Herb & Garlic Swirl Rolls

Herb & Garlic Swirl Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering the perfect blend of buttery softness, fragrant herbs, and rich garlic flavor. These rolls are swirled with a savory herb-garlic mixture, creating a beautiful, spiral pattern that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Ideal for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special occasions, these rolls bring homemade comfort to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of fresh herbs and garlic creates a savory filling that bursts with flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Pairing: These rolls pair well with soups, salads, pasta dishes, or even as a stand-alone snack.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture: The dough is tender and airy, thanks to the careful proofing process, giving you bakery-quality results.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the filling to include your favorite herbs or cheese for a unique twist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These rolls can be prepared in advance, making them a stress-free addition to any meal plan.
• Perfect for Sharing: The pull-apart design makes them an ideal centerpiece for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Active dry yeast
• Warm water
• Whole milk
• Unsalted butter
• Salt
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh parsley
• Fresh thyme
• Fresh rosemary
• Olive oil

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, a pinch of sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Warm milk slightly (not hot), then mix it with melted butter. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients.
4. Add the yeast mixture to the bowl and stir to form a sticky dough.
5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours in a warm spot, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Herb & Garlic Filling

1. Finely chop the garlic, parsley, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Heat olive oil in a small pan over low heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped herbs. Let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
2. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches, on a floured surface.
3. Spread the herb and garlic mixture evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
5. Slice the log into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish, spiral side up.

Step 4: Second Rise and Bake

1. Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise for another 30–40 minutes until puffy.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
4. Brush the warm rolls with melted butter for a glossy finish.

Variations

• Cheesy Herb Swirl Rolls: Add shredded parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar to the filling for a cheesy twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum.
• Herb Substitutions: Swap the parsley, thyme, or rosemary with dill, basil, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan-Friendly: Replace milk with a plant-based alternative and use vegan butter.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12 rolls
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the rolls in a 350°F oven for 5–10 minutes, or microwave individual rolls for 20–30 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

What type of yeast should I use?

Active dry yeast works best, but you can substitute it with instant yeast by skipping the proofing step.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for a more relaxed preparation.

How can I make the rolls extra soft?

Ensure the dough is well-kneaded, avoid over-baking, and brush them with butter after baking.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, use one-third the amount of dried herbs since they are more concentrated.

Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Absolutely! Try adding chili flakes, lemon zest, or a touch of honey for unique variations.

Why didn’t my rolls rise properly?

Ensure your yeast is active and that the rising environment is warm enough.

How do I keep the rolls from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment paper or grease the pan well with butter or oil.

Can I make smaller or larger rolls?

Yes, adjust the slicing size and monitor the baking time accordingly.

What should I serve these rolls with?

They go well with soups, salads, roasted meats, or pasta dishes.

How can I ensure even baking?

Arrange the rolls evenly in the pan with enough space to expand, and rotate the pan halfway through baking.

Conclusion

Herb & Garlic Swirl Rolls are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the comforting aroma and taste of fresh-baked bread. Their fluffy texture, savory herb-infused filling, and golden, buttery crust make them the ultimate side dish or snack. With easy customization options and a straightforward preparation process, these rolls are perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Bring the joy of homemade bread to your table by trying this recipe today!

Print