Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls bring warm, bakery-style comfort straight to your kitchen, and every bite is soft, fluffy, and brushed with rich garlicky goodness. This recipe comes together easily, and because the dough rises quickly, home cooks can enjoy freshly baked rolls without the wait. Moreover, the warm milk, simple ingredients, and buttery finish create a texture that feels both classic and elevated, making these rolls a perfect addition to weeknight dinners and holiday tables.

Interestingly, enriched yeast breads like these became popular in the early 1900s when families began adding butter and milk to create softer, more tender loaves. That tradition continues today, and these rolls honor that history with a modern, flavorful twist.

With their golden tops, tender interior, and glossy garlic butter finish, these rolls feel cozy yet elegant. They’re incredibly versatile, too, pairing beautifully with soups, roasts, pastas, or simple salads. Because they stay soft for hours, they’re ideal for gatherings, meal prep, or baking ahead to rewarm later. Cooking enthusiasts will love how reliably these rolls turn out every single time.

Recipe Yield: 12 servings

INGREDIENTS

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup warm whole milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt

Garlic Butter:
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp finely chopped parsley

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Activate yeast:
In a large bowl, whisk warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–7 minutes until foamy.

2. Make dough:
Add flour, salt, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead 8–10 minutes until smooth.

3. First rise:
Place dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour or until doubled.

4. Shape rolls:
Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a smooth ball and arrange in a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.

5. Second rise:
Cover and let rise 30–40 minutes until puffy.

6. Bake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the shaped dinner rolls for 18–20 minutes, or until the tops are golden.

7. Brush with garlic butter:
Combine melted butter, garlic, and parsley. Brush generously over warm rolls before serving.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE

• Use Warm Milk for a Strong Rise: Warm (not hot) milk activates the yeast quickly, helping the rolls rise high and stay extra fluffy. A consistent warm temperature ensures a tender crumb.
• Knead Until Smooth and Elastic: Proper kneading develops gluten, which helps the rolls bake evenly and hold their buttery texture. The dough should feel soft yet slightly tacky.
• Brush Twice for Extra Flavor: Brush once right after baking, then again five minutes later. This layers garlicky richness and makes the rolls glossy, soft, and irresistible.