There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Especially when that bread is infused with the delightful flavors of garlic and herbs. These Garlic Bread Rolls have been a cherished staple in my home for years, and I can’t wait to share my secrets with you. A hearty side for dinner, a standout at gatherings, or a comforting snack all by itself, these rolls are the embodiment of warmth and fond memories.
Why you’ll love this recipe
Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, buttery roll, only to discover the rich, garlicky goodness within. It’s like a hug from the inside! What makes this recipe special isn’t just the irresistible flavor, but also the way it brings people together. Whether you’re serving them alongside a cozy soup, a vibrant salad, or just munching on them alone, these rolls create a moment of indulgence.
Think about the delightful contrast of crispy exterior against the soft, fluffy inside. And don’t even get me started on that perfect garlicky drizzle that happens just after they come out of the oven. It’s a little like a culinary fairy tale where everything comes together to create something truly magical. Plus, these rolls are incredibly simple to make, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Trust me, once you pull them out of the oven and see everyone’s reaction, you’ll feel like a culinary rock star!
Gather these ingredients
Let’s bring the flavors to life! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful rolls:
-
4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter – This is where the richness begins! The butter adds a creamy depth and helps create that gorgeous golden crust.
-
2 tablespoons minced garlic – Fresh garlic is a game-changer! It brings that aromatic punch that makes these rolls unforgettable.
-
3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring) – The foundation of our roll, providing structure and chew.
-
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Not only does it add flavor, but that vibrant green garnish brightens everything up!
-
1 tablespoon granulated sugar – A dash of sweetness balances the savory and encourages a beautiful rise.
-
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast – The magic ingredient for soft, fluffy rolls. Instant yeast makes the process even easier since there’s no need for proofing.
-
1 teaspoon fine sea salt – Essential for elevating all the flavors! It’s the unsung hero in every bread recipe.
-
1 cup whole or 2% milk (warmed to 110°F) – The fat in the milk enhances the tenderness of the rolls, while the warmth helps activate the yeast.
-
1 large egg (room temperature) – This adds richness and acts as a binding agent.
-
1 beaten egg, for brushing the tops – A glossy finish that makes them look irresistible!
-
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for the garlic butter) – More of that rich goodness!
-
1 tablespoon minced garlic (for the garlic butter) – Because can you ever have too much garlic?
-
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for the garlic butter) – Adding this at the end gives a fresh pop of flavor and color.
-
Flaky sea salt (for finishing) – A sprinkle of this magic makes everything taste gourmet!
How this recipe comes together
Alright, let’s dive in! Start by lightly buttering the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan. Set that aside while you work your magic.
In a small pot, melt the 4 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic, and let it gently sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it releases a fragrant bouquet—oh yes, this is the good stuff. Once it’s fragrant, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly while you prep the rest.
In your stand mixing bowl, combine the flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt. Now, turn your attention to the liquid gold—the warmed milk! Pour it into the bowl along with the egg and the cooled garlic butter. It’s like a harmonious symphony of ingredients, ready to create something beautiful.
Knead that mixture on low speed with your dough hook for about 10-12 minutes. You want it to feel soft and tacky, but not overly sticky. If it clings to your fingers like a toddler on candy, sprinkle in more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable.
Once your dough looks smooth and feels perfect, it’s time to transform it. Cut it into 12 equal portions. You can get a kitchen scale for precision (around 67 grams each), or just eyeball it if you’re feeling adventurous! Shape each piece into a lovely ball, pinching the seam nicely underneath. The tighter the roll is, the fluffier it’ll turn out.
Place those little beauties in your prepared baking pan, cover them with wrap or a kitchen towel, and let them rise in a warm spot until they’re puffed up nicely—give it about 1-2 hours. Patience is key here.
While they rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Once they’re beautifully doubled in size, it’s time for the egg wash. Gently brush the tops with the beaten egg so they glisten in the oven.
Bake those rolls for 20-30 minutes until they’re golden brown. While they’re baking, whip up your garlic butter again by melting the remaining butter, sautéing more garlic, and stirring in that fresh parsley. As soon as the rolls sing with golden perfection out of the oven, give them a generous coat of garlic butter. And don’t forget to sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top for that gourmet touch!
What to serve it with
These Garlic Bread Rolls are like a culinary chameleon—they go perfectly with just about anything! Pair them with a hearty bowl of soup, a fresh salad, or enjoy them alongside your favorite pasta dish. Feel free to get creative: they make an excellent base for sliders too! And if you’re feeling fancy, serve them with a side of marinara or a herbed olive oil dip for a gourmet touch.
How to store and freeze
Not devouring all the rolls in one sitting? No worries! To keep your leftovers fresh, allow them to cool completely before wrapping them in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to save some for later, pop them in the freezer! Just place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven to bring back that heavenly softness.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way. First off, don’t rush the rising time. The longer it rises, the better the flavor and texture! Second, feel free to experiment with flavors: add some grated cheese into the dough for a cheesy surprise, or toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Last but not least, make a double batch! Trust me, you’ll want these rolls on hand at all times.
Creative Twists
Got some extra ingredients lying around? Let’s get creative! Swap out the parsley for chives or rosemary to tailor it to your taste. You could even fold in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. Want to cut down on carbs? Try using almond flour for a low-carb option. The possibilities are endless!
Common questions
- How long do these rolls stay fresh? You can store them at room temperature for up to two days. For longer shelf life, freeze them!
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Absolutely! Just note that the texture may change a bit. You might need to adjust the hydration slightly.
- What’s the best way to reheat the rolls? Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and warm them for about 10-15 minutes until they’re soft and lovely again.
- Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape it into rolls, and store them in the refrigerator overnight before letting them rise and baking.
- Are there vegan substitutions? You can replace the egg with a flax or chia egg and use plant-based butter and milk for a delightful vegan version.
In the end, making these Garlic Bread Rolls is more than just a recipe. It’s an experience—one filled with aromas, warmth, and a touch of love. I can’t wait for you to give these a try. So, roll up those sleeves, grab your apron, and dive in! Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions or if you try your own delicious twist on the recipe. Let’s create a community of food lovers who share the joy of baking!
Deliciously Garlicky Bread Rolls
Description
These Garlic Bread Rolls are soft, buttery, and packed with rich garlic flavor, perfect as a side dish or a snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set aside.
- Melt 4 1/2 tablespoons of butter in a small pot over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Pour warm milk into the dry mixture along with the egg and cooled garlic butter.
- Knead the dough on low speed with a dough hook for 10-12 minutes until soft and tacky.
- Cut the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each piece into a ball. Place them in the prepared pan.
- Cover rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for 1-2 hours in a warm place until puffed up.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) before baking.
- Brush the tops of rolls with the beaten egg.
- Bake the rolls for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Melt remaining butter, sauté more garlic, and stir in fresh parsley.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before serving.
Notes
- Letting the dough rise longer enhances flavor and texture.
