Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own batch of heavenly Fluffy Garlic Dinner Rolls. Don’t be intimidated by baking with yeast; this recipe is designed to be straightforward and rewarding.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, or the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy and bubbly. This step is crucial to ensure your yeast is active and ready to make your rolls rise beautifully. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it might be old or inactive, and you’ll need to start with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once the yeast is foamy, add the warmed milk, melted and slightly cooled butter, and the egg to the yeast mixture. Whisk gently to combine all the wet ingredients. Ensure the butter is not too hot to avoid cooking the egg.

Step 3: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed with a dough hook (if using a stand mixer) or with a wooden spoon (if mixing by hand). Continue to mix until the dough comes together and forms a shaggy mass.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

If using a stand mixer, knead the dough on low to medium speed for 6-8 minutes. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

Step 5: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This first rise is essential for developing flavor and creating a light and airy texture. A warm place can be a slightly warmed oven (turned off!), a sunny spot, or simply a draft-free area in your kitchen.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. You can use a kitchen scale for precise portions or simply eyeball it. Shape each portion into a smooth round roll by gently stretching the top surface of the dough and tucking it underneath to create a smooth ball.

Step 7: Second Rise (Proofing)

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Place the shaped rolls evenly spaced in the prepared pan. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise again in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until they have nearly doubled in size and are puffy. This second rise, also known as proofing, is crucial for achieving that signature fluffy texture.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Prepare Garlic Butter

While the rolls are proofing, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the garlic butter topping by melting ¼ cup of unsalted butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Add the minced garlic and chopped parsley (if using) to the melted butter. Stir to combine and set aside.

Step 9: Bake the Rolls

Once the rolls are nicely puffed, brush the tops generously with the prepared garlic butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach around 200-210°F (93-99°C). If you notice the tops browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the pan with foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Step 10: Garlic Butter Bath (Optional but Recommended)

For extra flavor and shine, brush the baked rolls with the remaining garlic butter immediately after removing them from the oven. This “garlic butter bath” really elevates the flavor and keeps the rolls soft.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Let the Fluffy Garlic Dinner Rolls cool in the pan for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven, when they are at their absolute fluffiest and most flavorful. Pull apart and savor every garlicky, buttery, soft bite!