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Homemade Golden Corral Rolls Easy Copycat Recipe photo

Golden Corral Rolls Easy Copycat Recipe

These Golden Corral Rolls are SO EASY! Soft, fluffy, and buttery rolls perfect for any meal or holiday gathering.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Bread, Copycat, Dinner Rolls, Easy, Golden Corral
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 6 tablespoons granulated sugar (81 grams)
  • 1/4 cup butter melted, divided use
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted, reserved for brushing
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant or active dry yeast
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 1/4 to 4 1/2 cups bread flour (about 566 to 600 grams)

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and water (make sure it's not too hot to avoid killing the yeast). Sprinkle the yeast over the top and add a pinch of sugar. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter (reserve 2 tablespoons for brushing), sugar, egg, and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the bowl and mix well.
  • Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may need to adjust the amount of flour slightly, depending on the humidity and flour brand.
  • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 4 minutes.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  • Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 12-15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving space between each roll.
  • Cover the shaped rolls with a towel and let them rise again in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until they puff up.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Brush with the reserved melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.
  • Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm and fresh, slathered with butter or your favorite spread.

Equipment

  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Stand Mixer or Wooden Spoon
  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Clean Kitchen Towel

Notes

  • Use bread flour for the best fluffy texture, but all-purpose flour can be substituted if needed.
  • Make sure liquids are warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
  • Freeze shaped rolls after the first rise for easy future baking.
  • For a twist, add herbs, cheese, or garlic to the dough or brush garlic butter on top after baking.
  • Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.