Garlic bread rolls are the ultimate combination of soft, fluffy bread and the rich, savory goodness of garlic butter. Perfectly golden on the outside and irresistibly tender on the inside, these rolls are the ideal accompaniment to pasta dishes, soups, or salads. Their buttery garlic flavor, enhanced with fresh herbs, makes them a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic bread rolls are a versatile side dish or snack that checks all the boxes for comfort food lovers. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

1. Simple Yet Gourmet: With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s straight out of an artisan bakery.
2. Perfect for Any Meal: These rolls pair wonderfully with hearty dishes like lasagna or light options like a Caesar salad.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences.
4. Crowd Favorite: Whether for family dinners or special gatherings, these rolls never fail to impress.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance or freeze extras for quick and easy future meals.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Warm water
• Active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Fresh garlic
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley or other herbs (optional)
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast:
   Start by combining warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
3. Knead the Dough:
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
4. First Rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls:
   Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into equal portions and shape each piece into a ball. Arrange the dough balls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them for expansion.
6. Second Rise:
   Cover the rolls and let them rise again for about 30–45 minutes until they’ve puffed up slightly and filled in the gaps.
7. Prepare Garlic Butter:
   While the rolls are rising, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley or other herbs.
8. Bake the Rolls:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring you get some garlic bits on each one. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
9. Final Touch:
   As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them with more garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Add shredded mozzarella inside each dough ball for a gooey surprise.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with rosemary, thyme, or oregano in the garlic butter for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend and adjust the liquid as needed.
• Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine or olive oil, and ensure the Parmesan (if used) is plant-based.
• Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for a hint of heat.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (active)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Additional Rise Time: 2–3 hours
• Total Time: 3–4 hours
• Servings: 12 rolls

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes. For extra moisture, brush them with a little melted butter before reheating.

FAQs

What type of yeast should I use?

Active dry yeast is recommended, but instant yeast also works. If using instant yeast, you can skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the rolls may be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a softer texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping the rolls.

How do I ensure my garlic butter doesn’t burn?

Cook the garlic over low heat and remove it from the heat as soon as it becomes fragrant. Burnt garlic can taste bitter.

Can I add cheese to the recipe?

Yes! Parmesan, mozzarella, or even cheddar can be added either on top or inside the rolls for added flavor.

How do I prevent the rolls from sticking together?

Make sure to leave space between the dough balls during the second rise. Using a well-greased baking dish also helps.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, dried herbs work well. Use about half the amount compared to fresh herbs, as they’re more concentrated in flavor.

What’s the best way to thaw frozen rolls?

Thaw them at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the rolls soggy.

How can I make them fluffier?

Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the dough rises in a warm, draft-free environment. Over-kneading can also make the rolls dense, so knead just until smooth.

Are these rolls suitable for a bread machine?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to knead the dough. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dough preparation.

Conclusion

Garlic bread rolls are a timeless classic that bring comfort and flavor to any meal. Their tender texture, rich buttery taste, and customizable options make them a must-try for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty dinner or enjoying them as a standalone snack, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give them a try, and watch them disappear from the table in no time!

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