: Using the oven light on low heat keeps the dough warm and moist, speeding rise without drying out.
  • Garlic Butter Timing: Brush the garlic butter immediately after baking so it absorbs fully and stays flavorful.
  • Egg Wash Twice: Applying egg wash twice helps that beautiful glossy finish that makes these rolls irresistible.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls, soft buttery dinner rolls, garlic dinner rolls recipe, homemade dinner rolls, easy bread rolls - The image shows soft, golden-brown dinner rolls with a shiny, slightly crisp top sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. Each roll is small and round, with a smooth, shiny crust that catches the light. A woman's hand is holding one roll split open to reveal its fluffy, light, and airy inner texture, which is pale cream in color. The rolls sit close together on a wooden board, against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a bit more fresh parsley on top after brushing the garlic butter because it adds a pop of green and freshness. Sometimes, a light dusting of flaky sea salt right before serving adds an extra layer of flavor that makes the buttery rolls sing.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with hearty soups—think creamy tomato basil or chicken and wild rice. I also love bringing them to the table alongside roasted meats like garlic herb chicken or slow-cooked beef brisket, where they’re perfect for mopping up all those juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or dinner parties, I arrange the rolls in a round basket lined with a warm linen cloth, brushing on garlic butter again just before serving. Sometimes I bake them in a pull-apart pattern inside a cast iron skillet for guests to help themselves—a fun, interactive way to enjoy this recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling completely, I store leftover rolls in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature. They stay soft for 2-3 days, though I always recommend enjoying them fresh whenever you can. If the crust gets a bit soft, warming helps.

Freezing

I’ve had great success freezing these rolls after baking and cooling. I wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer bag. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw them overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a few hours.

Reheating

To refresh leftover or thawed rolls, I pop them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, sometimes covering lightly with foil to keep them soft. Then I brush on a little additional melted garlic butter for that freshly baked charm.

FAQs

  1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast in this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe?

    Yes! Instant yeast works wonderfully here and can be mixed directly with the flour and other ingredients without proofing first. If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step with warm milk, but keeping the milk warm still helps the dough rise nicely.

  2. Why are my dinner rolls dense instead of fluffy?

    Dense rolls usually point to under-kneading, insufficient rising time, or overly hot milk that killed the yeast. Make sure to knead until elastic and pass the window-pane test, and allow your dough to fully double during proofing. Keeping milk temperature around 110°F is key.

  3. Can I make the dough ahead and refrigerate it?

    Absolutely! After kneading, cover the dough well and refrigerate overnight. This slow fermentation deepens flavor. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and let it come to room temperature and finish rising before shaping and baking.

  4. What if I don’t have fresh garlic for the butter?

    While fresh garlic is best for vibrant flavor, you can use garlic powder or pre-minced garlic in a pinch. Just use less powder (about ½ tsp) since it’s concentrated, and gently melt it with the butter for a quick substitute.

Final Thoughts

Making this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe has become a go-to for me whenever I want to impress without stress. I love how approachable the process is and how the aroma of garlic butter fills the whole kitchen—it’s like a warm hug in roll form. I really hope you enjoy baking and sharing these with your loved ones as much as I do. Once you try them, I’m sure you’ll find yourself making them again and again!

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Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 42 reviews
  • Author: Caroline
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 dinner rolls
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

These Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are soft, fluffy, and enriched with a delicious garlic butter glaze. Perfect for any dinner table, these homemade rolls combine the comforting flavors of warm, buttery bread with fragrant garlic and parsley, making them an irresistible side dish.

Ingredients

Dinner Rolls:

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

Egg Wash:

  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Garlic Butter:

  • ¼ cup salted butter (57g)
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1-2 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, stir together the warm milk with the yeast until dissolved and slightly foamy.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add sugar, flour, egg, salt, and softened butter to the bowl. Stir until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.
  3. Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and knead using a push-pull motion with your palms for 15 minutes. The dough will start sticky but become smooth and stretchy. Perform the window-pane test by stretching a small piece until it’s almost paper thin without tearing, indicating it is ready.
  4. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a large, lightly oiled bowl, cover with cling wrap, and place in a warm, humid spot. Let it rise until doubled in size, approximately 90 minutes.
  5. Divide Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a clean surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces.
  6. Shape Rolls: Roll each piece into a smooth, tight ball by gently twisting with one palm on a flat surface, ensuring no wrinkles or cracks form.
  7. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a 9×13″ baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the rolls on the sheet evenly spaced.
  8. Apply Egg Wash: Mix the egg yolk and milk for the egg wash. Generously brush each roll with the egg wash using a pastry brush.
  9. Second Rise: Allow the rolls to rise again in a warm spot for 45 minutes until puffy.
  10. Preheat Oven: In the last 20 minutes of rising, preheat the oven to 350F (conventional).
  11. Final Egg Wash: Brush the risen rolls with another coating of the egg wash.
  12. Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls for 22 minutes until they develop a shiny golden crust.
  13. Prepare Garlic Butter: While baking, melt the salted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then turn off the heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley.
  14. Brush Rolls: Remove rolls from the oven and immediately brush them with the garlic butter while hot.
  15. Serve: Let rolls cool slightly, serve warm, and enjoy their soft, buttery garlic flavor.

Notes

  • Use warm milk at about 110F to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Do not add extra flour during kneading; stickiness will decrease as gluten develops.
  • The window-pane test is crucial for ensuring the dough is kneaded enough to get soft rolls.
  • If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in an oven with just the light on to create a warm proofing environment.
  • For even softer rolls, brush with melted butter immediately after baking in addition to the garlic butter.
  • You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
  • Store leftover rolls in an airtight container; warm before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

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