Hey there! If you have never tried butterhorns before, you are in for a treat. These soft, buttery, and slightly sweet rolls are the kind of thing you want to make over and over.
The best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker to get them right. I am going to break down everything for you—ingredients, tips, storage, and even what to serve them with. So, let’s get baking.
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and equipment you need to make this recipe:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Dough scraper (optional but helpful)
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Kitchen towel (for covering the dough)
- Wire rack (for cooling)
Important Info
- Servings: 24 butterhorns
- Estimated Cost: Making this recipe will cost around $6-$8, depending on ingredient prices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours (including rising time)
- Additional Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (for the dough to rise)
- Calories per Serving: Around 150 calories per butterhorn
- Cook Method: Baking
- Season: Perfect for any season
- Course: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Cuisine: International
- Diets: Vegetarian
How to Make Butterhorns
Now I am going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this delicacy and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
- ½ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Bread flour |
| Active dry yeast | Instant yeast (use 1 ¾ tsp) |
| Unsalted butter | Margarine or coconut oil |
| Sugar | Honey or maple syrup |
| Warm milk | Warm water with 1 tbsp dry milk powder |
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, mix softened butter, eggs, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Add the yeast mixture to the butter mixture and stir.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a 12-inch circle and cut into 12 wedges (like a pizza).
- Roll each wedge from the wide end to the narrow tip, forming a crescent shape.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush each butterhorn with melted butter.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Transfer to a wire rack and let cool slightly before serving.
Helpful Tips
- If your yeast doesn’t foam after 10 minutes, it is probably expired. Use fresh yeast.
- Don’t add too much flour—this will make the rolls dry.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place (not too hot) for the best results.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut even wedges.
- Brush extra melted butter on top for a richer taste.
What to Serve with Butterhorns
Butterhorns are great on their own, but if you want to make them extra special, try these:
- Jam or fruit preserves
- Honey butter
- Scrambled eggs for a breakfast combo
- Soup or stew for a hearty meal
- A cup of coffee or tea
How Do You Serve Butterhorns?
I love serving them warm with a little extra butter on top. If you want to go fancy, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar before baking for a sweet touch.
Where Do You Serve This Recipe the Most?
Butterhorns are perfect for:
- Breakfast – A soft, warm start to the day.
- Holiday dinners – A great addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Picnics – They stay fresh at room temperature and don’t need utensils.
- Parties – Serve them as a light snack or appetizer.
Storage
Short-Term Storage (Room Temperature)
- Place the butterhorns in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigeration
- If you want to keep them fresh for up to a week, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
- To store for longer, freeze butterhorns in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough a day ahead and let it rise in the fridge overnight. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature, shape, and continue with the recipe.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can, but the texture will be denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a softer result.
Do butterhorns have to be sweet?
No, you can reduce the sugar and add herbs or cheese for a savory version.
Why did my butterhorns turn out dry?
This happens if too much flour is used or if they are overbaked. Stick to the recommended measurements and bake time.
Can I add fillings to my butterhorns?
Yes! You can spread jam, cinnamon sugar, or even chocolate before rolling them up for extra flavor.
Meta Description
Make the best butterhorns with this easy butterhorns recipe. Soft, buttery, and delicious, these homemade crescent rolls are perfect for breakfast or snacks.