Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe
If you’re looking for a new family favorite, these Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are about to steal the show! Imagine pulling apart a pillowy-soft roll, warm from the oven, with buttery garlic aroma filling your kitchen. Each bite is the perfect combination of delicately sweet, rich, and savory flavors, thanks to simple and wholesome ingredients. These rolls are every bit as dreamy as they sound—ideal for special occasions, weeknight dinners, or any time you want to treat yourself and loved ones to homemade comfort bread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls starts with just a handful of everyday ingredients. Each one works its charm to create that signature soft crumb, irresistible flavor, and golden glow. Here’s how each ingredient earns its place in this unforgettable bread:
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of our rolls, providing structure and that classic tender crumb.
- Active dry yeast: This little helper brings the rolls to life, creating that light, fluffy texture we all crave.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps feed the yeast for the perfect rise.
- Salt: Just a teaspoon brings out all the flavors and keeps the dough balanced—not bland.
- Warm milk (110°F): Milk enriches your dough for extra softness and a beautiful golden color.
- Unsalted butter (melted, plus more for brushing): An unbeatable flavor booster that adds richness and tenderness.
- Large egg: Brings structure and tender crumb, plus gives your rolls that appetizing sheen.
- Garlic (minced): The star of the flavor show—fresh garlic infuses the butter with delightful aroma.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds color and a burst of fresh, herby brightness on top.
- Garlic powder: For an even, mellow garlic flavor that lingers in every bite.
How to Make Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Gently stir the warm milk, yeast, and one tablespoon of sugar together in a small bowl. Give this mixture 5 to 10 minutes to do its thing—it should become foamy and fragrant. That bubbly top means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, promising ultra-soft Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, the rest of the sugar, and salt. Stir in the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and the egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then keep mixing until everything just comes together. Don’t worry if it’s a little sticky—we want a soft dough for the fluffiest results!
Step 3: Knead to Perfection
Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface (or use the dough hook attachment if you have a stand mixer) and knead for 6 to 8 minutes. You’re aiming for a smooth, elastic dough that bounces back slightly when poked. This step is key for that dreamy, pull-apart texture in your Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, turning once to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when you press a finger gently into the top and the indentation stays.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Punch down your dough gently to release excess air bubbles, then divide it into 12 to 15 equal pieces. Roll each one into a smooth ball and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. For the prettiest presentation, try to keep them roughly the same size—it’s worth the extra moment of shaping!
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise again for 30 to 40 minutes, until they look puffy and have nearly doubled in size. This second proof is where the signature fluffiness takes shape, so don’t rush it!
Step 7: Make the Garlic Butter
While the rolls rise, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder, letting the mixture sizzle just until fragrant. This aromatic blend will infuse the rolls with serious garlic flavor from the very first bite.
Step 8: Brush and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush half of the garlic butter all over your unbaked rolls, making sure each one gets a little love. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the tops are glossy and golden brown—your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible!
Step 9: Finish and Serve
As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them with the remaining garlic butter and sprinkle with a generous handful of chopped parsley. Serve your Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls warm for the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How to Serve Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Garnishes
After baking, a sprinkle of fresh parsley (or even chives) over the rolls adds a brilliant pop of color and earthy flavor. For special occasions, a dash of flaky sea salt on top works wonders. Let your garnishes double as eye-candy and taste boosters!
Side Dishes
Pair these Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls with hearty soups, creamy pastas, holiday roasts, or simple salads. They’re perfect for soaking up sauces or turning a simple meal into something memorable. Don’t be surprised if they outshine the main dish!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake the rolls in a round dish for a “pull-apart bread” effect, or shape the dough into knots or twists before the final rise. You can even top half the batch with shredded cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a custom touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These rolls stay soft for up to three days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container or well-sealed bag to prevent them from drying out—and don’t forget to include a little parchment paper to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing
To freeze, let the Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls cool completely, then seal in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll keep fresh and fluffy for up to two months, making them perfect for prepping in advance or saving extras for busy days.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked magic, gently reheat the rolls in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or warm individual rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds. A quick brush of melted butter before serving will make them taste as if they just came out of the oven!
FAQs
Can I make Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! While a stand mixer takes some of the elbow grease out of kneading, you can easily mix and knead by hand. Just be prepared for a little workout—it’s worth it!
How do I know if my yeast is still active?
After mixing the yeast with warm milk and sugar, look for bubbles and foam forming within 10 minutes. If you don’t see any activity, it’s time to grab a fresh packet for the best fluffiness.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can swap instant yeast for active dry yeast in the same amount. Just skip the blooming step and mix it right in with the dry ingredients.
Can I make the dough the night before?
Definitely! Prepare the dough, shape into rolls, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let them come to room temperature and complete their final rise before baking. It’s a real game changer for stress-free holiday prep.
How can I make these even more rich and tender?
If you want to take luxury to the next level, substitute half the milk with heavy cream. The result will be incredibly soft, decadent rolls everyone will rave about!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the kind of bread that turns an ordinary dinner into a cozy, memorable meal, these Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are it. There’s something magical about making homemade rolls—and once you taste that buttery, garlicky softness, you’ll want to make them again and again. Give this recipe a try and prepare to share the love with every bite!
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Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12–15 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Light and Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are a perfect addition to any meal, with a soft, pillowy texture and a delicious garlic butter flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)
- 1 large egg
Garlic Butter Topping:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a bowl. Let it sit until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix into a soft dough. Knead for 6–8 minutes or use a stand mixer. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Shape and Bake: Divide dough, shape into balls, and place in a baking dish. Let rise again. Preheat oven. Melt 2 tablespoons butter with minced garlic and garlic powder. Brush over rolls. Bake until golden. Brush with remaining garlic butter and parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- For an extra soft texture, replace half the milk with heavy cream.
- These rolls can be made ahead: prepare the dough, shape the rolls, and refrigerate overnight, then bake the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
