The Ultimate Garlic Butter Bread Rolls Recipe

Is there anything more comforting than a warm, pillowy soft bread roll brushed with rich, savory garlic butter? These Garlic Butter Bread Rolls are the kind of irresistible side dish that instantly elevates any meal — from casual weeknight dinners to your most cherished holiday spreads.

If you’re searching for the perfect dinner rolls with a golden crust and soft interior, infused with mouthwatering garlic flavor, this recipe will soon become your go-to. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these rolls are simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for guests.

Let’s dive into this homemade recipe that’s perfect for Thanksgiving cooking, weeknight dinners, or simply pairing with soup on a cozy day.

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Why You’ll Love These Easy Garlic Butter Bread Rolls

These easy garlic butter rolls are all about flavor and texture. They’re soft, fluffy, and buttery inside, with a golden, lightly crisp exterior brushed in aromatic garlic butter. Here’s why readers love them:

• Family-friendly – Kids devour them, and they’re ideal for lunchboxes or dinner sides.
• Freezer-friendly – Freeze them after baking and reheat whenever needed.
• Customizable – Add herbs, parmesan, or even turn them into easy garlic butter breadsticks with one tweak.
• Great for make-ahead meals – Bake a batch and enjoy all week with soups or holiday dinners.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Bread Rolls

Here’s everything you need to make these golden, buttery rolls:

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F)
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Optional: pinch of salt, parmesan cheese

Note: You can make this DIY garlic butter for bread ahead of time and store it in the fridge for multiple uses.

How to Make Homemade Garlic Butter

Making garlic butter at home is quick and adds incredible freshness.

1. In a small saucepan or skillet, melt ¼ cup butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned).
3. Stir in chopped parsley and a pinch of salt.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit while rolls bake.

This homemade garlic butter is not only great for these rolls but can be used to brush on toast, cheesy zucchini bread, or even tossed with pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Rolls

1. Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix the Dough

Add in the egg, melted butter, and salt. Gradually mix in flour, stirring with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes (or use a stand mixer for 5–6 minutes) until smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12–15 equal pieces. Roll into smooth balls and place in a greased baking dish or sheet.

6. Second Rise

Cover with a towel and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

7. Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Brush with Garlic Butter

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, generously brush with your warm garlic butter.

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Dough hook or hands for kneading
• Saucepan or skillet (for garlic butter)
• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Pastry brush
• Towel or plastic wrap (for proofing)

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Bread Rolls

• Use fresh yeast for the best rise. If your yeast doesn’t foam, start over.
• Don’t add too much flour – The dough should be soft, not stiff.
• Knead well – Kneading builds gluten, which gives the rolls a soft, stretchy texture.
• Proof in a warm, draft-free place – Try your oven with the light on.

Variations: Garlic Butter Breadsticks

Want to turn these rolls into breadsticks?

• After the first rise, roll the dough into a rectangle.
• Cut into strips, twist, and lay on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Let rise and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
• Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with parmesan.

You’ve got homemade easy garlic butter breadsticks ready to serve!

Serving Ideas for Garlic Butter Rolls

These rolls pair beautifully with:

• Creamy soups like mushroom or chicken stew
• Holiday spreads like Thanksgiving stuffing or roasted vegetables
• Simple family dinners like garlicky kale or vegetable casseroles

They also make a fun appetizer when served with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing:
Let rolls cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Freezing:
Wrap in foil or a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving — it can make them chewy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-flouring the dough makes the rolls dense.
• Skipping the second rise – This leads to flat, tough rolls.
• Baking too long – They’ll dry out and lose that soft center.
• Burning the garlic in butter – Always sauté on low heat.

Gluten-Free Garlic Butter Bread Rolls

For a gluten-free version, substitute your favorite glutenfri baking flour blend. Add 1 tsp xanthan gum if your mix doesn’t include it. Note that gluten-free dough will be stickier and less elastic but still delicious!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
Yes! You can skip the proofing step and mix it directly into the flour.

Can I make these ahead?
Absolutely. After shaping, refrigerate overnight and let rise at room temp before baking.

What herbs go well in garlic butter?
Parsley, rosemary, oregano, or basil all work beautifully!

Explore More Recipes You’ll Love

Craving more bread or side dish recipes? Check these out:

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
• Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
• Creamy Mushroom Soup
• Garlicky Kale with White Beans
• Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Final Thoughts

These Garlic Butter Bread Rolls are the kind of recipe that turns a simple meal into something memorable. Whether you’re serving them on a holiday table or alongside a bowl of soup, their rich, buttery garlic flavor never fails to impress.

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