Soft Fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Welcome, my friend! Today, we’re rolling up our sleeves (pun intended!) for a recipe that’s warm, fluffy, and utterly irresistible. Imagine pulling apart golden, buttery dinner rolls infused with a delicate touch of garlic—simple, satisfying, and sure to make any meal feel a little more special. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday table, these Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls bring on the comfort and a whisper of elegance.

If you’re after bread that’s pillowy-soft and kissed with garlicky goodness, you’re in the right place!

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Don’t let the idea of homemade bread intimidate you! While there are a few steps, I’ll guide you every step of the way.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The garlic butter topping adds just the right savory touch without being overpowering.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for busy nights or surprise guests!
• Customizable: You can jazz these up with herbs, cheese, or keep them plain for dipping into soups and stews.

### Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials:

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our rolls, creating that soft, fluffy texture.
• Active Dry Yeast: The magic that makes these rolls rise! If you’re short on time, you can swap for instant yeast.
• Warm Milk: Helps activate the yeast and adds a touch of richness to the dough. I recommend whole milk for the best flavor.
• Sugar: A little sweetness balances the savory garlic butter topping.
• Butter: Both in the dough and brushed on top for that golden, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
• Garlic and Parsley: For the garlicky, herby topping that takes these rolls to the next level.

Pro Tips:

Want rolls with a deeper golden brown top? Use an egg wash instead of melted butter before baking. Trust me, it makes them picture-perfect!

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (about 110°F—not too hot!) with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. That’s the yeast waking up and saying hello!
2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and softened butter. Add the frothy yeast mixture and gently knead until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky. This takes about 8–10 minutes if kneading by hand, or 5–6 minutes if using a stand mixer with a dough hook.
3. Let It Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm spot for about 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Rolls: Lightly punch down the dough and divide it into 12 even portions. Roll each into a ball and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving just a bit of space between each roll for them to expand.
5. Second Rise: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a towel again and let the rolls rise for another 30–45 minutes. They should look puffy and snug against one another.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Garlic Butter Glaze: While the rolls are baking, mix melted butter with minced garlic and fresh parsley. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter. The aroma will be heavenly!

### Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Overheat the Milk: Milk that’s too hot can kill the yeast. Use a thermometer if you’re unsure!
• Make Ahead Tip: You can prep the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping.
• For Extra Fluffiness: Let the dough rise fully during each resting step—it’s worth the wait!

### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Herb Lovers: Add a teaspoon of dried rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning to the dough for extra flavor.
• Cheesy Rolls: Add shredded Parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking.
• Pairing Ideas: These rolls are perfect alongside soups, stews, or your favorite pasta dishes. They’re also heavenly with a smear of softened butter or honey.

### FAQs

• Can I freeze the rolls? Absolutely! Simply bake and cool them completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
• What can I use instead of active dry yeast? You can swap it with instant yeast, but skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
• How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Rewarm in the oven or microwave.

I hope these Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls warm your heart and your home. They’re a labor of love, but the payoff is worth every moment. If you try this recipe, I’d love to see how they turn out for you! Leave a comment below or tag your Instagram photos with #TheKitchensAid.