We’ve all savored the irresistible warmth of Golden Corral’s yeast rolls, those fluffy bites of comfort that evoke family buffets and simple joys. Now we’re recreating that iconic recipe right in your kitchen using a bread machine for effortless baking.
Our take keeps the soft texture and buttery flavor intact making it a breeze for home cooks. Whether you’re hosting dinner or just craving a fresh batch these rolls will become your go-to treat.
Ingredients
To capture the fluffy texture and buttery flavor of our Golden Corral Yeast Rolls using a bread machine, we start with these carefully selected ingredients. We’ve ordered them as they are typically added during preparation for seamless mixing.
- 1 cup warm water (110°F) – Activates the yeast for a perfect rise, ensuring light and airy rolls.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast – Fresh yeast is key to achieving that signature soft crumb we love in these rolls.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Provides a subtle sweetness that enhances the comforting taste and helps the yeast thrive.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors for a well-rounded, irresistible finish.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Delivers the rich, buttery essence that makes these rolls a family favorite.
- 1 large egg – Adds moisture and structure, contributing to the tender, pillowy texture.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base, creating the hearty yet soft consistency perfect for any occasion.
Equipment Needed
To seamlessly transition from gathering our ingredients for the Golden Corral Yeast Rolls, we now focus on the essential equipment that makes preparing these fluffy, buttery rolls in the bread machine straightforward and efficient. This setup ensures precise mixing and kneading, helping us achieve that signature texture with minimal effort.
Here’s a detailed list of the key equipment we’ll use:
- Bread Machine: Our primary tool for effortless dough preparation; it handles mixing, kneading, and rising to mimic the professional results of Golden Corral’s rolls.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success; use dry measuring cups for flour and liquid measuring cups for water and melted butter to avoid inconsistencies.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Ideal for initially combining wet ingredients like warm water, melted butter, and the egg before adding them to the bread machine.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon: Helps us blend ingredients smoothly in the mixing bowl; a whisk works best for incorporating the egg and yeast evenly.
- Digital Kitchen Scale (optional but recommended): For precise weighing of flour and other ingredients; this ensures consistency in our rolls’ texture, especially if we’re scaling the recipe.
- Baking Sheet or Loaf Pan: If the dough needs manual shaping after the bread machine cycle, this is essential for the final proofing and baking in a conventional oven.
- Oven Mitts and Timer: Protect our hands while handling hot equipment and track rising and baking times accurately for optimal results.
By having these items ready, we set the stage for a smooth baking process that captures the comforting essence of Golden Corral’s yeast rolls right in our kitchen.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment prepared, let’s guide you through creating our homemade Golden Corral Yeast Rolls with the bread machine. We’ll ensure each step delivers the signature fluffy texture and buttery flavor that makes these rolls irresistible.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start, gather and measure all ingredients accurately to achieve the perfect rise and taste in our Golden Corral Yeast Rolls. Begin by warming 1 cup of water to 110°F – use a thermometer for precision as this activates the yeast without killing it. In a separate bowl, dissolve 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast in the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it foams – this step ensures the yeast is active and ready.
Next, measure out ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter (cooled slightly), 1 large egg (beaten), and 3 ½ to 4 cups of all-purpose flour. Sift the flour to remove lumps and promote even mixing, which helps create the light, airy crumb we love in these rolls. Have all items ready in the order we’ll use them to streamline the process and avoid any interruptions.
Add Ingredients to the Bread Machine
With ingredients prepped, add them to the bread machine pan in the correct order to prevent the yeast from activating too early and ensure smooth dough formation. First, pour in the yeast mixture (the foamy warm water and yeast), followed by the melted unsalted butter and beaten egg.
Then, add the dry ingredients on top: granulated sugar, salt, and finally the sifted all-purpose flour. Use the bread machine’s dough setting as specified in your model’s manual – this sequence allows for proper hydration and mixing, setting the stage for the soft, pillowy texture of our Golden Corral Yeast Rolls.
Knead and Rise in the Bread Machine
Once ingredients are added, select the dough cycle on your bread machine and start it – most cycles run for about 90 minutes and include kneading and rising phases. During kneading, the machine will mix the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, typically taking 10 to 15 minutes, while the rising phase lets the dough double in size thanks to the active yeast.
Monitor the process through the machine’s window but avoid opening it prematurely to maintain warmth and humidity, which are key for that signature fluffy rise. After the cycle ends, the dough should feel soft and spring back when gently pressed, signaling it’s ready for shaping and promising the comforting, buttery aroma of fresh Golden Corral Yeast Rolls.
Shape the Rolls
Remove the dough from the bread machine pan onto a lightly floured surface and punch it down gently to release air bubbles – this step ensures even baking and the ideal roll shape. Divide the dough into 12 to 15 equal portions using a bench scraper or knife; for accuracy, we recommend weighing each portion at about 2 ounces to guarantee uniform size and consistent golden-brown results.
Roll each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath, then place them on a greased baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Cover loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm spot for 30 to 45 minutes until doubled – this final rise enhances the soft, tender interior that defines our Golden Corral Yeast Rolls.
Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the center for even heat distribution, which helps achieve a perfectly golden crust. Once the rolls have risen, brush their tops with a light coating of melted unsalted butter for extra shine and flavor enhancement.
Bake the rolls for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn a deep golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom – the buttery scent will fill your kitchen, evoking the warmth of family gatherings. For precise baking times based on your oven:
| Oven Type | Baking Time (minutes) | Internal Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional | 12-15 | 190-200 |
| Convection | 10-13 | 190-200 |
Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving to lock in that fresh, fluffy goodness.
Make-Ahead Tips
As we perfect our Golden Corral Yeast Rolls using the bread machine, let’s explore practical ways to prepare them in advance. This approach allows us to enjoy fresh, fluffy rolls without last-minute hassle, making them ideal for dinner parties or family gatherings.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
We can streamline our baking process by making the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After the bread machine completes the dough cycle, shape the rolls as described in our earlier steps. Instead of baking immediately, cover the shaped rolls tightly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth to prevent drying. Refrigerate them in an airtight container. When ready to bake, let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes to rise again before proceeding to the oven. This method preserves the yeast’s activity and ensures those signature buttery flavors shine through.
Freezing Unbaked Rolls
For longer storage, freezing unbaked rolls is a game-changer. Once shaped, place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid—typically 1 to 2 hours. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing quality. To bake from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, let rise at room temperature for 1 hour, and bake as per our original instructions. This technique keeps the rolls soft and airy, just like the ones from Golden Corral.
Freezing Baked Rolls
If we prefer to bake first, cool the rolls completely on a wire rack after they emerge golden brown from the oven. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours and warm in a 350°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes. This restores their warm, comforting taste and prevents sogginess.
| Storage Method | Duration | Thawing/Baking Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated Dough | Up to 24 hours | Let rise 30–60 minutes at room temperature |
| Frozen Unbaked Rolls | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in fridge, then rise 1 hour |
| Frozen Baked Rolls | Up to 2 months | Thaw 1–2 hours, reheat at 350°F for 5–10 minutes |
Conclusion
We’ve loved guiding you through recreating Golden Corral yeast rolls with your bread machine. It’s a straightforward way to capture that fluffy buttery charm in your own home.
These rolls add a touch of comfort to any occasion making memories even sweeter. Try them today and enjoy the homemade magic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Golden Corral Yeast Rolls special?
Golden Corral Yeast Rolls are beloved for their fluffy texture and buttery flavor, evoking memories of family gatherings. This homemade recipe captures that comforting taste using simple ingredients like yeast, sugar, and butter, making them easy to prepare with a bread machine for a perfect addition to any dinner party.
What ingredients are needed for the homemade Golden Corral Yeast Rolls recipe?
You’ll need warm water, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, salt, melted unsalted butter, a large egg, and all-purpose flour. Accurate measurements ensure the rolls achieve their signature fluffy texture and buttery flavor, with ingredients added in a specific order to the bread machine for seamless mixing.
What equipment is required to make these rolls?
Essential tools include a bread machine for mixing and kneading, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a large mixing bowl, a whisk or wooden spoon, a digital kitchen scale, a baking sheet or loaf pan, oven mitts, and a timer. These items make the process straightforward and efficient for home bakers.
How do I prepare Golden Corral Yeast Rolls at home using a bread machine?
Start by warming water and activating the yeast, then add sugar, salt, butter, egg, and sifted flour to the bread machine. Select the dough cycle for mixing and rising. Once done, shape the dough into uniform rolls, let them proof, brush with butter, and bake at the recommended temperature until golden brown for that authentic taste.
Can I make these yeast rolls ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating shaped rolls after the bread machine cycle. For longer storage, freeze unbaked rolls for up to 3 months or baked ones for 2 months. Thaw frozen rolls in the fridge overnight and bake as directed for fresh, fluffy results at your convenience.
How should I store and reheat the Golden Corral Yeast Rolls?
Store baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For reheating, warm in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes. Frozen unbaked rolls can be baked directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes, to restore their soft, buttery goodness.
Are there any tips for getting the best results with this recipe?
Use fresh yeast and accurate measurements for optimal rising. Ensure ingredients are at the right temperature, like warm water for yeast activation. After baking, cool rolls on a rack to maintain fluffiness. For variations, experiment with herbs or garlic, but stick to the original for that classic Golden Corral flavor.