
Hey, Welcome to the Golden Corral Rolls Recipe. Golden Corral Rolls are soft, buttery dinner rolls served at the Golden Corral buffet, known for their fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor.
If you’ve ever visited Golden Corral, you already know how addictive their warm, buttery rolls are.
I wanted to recreate that at home, and guess what? I nailed it! Today, I’m sharing the easiest way to make this comforting recipe right in your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
Servings: 12
Cuisine: American
Category: Bread
History and Origin
Golden Corral, a well-liked buffet franchise in the United States, is recognized for its generous Southern-style dishes. Among its most beloved items are the fresh-baked dinner rolls.
These soft, slightly sweet rolls are inspired by traditional Southern breadmaking, using simple pantry ingredients to deliver rich flavor and pillowy texture. By the way, you can also try the Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Recipe.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best Golden Corral Rolls Recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Warm water (110°F) | 1 cup |
| Whole milk | ½ cup |
| Granulated sugar | â…“ cup |
| Active dry yeast | 1 packet (2¼ tsp) |
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups (approx.) |
| Salt | 1½ tsp |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | ¼ cup (plus more) |
| Large egg | 1 |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Homemade Golden Corral Rolls:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Dough hook or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Clean kitchen towel
- Oven
How to Make Golden Corral Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, milk, and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix well. Gradually add remaining flour until the dough is soft but not sticky.
Step 3: Knead and Let Rise
Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Place a towel over the bowl and allow it to rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Deflate the dough and cut it into 12 equal portions. Form into rolls and arrange them on a greased baking tray. Cover them and allow to rise once more for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter while hot.
Recipe Card

Golden Corral Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, milk, and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

- Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix well. Gradually add remaining flour until the dough is soft but not sticky.

- Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Place a towel over the bowl and allow it to rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

- Deflate the dough and cut it into 12 equal portions. Form into rolls and arrange them on a greased baking tray. Cover them and allow to rise once more for 30 minutes.

- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter while hot.

Notes
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the Easy Golden Corral Rolls Recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount (per roll) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 4g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve Golden Corral Rolls Recipe warm with a generous brush of melted butter. They pair beautifully with soups, stews, roasted meats, or even as mini sandwich buns.

You can also serve them on holiday dinner tables for an extra-special touch.
Storage Tips
After the rolls have cooled down, keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for a maximum of 2 days.
To keep them soft longer, wrap in foil and refrigerate for 4–5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds to refresh before serving.
Tips for Perfectly Fluffy Rolls
To get the softest texture, always use warm liquids and fresh yeast. Avoid adding too much flour, as it can make the rolls dense.
Letting the dough rise fully and brushing with butter after baking ensures a pillowy, golden finish.
Variations You Can Try
You can easily personalize Golden Corral Rolls Recipe. Add garlic and herbs for savory flavor, sprinkle cheese before baking for a cheesy twist, or brush with honey butter for sweetness.
These little changes make every batch special and uniquely yours.
Why Homemade Rolls Taste Better
Homemade rolls taste fresher because they’re made with real butter and simple ingredients.
Unlike store-bought versions, they’re soft, warm, and aromatic right out of the oven. Plus, the satisfaction of baking them yourself makes every bite more enjoyable.
Pairing Ideas for Golden Corral Rolls
Golden Corral Rolls Recipe complements many dishes. Serve them with creamy soups, grilled chicken, or hearty stews.
They also pair perfectly with holiday feasts or BBQ dinners. Their slightly sweet taste balances both savory and rich main courses effortlessly.
How to Reheat Golden Corral Rolls
To enjoy that Golden Corral Rolls Recipe warmth again, reheat the rolls in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes or microwave for 10 seconds.
Wrap them in a damp paper towel to keep them soft and prevent drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using hot water, which can kill the yeast. Don’t skip the rising time, as that’s what gives rolls their fluffiness.
Overbaking can also make them hard. Keep an eye on the color—they should be just golden brown.
Conclusion
Golden Corral Rolls are the perfect copycat recipe to bring that cozy, buffet-style flavor home. Soft, golden, and full of homemade charm, they’re a hit with every meal.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Indeed, once you have formed the rolls, you can put them in the freezer. Thaw and let them rise before baking.
Why are my rolls not fluffy?
This typically occurs when the dough hasn’t risen sufficiently. Make sure your yeast is fresh and the dough has doubled before shaping.
Can I make these rolls dairy-free?
Yes, substitute dairy milk with almond milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
What flour works best for this recipe?
All-purpose flour works great, but you can also use bread flour for extra chewiness.
You will also like the Portillo’s Sweet Peppers Recipe.
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