Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic bread rolls are the perfect combination of fluffy bread, rich butter, and aromatic garlic, making them an irresistible side dish. These rolls are soft on the inside, golden and crispy on the outside, and packed with garlicky, herby goodness. Whether served alongside pasta, soups, or enjoyed on their own, they are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to make from scratch or with store-bought dough!

Ingredients

All-purpose or bread flour
Warm water or milk
Active dry yeast or instant yeast
Sugar
Salt
Butter (unsalted, melted)
Garlic (minced or grated)
Fresh parsley or dried herbs
Olive oil
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Egg (for egg wash, optional)

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm water or milk with sugar and yeast.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy (if using instant yeast, skip this step).

2. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture and melted butter.
Knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms (about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–6 minutes in a stand mixer).

3. First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions.
Roll each piece into a ball and place them in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet.
Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.

5. Make the Garlic Butter

In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.

6. Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the rolls with garlic butter (reserve some for later).
Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown.

7. Final Touch

Remove from the oven and immediately brush with the remaining garlic butter.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Stuff each roll with mozzarella before baking.
Herb-Infused Rolls: Add dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.
Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes into the garlic butter.
Dairy-Free Option: Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cheese.
Shortcut Version: Use store-bought dough for a quicker recipe.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1.5 hours
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 12 rolls

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: Freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months; reheat before serving.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and shape the rolls, then refrigerate overnight before baking.

What’s the best flour for garlic bread rolls?

Bread flour gives a chewier texture, while all-purpose flour makes them softer.

How do I get a golden crust?

Brushing the rolls with an egg wash before baking helps achieve a golden brown finish.

Can I use roasted garlic instead of raw?

Absolutely! Roasted garlic adds a milder, slightly sweet flavor.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

Make sure your yeast is fresh, and let the dough rise in a warm place.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based butter and replace milk with water or non-dairy milk.

How can I make the rolls extra fluffy?

Ensure proper kneading and rising times, and don’t add too much flour.

What can I serve these rolls with?

They pair well with pasta, soups, salads, or even as a snack on their own.

Can I use a bread machine?

Yes! Use the dough setting to knead and rise, then shape and bake manually.

How do I store leftover garlic butter?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

Homemade garlic bread rolls are a game-changer for any meal. Soft, buttery, and bursting with garlicky flavor, they’re the perfect accompaniment to your favorite dishes. Whether you make them from scratch or take shortcuts, these rolls are sure to become a household favorite. Try them today and enjoy bakery-quality bread at home!

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