Golden Corral yeast rolls are famous for their irresistibly soft, fluffy texture and rich buttery flavor. These dinner rolls have a light, airy crumb with a slightly sweet taste, making them a perfect complement to any meal. Whether you’re serving them with a hearty main course or enjoying them with a spread of butter, their pillowy softness makes them a crowd favorite.
By following this recipe, you’ll learn the secrets to making perfectly fluffy and buttery dinner rolls just like those served at Golden Corral. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, a holiday feast, or a simple weeknight dinner, these homemade yeast rolls will quickly become a staple at your table.
You can also try this Gluten Free Hawaiian Rolls recipe, which offers the same soft texture and delicious flavor without gluten.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Golden Corral Yeast Rolls Recipe
If you’ve ever dined at Golden Corral, you know their soft, buttery yeast rolls are one of the highlights of the meal. This homemade version delivers the same fluffy texture and rich flavor, making it the ultimate copycat Golden Corral yeast rolls recipe. Here’s why you’ll love making these rolls from scratch:
1. Soft, Fluffy, and Buttery
These homemade yeast rolls rise beautifully, creating a light and airy texture with a tender crumb. Each bite is rich with a buttery finish, making them a perfect side dish for any meal.
2. Simple Ingredients, Bakery-Quality Results
You don’t need any special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients to make these dinner rolls. Basic pantry staples like flour, yeast, sugar, butter, and milk come together to create a batch of Golden Corral-style rolls that taste just like the original.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re serving them with a holiday feast, a Sunday dinner, or a casual weeknight meal, these rolls add a comforting homemade touch. They also pair beautifully with soups, stews, roasted meats, and even breakfast spreads.
4. Better Than Store-Bought
Unlike pre-packaged dinner rolls, this Golden Corral yeast rolls recipe gives you complete control over the ingredients and freshness. No preservatives—just warm, freshly baked rolls straight from your oven.
5. Freezer-Friendly for Easy Meal Prep
Make a large batch and freeze them for later! You can store the dough or baked rolls for a quick, homemade side whenever you need it.
Once you try this copycat Golden Corral rolls recipe, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Next, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to make them.
Ingredients for Golden Corral Yeast Rolls
To achieve the signature soft and buttery texture of Golden Corral yeast rolls, you’ll need a few simple baking staples. Using the right ingredients in the correct proportions ensures the rolls rise properly, develop a light crumb, and have that perfect golden-brown finish.
Essential Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour) – Provides structure while keeping the rolls soft and tender. Bread flour will give a slightly chewier texture.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet) – Helps the dough rise and creates the fluffy texture. You can also use instant yeast for a quicker rise.
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C) – Activates the yeast and adds richness. Whole milk works best for flavor and texture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Slightly sweetens the dough and helps feed the yeast for better rising.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
- 1 large egg – Contributes to the softness and structure of the dough.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness and a tender crumb. Some of this butter will be brushed on top for a golden finish.
- ¼ cup warm water (110°F/43°C) – Helps dissolve the yeast and kick-starts fermentation.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- 1 tablespoon honey – Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the depth of flavor.
- Additional melted butter for brushing – Creates a shiny, buttery top.
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to making fluffy and buttery dinner rolls just like Golden Corral’s. Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for making the dough and baking these soft, pillowy rolls.
How to Make Golden Corral Yeast Rolls (Instructions)
Making these Golden Corral yeast rolls at home is easier than you might think. By following these simple steps, you’ll create soft, buttery dinner rolls with a perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water (110°F/43°C), warm milk, and granulated sugar. Stir until dissolved.
- Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the liquid and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, the yeast may be expired or the liquid was too hot or too cold.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the flour. Mix with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough:
- By hand: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- With a stand mixer: Knead on medium speed for 5–7 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 3: First Rise (Proofing the Dough)
- Lightly grease a bowl with butter or oil and place the dough inside. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Divide the dough into 15–18 equal portions (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll to allow for rising.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover the baking dish with a towel and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Step 6: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter for a golden crust.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
- Remove the rolls from the oven and brush with more melted butter for extra flavor.
- Let them cool slightly before serving warm with butter, jam, or honey.
Now that your homemade Golden Corral yeast rolls are ready, let’s explore the best ways to serve and pair them for any meal.
Serving Suggestions for Golden Corral Yeast Rolls
These soft, buttery yeast rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or repurposing leftovers, here are the best ways to serve them:
1. Classic Side for Dinner
These homemade dinner rolls pair perfectly with a variety of main courses, adding a warm and comforting touch to any meal. Serve them alongside:
- Roasted meats – Perfect with grilled chicken, turkey, beef roast, or lamb.
- Hearty stews and soups – Dip them into beef stew, creamy chicken soup, or vegetable soup for a rich, flavorful bite.
- Holiday feasts – A must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter dinners.
2. Breakfast and Brunch Pairings
Start your day with these golden, fluffy rolls:
- With butter and jam – Spread with strawberry jam, honey, or fruit preserves for a light breakfast.
- Breakfast sandwiches – Slice them open and fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and turkey sausage for a satisfying breakfast.
- French toast-style – Dip leftover rolls in a cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture, then pan-fry for a unique twist on French toast.
3. Sweet Variations
Turn your yeast rolls into a sweet treat with these simple additions:
- Cinnamon sugar rolls – Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Honey butter glaze – Mix honey and butter for a sweet, glossy finish.
- Strawberry shortcake alternative – Slice open and top with whipped cream and fresh berries.
4. Leftover Ideas
If you have leftover Golden Corral rolls, try these creative uses:
- Homemade croutons – Cube and toast them for a crispy salad topping.
- Bread pudding – Soak in a sweet custard mixture and bake for a decadent dessert.
- Garlic bread – Slice, spread with garlic butter, and toast for a quick garlic bread alternative.
These copycat Golden Corral rolls are so soft and delicious that they won’t last long—but if you do have extras, they freeze beautifully for future meals. Up next, let’s answer some common questions about making and storing these rolls.
Golden Corral Yeast Rolls Recipe
Golden Corral Yeast Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour – Provides structure while keeping the rolls soft and tender. Bread flour will give a slightly chewier texture.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast one packet – Helps the dough rise and creates the fluffy texture. You can also use instant yeast for a quicker rise.
- 1 cup warm milk 110°F/43°C – Activates the yeast and adds richness. Whole milk works best for flavor and texture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Slightly sweetens the dough and helps feed the yeast for better rising.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
- 1 large egg – Contributes to the softness and structure of the dough.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted – Adds richness and a tender crumb. Some of this butter will be brushed on top for a golden finish.
- ¼ cup warm water 110°F/43°C – Helps dissolve the yeast and kick-starts fermentation.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- 1 tablespoon honey – Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the depth of flavor.
- Additional melted butter for brushing – Creates a shiny buttery top.
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water (110°F/43°C), warm milk, and granulated sugar. Stir until dissolved.
- Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the liquid and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, the yeast may be expired or the liquid was too hot or too cold.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the flour. Mix with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough:
- By hand: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- With a stand mixer: Knead on medium speed for 5–7 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 3: First Rise (Proofing the Dough)
- Lightly grease a bowl with butter or oil and place the dough inside. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Divide the dough into 15–18 equal portions (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll to allow for rising.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover the baking dish with a towel and let the rolls rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
Step 6: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter for a golden crust.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
- Remove the rolls from the oven and brush with more melted butter for extra flavor.
- Let them cool slightly before serving warm with butter, jam, or honey.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 5g
FAQs
If you’re making these Golden Corral yeast rolls for the first time, you might have a few questions. Below are answers to the most common concerns about ingredients, technique, and storage.
Q. What are the rolls at Golden Corral?
Golden Corral serves soft, buttery yeast rolls that are slightly sweet with a fluffy, airy texture. They are made with yeast, flour, butter, sugar, and milk, giving them a rich flavor and tender crumb. These rolls are a customer favorite and are often served warm with butter.
Q. Why are my yeast rolls not light and fluffy?
Several factors can affect the texture of your rolls:
– Yeast activation – Ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated before adding it to the dough. If the mixture doesn’t foam, the yeast may be expired.
– Kneading time – The dough must be kneaded long enough to develop gluten, which gives structure and softness. Under-kneading can result in dense rolls.
– Proofing – Let the dough rise twice until doubled in size. Rushing the rising process can lead to dense, heavy rolls.
Flour measurement – Adding too much flour makes the dough dry and tough. Use the scoop-and-level method instead of packing flour into the measuring cup.
Q. What type of yeast to use for rolls?
You can use active dry yeast or instant yeast:
– Active dry yeast – Needs to be dissolved in warm liquid before mixing with other ingredients.
– Instant yeast – Can be mixed directly with flour and does not require proofing. It also helps the dough rise faster.
Q. Is it better to freeze yeast rolls before or after baking?
Both methods work, depending on your preference:
– Before baking – Shape the dough into rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw and let them rise before baking as usual. According to King Arthur Baking, increasing the yeast slightly can help maintain the dough’s rise after freezing.
– After baking – Cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes before serving.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have perfect fluffy and buttery dinner rolls every time. Now, let’s wrap up with a final thought on this homemade Golden Corral yeast rolls recipe.
Conclusion
Try this recipe today, and enjoy the comforting taste of Golden Corral yeast rolls straight from your oven. Once you make them from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought rolls again!
If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, be sure to check out this Gluten Free Hawaiian Rolls recipe—it delivers the same pillowy softness and rich flavor without gluten.