Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Herb & garlic swirl rolls are the perfect blend of fluffy, buttery bread and aromatic garlic with fresh herbs. These rolls are visually stunning with their elegant swirls and packed with savory flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for pasta, soup, or a holiday meal, they add a gourmet touch to any table. Best of all, they’re easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time!

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, mix warm water or milk with sugar and yeast.
Let it 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. Make the Herb & Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt.

5. Roll and Fill

Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle on a floured surface.
Spread the herb & garlic butter evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.

6. Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the longer edge.
Slice into even pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.

7. Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the tops with egg wash or melted butter.
Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and brush with extra herb butter.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

Cheesy Swirl Rolls: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar before rolling.
Spicy Garlic Rolls: Mix in red pepper flakes for a heat kick.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter and non-dairy milk.
Whole Wheat Version: Replace half of the flour with whole wheat flour.
Lemon Herb Twist: Add lemon zest for a refreshing touch.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 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; thaw before reheating.
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! You can refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight and bake them the next day.

What’s the best flour to use?

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

How do I prevent my rolls from becoming dense?

Ensure proper kneading and rising times, and avoid adding too much flour.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

How can I get an extra golden crust?

Brushing the tops with an egg wash before baking helps achieve a rich golden brown color.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes! If short on time, use pre-made pizza or bread dough for quicker preparation.

What can I serve these rolls with?

They pair well with pasta, roasted meats, soups, and salads.

How do I make these extra soft?

Using milk instead of water in the dough makes the rolls softer and richer.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just divide the dough into two baking pans for even baking.

How do I store leftover herb butter?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for later use.

Conclusion

Herb & garlic swirl rolls are a beautiful and flavorful addition to any meal. With their soft, buttery texture and delicious garlicky goodness, these rolls are sure to be a family favorite. Whether for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, they’re an easy way to elevate your bread game. Try them today and enjoy homemade goodness like never before!

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