Introduction to Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to the warm, fluffy embrace of homemade dinner rolls. Making them from scratch transforms any meal into a special occasion. Why settle for store-bought when you can create these delightful soft rolls in the comfort of your kitchen?
Why Homemade Dinner Rolls Are a Game Changer
The texture and flavor of homemade rolls simply can’t be replicated. Imagine biting into a warm, golden roll brushed with rich garlic butter. It’s a culinary experience that elevates your meal and impresses your guests—ideal for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Moreover, the process of kneading the dough is incredibly therapeutic, offering a sense of accomplishment that's hard to match. According to the Bread Bakers Guild of America, making bread at home can even be a stress-reliever. Plus, with my easy garlic butter dinner rolls recipe, you’ll get to enjoy them fresh out of the oven within just a few hours.
From the heavenly aroma wafting through your home to the satisfying taste that wraps around your taste buds, every moment spent making these rolls is worthwhile. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will leave you craving more!
Ingredients for Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
When you're ready to bake the easiest garlic butter dinner rolls, gather these essential ingredients to create delicious, fluffy rolls that will be the highlight of your dinner table.
Essential ingredients for the dough
- Whole milk: 1 cup (240g), warmed to around 110°F. The warmth activates the yeast for a great rise!
- Active dry or instant yeast: 3 teaspoons. This is your leavening magic.
- Sugar: ⅓ cup (70g). Not only does it sweeten, but it also fuels the yeast.
- All-purpose flour: 3 ¾ cups (490g) gives structure to your rolls.
- Large egg: For richness and binding.
- Salt: 1.5 teaspoons to bring out the flavors.
- Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons (85g), softened. It adds that lovely buttery texture.
Making the garlic butter
To top your rolls, you'll need a simple garlic butter mix:
- Salted butter: ¼ cup (57g), melted for spreading.
- Garlic cloves: 2-3, finely chopped. Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic kick.
- Fresh parsley: 1-2 tablespoons, chopped, for a pop of color and flavor.
With just these easy ingredients, your dinner rolls will turn out irresistibly scrumptious! Don’t forget to check out this guide for more tips on baking perfect rolls!
Step-by-step Preparation for Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Making easy garlic butter dinner rolls can seem daunting, but breaking it down into simple steps makes the process not only manageable but also enjoyable. Let’s get started with this delightful recipe that will elevate any dinner!
Activate the yeast
First things first—let’s wake up that yeast! In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (around 110°F) with 3 teaspoons of active dry yeast. It’s important that the milk is warm, not hot, as hot temperatures can kill the yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Combine ingredients to form the dough
Now, add the other ingredients—⅓ cup of sugar, 3 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 large egg, 1.5 teaspoons of salt, and 6 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter—into the bowl with your yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix until all the ingredients are combined and you get a shaggy dough.
Knead the dough to perfection
Transfer the dough onto a clean, floured surface and start kneading! Use a push-pull motion with your palms for about 15 minutes. The dough will feel sticky at first, but as you knead, it will become smooth and elastic. Remember the window-pane test: stretch a piece of dough; when it becomes thin without ripping, you know it’s ready.
First rise – let it double
Place the dough in a large, lightly oiled bowl and cover it with cling wrap. Find a warm, humid spot—perhaps your oven turned off but still warm—and let the dough rise until it has doubled in size—about 90 minutes. During this time, you can savor that mouth-watering aroma of garlic butter rolls to come!
Shape the rolls
Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and turn it onto a floured surface. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. To shape, roll each piece into a tight ball. Gently tuck the edges under to create a smooth top. This step is crucial for that lovely shape!
Second rise – patience is key
Place the shaped rolls onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between them. Cover with a cloth or lightly greased plastic wrap, and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Bake to golden perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F during the last 20 minutes of the second rise. Just before they go in, brush the rolls with an egg wash made from mixing an egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of milk. Bake those beauties for 20-22 minutes until they’re golden brown on top.
Make the garlic butter topping
While the rolls bake, melt ¼ cup of salted butter in a saucepan and sauté 2-3 finely chopped garlic cloves for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Don’t forget to stir in some fresh parsley—you’ll definitely want this flavor enhancer!
Brush and serve while warm
As soon as your golden rolls come out of the oven, brush them with the warm garlic butter for that irresistible flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy these easy garlic butter dinner rolls while they’re warm and fluffy—perfect for sharing!
For more expert tips on dough management, feel free to check out sources like King Arthur Baking for additional insights. Happy baking!
Variations on Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Herb-infused Garlic Butter Rolls
Want to elevate your easy garlic butter dinner rolls? Incorporate herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano directly into the dough or the garlic butter! Simply mix 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite dried herbs into the dry ingredients before you start kneading. This not only enhances the flavor profile but adds a beautiful aroma to your rolls. Imagine biting into a soft roll bursting with savory goodness!
Cheese-stuffed Garlic Butter Rolls
If you’re craving something cheesy, try making cheese-stuffed garlic butter rolls. Before shaping the dough into balls, place a small cube of cheese—like mozzarella or cheddar—inside each piece. Seal them well, and then proceed with the usual steps. As the rolls bake, the cheese will melt into gooey perfection, creating a delightful surprise for your guests. Pair these with a fresh salad for a complete meal!
For more tips on variations, check out this article on roll fillings.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Tips for Perfect Texture
To achieve perfectly soft and fluffy dinner rolls, ensure your dough is well-kneaded. It should pass the famous window-pane test, becoming smooth and elastic with time. Also, keep the dough covered during its rises to maintain moisture—this is crucial for that pillowy texture you crave.
Notes on Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have whole milk? Feel free to substitute it with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. For the garlic butter, fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you're in a pinch, garlic powder works too. And rather than using fresh parsley, you can substitute with dried herbs for a quick alternative.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Pairing with Main Dishes
These easy garlic butter dinner rolls are incredibly versatile and can elevate any meal! Serve them alongside roasted chicken, Turkey Bacon, or even vegetarian pasta dishes for a delightful contrast of flavors. They complement hearty beef stews beautifully, soaking up all the rich, savory sauce. For a lighter touch, pair with a fresh salad and grilled vegetables.
Creative Serving Ideas
Get creative with your serving! Slice the rolls in half and load them with your favorite fillings, like chicken ham or roasted veggies, for a delicious sandwich. You can also serve them as an appetizer by preparing a warm dip—think spinach artichoke or cheesy garlic. Need a party snack? Make slider-sized rolls and fill them with deli meats for a crowd-pleasing finger food. The possibilities are endless!
Time Breakdown for Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Preparation Time
Getting started with these easy garlic butter dinner rolls is a breeze! You'll need about 30 minutes to gather your ingredients, mix everything together, and get your dough kneading.
Rising Time
Patience is key when it comes to achieving those buttery, fluffy rolls. Allow the dough to rise for approximately 90 minutes in a warm spot until it doubles in size. Don't rush this step—it's where the magic happens!
Baking Time
Once your rolls have puffed up, you'll only need about 20-22 minutes to bake them to golden perfection in a preheated oven at 350°F. Just enough time to set the table and get the butter ready!
Total Time
In total, you're looking at around 3+ hours, including the rising times. While this may sound lengthy, most of it is hands-off, making it totally worth the wait for these delightful rolls that pair perfectly with any meal.
Nutritional Facts for Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Calories
Each of the easy garlic butter dinner rolls contains approximately 180 calories, making them a delightful addition to any meal without overindulging.
Carbohydrates
With about 30 grams of carbohydrates per roll, these soft, fluffy bites will give you the energy to power through your evening.
Fats
These dinner rolls also boast around 7 grams of fat, thanks to the buttery goodness that makes them irresistible. Perfect for pairing with a hearty soup or salad!
FAQs about Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Why did my rolls not rise?
If your easy garlic butter dinner rolls didn’t rise, it could be due to a few reasons. One common culprit is yeast that hasn’t been activated properly. Always ensure your liquid is warm, about 110°F (43°C), not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Additionally, make sure the yeast is within its expiration date for best results. Proper proofing time is also key; if your dough is in a chilly environment, it might need more time to rise.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead and store it in the fridge. After kneading, place it in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it chill. This can enhance the flavor, too. Just remember to let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and allowing it to rise again.
How do I store leftover dinner rolls?
To keep your easy garlic butter dinner rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap each roll in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw and warm them in the oven for that fresh-baked taste!
Conclusion on Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Enjoy the homemade experience!
Making these easy garlic butter dinner rolls at home brings a wonderful sense of accomplishment. Their pillowy softness and savory flavor make them a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you're sharing with friends or enjoying them solo, each bite is pure comfort. Happy baking!
Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Equipment
- large bowl
- clean surface
- baking sheet
- pastry brush
- saucepan
- clinging wrap
Ingredients
Dinner rolls
- 1 cup whole milk warm (around 110F)
- 3 teaspoons active dry yeast or instant yeast
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 3 ¾ cup all purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter softened at room temperature
- 1 egg yolk egg wash
- 1 tablespoon milk egg wash
Garlic butter
- ¼ cup salted butter
- 2-3 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1-2 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, stir together the warm milk with the yeast.
- Add all the other ingredients for the dinner rolls to the same bowl.
- Use a large bowl to stir together the ingredients until they form a shaggy dough.
- Turn out onto a clean surface, and knead with a push-pull motion using your palms for 15 minutes.
- Transfer the dough to a large clean bowl sprayed with a little oil. Cover with cling wrap and place in a warm, humid spot to let the dough rise until it at least doubles in size.
- Once risen, punch the dough and turn it out onto a clean surface. Divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a tight, smooth ball.
- Line a 9x13" baking sheet with parchment paper, and place the rolls on the sheet with even space between them.
- Mix the egg yolk and milk in a small bowl to make the egg wash, and use a pastry brush to generously brush the rolls with the egg wash.
- Allow the rolls to rise a second time in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes until they are puffy.
- In the last 20 minutes, preheat the oven to 350F (conventional).
- Once the rolls are risen, brush them with another generous coating of the egg wash.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes until the rolls have a beautiful shiny golden crust on them.
- To make the garlic butter, melt the butter in a saucepan. Add the garlic and saute for 1-2 minutes. Then turn off the heat and mix in the parsley.
- Brush the rolls with garlic butter while they're still hot.
- Serve & enjoy!
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