Garlic Bread Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Bread Rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor. The garlic butter coating creates a golden, crispy exterior, while the inside remains light and airy. They’re easy to make, and the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs filling your kitchen will make everyone hungry. These rolls are perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to holiday feasts, and are guaranteed to complement a wide range of dishes.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

• 3/4 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup milk

For the garlic butter:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the dough:

• In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

• In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and milk. Stir until a dough forms.

• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Shape the rolls:

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces.

• Roll each piece into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they are close together but not touching.

• Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

3. Prepare the garlic butter:

• While the rolls are rising, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic, parsley, and salt, stirring occasionally. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.

• Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Bake the rolls:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.

5. Brush with garlic butter:

• As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat the tops and edges well.

• Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. You can also drizzle any leftover garlic butter on top for extra flavor.

6. Serve:

• Serve the garlic bread rolls warm and enjoy their soft, buttery, and garlicky goodness!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 12 rolls.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes two rising times)

• Cook Time: 18 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 3 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Bread Rolls: Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the rolls before baking for a cheesy twist.

• Herb variations: Add other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the garlic butter for additional flavor.

• Garlic breadsticks: Roll the dough into sticks instead of balls, brush with garlic butter, and bake for a different shape.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover garlic bread rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to warm them through.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply add it directly to the flour mixture without proofing it in water first.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

3. How can I make the rolls fluffier?

For extra fluffiness, make sure to knead the dough well and let it rise long enough. The second rise in the pan is crucial for fluffy rolls.

4. Can I freeze these garlic bread rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

5. Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the dough and garlic butter to avoid over-seasoning.

6. Can I add more garlic to the butter mixture?

Absolutely! If you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount of garlic in the butter mixture to your taste.

7. Can I make the dough without a mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand. Just be sure to knead it for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

8. Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to make the dough. Follow your bread machine’s instructions for making dough, and then proceed with shaping and baking the rolls.

9. Can I use a different kind of bread for the dough?

While this recipe works best with a simple dough made from flour, water, and yeast, you could try using whole wheat flour or adding in some herbs to the dough for added flavor.

10. How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy after adding the garlic butter?

The key is to brush the garlic butter on the rolls immediately after baking. If you wait too long, the rolls may absorb the butter too quickly, making them soggy. You can also serve the butter on the side as a dipping sauce to keep the rolls crisp.

Conclusion

Garlic Bread Rolls are a perfect addition to any meal, combining the warmth of freshly baked bread with the irresistible flavors of garlic and butter. Soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and bursting with savory goodness, these rolls are a delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Easy to make and customizable, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite.

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