Introduction to Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
The joy of homemade dinner rolls
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, especially when those rolls are seasoned with rich garlic butter. Garlic butter dinner rolls bring not just warmth to the table but also a delightful blend of flavors that can elevate any meal. Picture this: soft, pillowy rolls drenched in a garlicky, buttery goodness, waiting to be torn apart and slathered with more butter or even used to mop up leftover sauces from your favorite dish.
Making dinner rolls from scratch might seem a bit daunting at first, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. Trust me—once you try whipping these up for a family dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, you’ll be hooked! This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. Plus, each roll comes packed with a flavor punch that’s hard to resist. Whether served alongside a warm bowl of pasta, rich soups, or roasted meats, these garlic butter dinner rolls are sure to impress your guests and leave everyone wanting more. Ready to dive in? Let’s get rolling!
For more tips on baking bread, check out King Arthur Baking for expert advice.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Creating the perfect garlic butter dinner rolls is all about using quality ingredients and following a few simple guidelines. Let’s break it down into two sections: one for the dough and another for the flavorful garlic butter topping.
For the dough
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110ºF) – This is key for activating the yeast.
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast – Ensure it's fresh for the best rise.
- 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar – This helps feed the yeast for leavening.
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour or bread flour (spooned and leveled) – Provide a strong structure.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing flavor.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness to the rolls.
- 1 large egg (at room temperature) – This binds the dough together.
For the garlic butter topping
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted) – A delicious base for the topping.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) – The star ingredient that provides that rich garlic flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped) – Brightens up the flavor and adds color.
- Sea salt (to taste) – Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors.
These ingredients come together to create a warm, inviting aroma in your kitchen, making these rolls a must-have for any dinner. For more tips on making impeccable bread, check out King Arthur Baking for additional insights!
Step-by-step preparation for Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Creating the perfect garlic butter dinner rolls can be a delightful and rewarding experience. Follow these simple steps to make fluffy, buttery rolls that will elevate any meal.
Activate the yeast
First things first, you need to activate the yeast for those dreamy rolls. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (around 110ºF), 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Whisk them together lightly. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. Yeast is the magic ingredient that will help your rolls rise—so make sure it’s alive and kicking! If there's no froth, it might be time to get new yeast.
Combine the dough ingredients
Once the yeast is activated, you can add the remaining ingredients. Stir in 3 ¼ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 large egg (at room temperature). Use a handheld whisk to mix everything into a shaggy dough. Don't stress about achieving perfection just yet; it will all come together soon.
Knead the dough to perfection
Now it’s time to work that dough! If you're using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, turn it to the slowest speed and let it knead for about 10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour until it reaches the right consistency. If you're kneading by hand, get ready for a workout! Knead on a floured surface for about 15-20 minutes until it passes the “bounce back” test when pressed.
First rise for fluffy rolls
Lightly oil a large bowl and place your kneaded dough inside, turning it to coat. Cover it with cling wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the sweet spot for letting your dough rise, and trust me, the fluffiness will be worth the wait!
Shape the dinner rolls
Once your dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into rolls. Punch down the dough gently to release the air and divide it into 12 equal sections. You can weigh them to ensure uniformity. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9”x13” baking pan, leaving a bit of space between each roll.
Second rise for optimal puffiness
Cover the pan with cling wrap again and allow the rolls to rise for another 1 to 2 hours. Watch them as they puff up and start to stick together; it’s a delightful sight!
Bake until golden brown
Preheat your oven to 350ºF while the rolls are rising. Once they're beautifully puffed, brush the tops and sides with a beaten egg for that glossy finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen? It’s bliss!
Prepare and glaze with garlic butter
In a small saucepan, melt ¼ cup of butter and add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for a couple of minutes until fragrant but not browned. Once the rolls are out of the oven, brush them generously with this garlic butter, sprinkle with fresh parsley and a little sea salt, and let the warm, buttery goodness wash over you.
And there you have it! Your garlic butter dinner rolls are ready to share (or not!)—perfect alongside a hearty pasta dish, soup, or a Sunday roast. Enjoy!
Variations on Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Herb-infused Garlic Rolls
Elevate your garlic butter dinner rolls by incorporating an array of fresh herbs! Try adding rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough, or mix them into the garlic butter for a delightful twist. Simply chop your herbs finely and fold them in during the mixing phase. This addition brings vibrant flavors that pair beautifully with any main dish. If you’re looking for a guide on selecting and using fresh herbs, check out this resource.
Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls
Indulge even more with cheese stuffed garlic butter dinner rolls! Before shaping each roll, flatten the dough slightly and place a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar in the center. Seal the dough around the cheese and shape it into a ball. Once baked, the molten cheese will make for an irresistible bite. This variation is particularly great served alongside soups or as an appetizer during gatherings. For more cheesy inspiration, visit Cheese Lovers.
Cooking Notes and Tips for Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Measuring Flour Correctly
For the best results with your Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls, accurate flour measurement is key. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this can compact the flour and lead to dry rolls. Instead, aerate your flour by whisking it first. Spoon it into your measuring cup, then level it off with a knife for precision.
Tips for Kneading by Hand
No stand mixer? No problem! Kneading by hand can be just as effective. Aim for about 15-20 minutes of kneading on a floured surface. Remember, the dough should be smooth and elastic—try the "window pane" test: stretch a small piece; if it doesn't tear, you’re good to go!
Storage and Reheating Advice
While these Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are best enjoyed fresh, storing them properly can keep them delightful for days. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For a quick reheating option, pop them in the microwave for 30 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven until they are heated through. If you have leftovers, consider storing them in the freezer for longer enjoyment—just make sure they’re cool before sealing them away.
Serving suggestions for Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Pairing with soups and salads
Garlic butter dinner rolls are the ultimate sidekick for your favorite soups and salads. Imagine dipping these warm, buttery rolls into a cozy bowl of tomato basil soup or pairing them with a refreshing garden salad dressed in zesty vinaigrette. Their fluffy texture absorbs flavors beautifully, making each bite an experience. For a healthy twist, try serving them alongside a hearty lentil soup. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Ideal accompaniments for main dishes
When it comes to main dishes, few things pair better with garlic butter dinner rolls than roasted meats or pasta. Picture succulent roasted chicken or a juicy beef roast sitting elegantly next to these rolls. And if you’re diving into a pasta dish, such as creamy fettuccine or classic spaghetti, these rolls serve as the perfect vehicle for mopping up that delicious sauce. For more flavorful pairings, consider exploring this guide to side dishes that can complement your meals.
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Preparation time
This recipe takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes from start to finish, including time for mixing and kneading the dough.
Rising time
Allow for about 1 to 1.5 hours for the first rise, plus another 1 to 2 hours for the second rise. These rising periods are crucial for achieving those pillowy, fluffy rolls.
Baking time
Once your garlic butter dinner rolls have risen beautifully, pop them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re golden brown and smelling divine.
Total time
In total, you’re looking at roughly 3 hours and 5 minutes to create these delightful rolls that’ll elevate any meal. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get rolling!
For tips on preparing the ingredients, check out resources from King Arthur Baking or Food Network.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
When indulging in these garlic butter dinner rolls, it’s helpful to be aware of their nutritional profile. Here's a quick breakdown:
Calories
Each roll contains approximately 227 calories, making them a flavorful yet moderate addition to your meal.
Carbohydrates
With about 29 grams of carbohydrates per roll, these dinner rolls provide a satisfying bite that pairs perfectly with various dishes.
Protein
You'll find about 6 grams of protein in every roll, offering a little boost to complement your diet.
If you're interested in more detailed nutrition information, you can check reliable sources like the USDA FoodData Central for further insights.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise and then refrigerate it. Just cover it tightly and let it rest in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready, bring the dough back to room temperature, shape the rolls, and let them rise again before baking. This is a great time-saver for when you're planning a dinner gathering!
What can I substitute for the butter?
If you're looking for alternatives to butter in these garlic butter dinner rolls, you can use plant-based margarine or olive oil for a dairy-free option. Other options include coconut oil or even vegan butter, depending on your dietary needs. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious!
How can I store leftover rolls?
To store any leftover garlic butter dinner rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just make sure they cool completely before sealing them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave or oven until warm. Perfect for those impromptu meals!
For more tips on storing bread, check out this helpful guide on King Arthur Baking.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
In summary, these garlic butter dinner rolls are your new go-to side dish for any meal. Their soft, pillowy texture, combined with a delectable garlic butter topping, makes them irresistible. Perfect for pairing with pasta or soups, these rolls are sure to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.
Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- 9x13 baking pan
- Small saucepan
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk about 110ºF
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon white granulated sugar
- 3.25 cups all purpose flour or bread flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg at room temperature (for the dough)
- 1 large egg beaten (for egg wash)
Garlic Butter Topping
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter melted
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
- sea salt to taste
Instructions
Dough Preparation
- In a mixing bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm milk, yeast, and white sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour, salt, melted butter, and one egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on low speed for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Adjust with flour if sticky.
- Oil a bowl, place the dough in it, cover with wrap, and let rise until doubled, about 1-1.5 hours.
Shaping and Baking
- Grease a 9"x13" baking pan. Punch down the dough, divide into 12 sections, and roll into balls.
- Place balls in the pan, cover, and let rise until puffed, about 1-2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350ºF. Brush rolls with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare garlic butter by melting butter in a saucepan, adding garlic, and cooking until fragrant.
- Brush garlic butter over rolls, sprinkle parsley, and add salt. Serve warm.
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