Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

Ready for a game-changer in your bread baking routine? Garlic Bread Rolls are here to dazzle your senses—they’re fluffy, packed with garlicky goodness, and perfect for sharing at any gathering (though, I won’t judge if you eat most of them yourself!). Each roll is buttery, aromatic, and laced with fresh herbs, creating that irresistible pull-apart effect that has everyone reaching for seconds. One bite and you’ll see why these rolls are about to become the star of your bread basket!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Garlic Bread Rolls stand out is their simplicity—just a handful of pantry staples, each selected for how it elevates the final flavor and texture. From the warmth of freshly minced garlic to the pillowy embrace of well-kneaded dough, every ingredient plays a starring role.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your rolls, ensuring a soft yet sturdy structure—don’t substitute with cake flour for best results.
• Active dry yeast: This kickstarts the rising process, delivering that cloud-like lift to each roll.
• Warm milk: Adds a creamy richness, making the rolls extra tender and flavorful.
• Sugar: Just a bit sweetens the dough and helps activate the yeast, giving it a healthy rise.
• Salt: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing every bite.
• Butter: Melted into the dough and brushed on top, butter layers on richness and that signature golden sheen.
• Fresh garlic: The heart of these rolls—mince it finely for maximum flavor spread in every bite.
• Fresh parsley: Sprinkled throughout, parsley offers a pop of color and a burst of fresh, herby notes.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For ultimate indulgence, this adds a salty, nutty finish on top.

How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by combining warm milk (not hot—think about the warmth of a cozy bath) with sugar and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let this rest for 5 to 10 minutes until it gets bubbly and frothy. This step is your assurance that the yeast is alive and raring to go, setting up the perfect rise for your Garlic Bread Rolls.

Step 2: Make the Dough

To your yeast mixture, add the flour, salt, and half of the melted butter. Mix until the ingredients start to come together, forming a shaggy dough. Once combined, knead by hand or with a dough hook for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. The more you knead, the airier your rolls will be!

Step 3: First Rise

Place your dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until doubled in size. This first proof creates the wonderfully soft and fluffy texture you crave in Garlic Bread Rolls.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, stir together the remaining melted butter, freshly minced garlic, and chopped parsley. This aromatic combo will infuse your rolls with that signature flavor and a hint of fresh green vibrancy.

Step 5: Shape and Fill the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into even pieces (about 12 if you like mini rolls, or 8 for big, bold rolls). Flatten each ball slightly, spoon a dab of the garlic butter mixture into the center, and pinch the dough closed around it. Arrange the balls seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls and let them rest for another 30 minutes so they puff up a bit more. This second rise ensures your Garlic Bread Rolls are light and airy once baked.

Step 7: Bake

Brush the tops generously with more garlic butter and, if you fancy, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and tempting. They’ll fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma—resist the urge to dive in immediately!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garnishes

Elevate your freshly baked Garlic Bread Rolls by topping them with an extra flourish of chopped parsley or a light dusting of flaky sea salt right before serving. Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan after baking will create those irresistible cheesy pools on top. The color, contrast, and aroma of these simple garnishes make each bite a treat for all the senses.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread Rolls are blissfully versatile. Serve them as a cozy companion to hearty soups like tomato basil or creamy potato, or let them shine beside your favorite pasta. They’re also fantastic for mopping up spicy curry sauces or accompanying a crisp, fresh salad for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your rolls into a party centerpiece by arranging them in a spiral on a round platter or serving them pull-apart style in a skillet for maximum wow-factor. Or split and fill with mini meatballs, roasted veggies, or cheese for savory sliders nobody can resist. The warm, garlicky aroma draws everyone in—get ready for these to disappear fast!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Garlic Bread Rolls are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for another two or three days. Just remember: the sooner you enjoy them, the better the flavor and texture!

Freezing

If you want to keep a stash ready for comforting cravings, freeze the fully baked and cooled rolls in a zip-top bag for up to two months. Wrap them in a layer of foil to ward off freezer burn. When the mood strikes, you’ll thank your past self for this delicious foresight!

Reheating

For the best results, reheat Garlic Bread Rolls in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered loosely with foil, until warmed through (about 10 minutes). This keeps them soft inside with a lightly crisped top. If you’re in a hurry, a few seconds in the microwave also revives their warmth and aroma—just don’t overdo it or they might become chewy.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Swap in an equal amount of instant yeast and skip the proofing step. Just mix it straight into the flour; your Garlic Bread Rolls will rise beautifully and you’ll shave a few minutes off the prep.

What’s the best way to mince garlic for maximum flavor?

For bold, even flavor, use a microplane or garlic press—these create a fine paste that disperses perfectly throughout the rolls. Chopping by hand works, too, just make sure the pieces are nice and small for even distribution.

Can I make Garlic Bread Rolls dairy-free?

Definitely! Swap out the milk for your favorite plant-based alternative (like unsweetened almond or oat milk) and use a vegan butter substitute. You’ll still get that luscious texture and garlicky punch without the dairy.

How do I get rolls with a super soft, fluffy texture?

The secret lies in thorough kneading and allowing enough time for both rises. Patience lets the yeast do its magic, so don’t rush the process. Also, measure your flour accurately to avoid a dense dough.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Of course! While parsley is classic, you can toss in chopped chives, thyme, oregano, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick. Personalize Garlic Bread Rolls to suit your taste and the occasion—it’s hard to go wrong!

Final Thoughts

Few things unite friends and family quite like the aroma and taste of homemade Garlic Bread Rolls fresh from the oven. This recipe is the kind you’ll want to pass on, revisit, and reinvent every time you want to treat yourself or someone you love. Trust me, these rolls are destined to be a crowd favorite—give them a try and watch them vanish!

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