Garlic Bread Rolls

There’s something irresistibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked garlic bread rolls wafting through the kitchen. I remember the first time I made them; I had guests over for dinner, and the moment I pulled the rolls out of the oven, everyone gathered around, asking what was baking. The warm, buttery aroma filled the room, sparking smiles and a little bit of hunger pangs. As I watched my family and friends enjoy these soft, garlicky delights, I realized that food is more than just nourishment; it’s a way to connect, share moments, and create memories.

These garlic bread rolls are not only a treat for the taste buds but are also relatively simple to make. Whether you’re serving them with pasta or enjoying them on their own with a dab of garlic butter, they are guaranteed to win over everyone at the table. Plus, they make the perfect accompaniment to any meal, transforming an ordinary dinner into something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These garlic bread rolls are fluffy, flavorful, and downright addictive. With a perfect balance of buttery goodness and the zing of garlic, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. They’re easy to make and can elevate any meal, making them a go-to recipe for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or just a cozy night in.

How to make Garlic Bread Rolls

Ingredients

• 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup whole or 2% milk (warmed to 110°F)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 beaten egg (for brushing the tops)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for garlic butter)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (for garlic butter)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garlic butter)
• Flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Directions

1. Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set it aside.
2. In a small pot, melt the 4 1/2 tablespoons of butter and add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant. Take it off the heat and let it cool while you measure the other ingredients.
3. In a stand mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon sea salt. Add the warmed milk, 1 egg, and the cooled garlic butter. Knead on low speed with the dough hook until the dough is smooth and soft, about 10-12 minutes. If sticky, add one tablespoon of flour at a time until you have a workable dough.
4. Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal portions (about 67 grams each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball, pinching the seams tightly. Place the balls into the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and set them in a warm place to rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
6. Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg wash. Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown on top.
7. While the rolls bake, make the garlic butter. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pot and add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the remaining parsley. When the rolls come out of the oven, brush them with the garlic butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm!

Tips to Make Garlic Bread Rolls

• Make sure the milk is warmed to around 110°F for the yeast to activate properly.
• If your dough is too sticky as you knead it, it’s okay to add a bit more flour, but try not to add too much; you want a soft texture.
• For an extra touch, keep the garlic butter warm and brush it on right before serving for a burst of flavor.

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

These rolls are fantastic for serving alongside your favorite pasta dishes, soups, or salads. You can even serve them as a delightful snack on their own with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

How to Store Garlic Bread Rolls

To keep leftover rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Reheat in the oven to restore softness.

Variation

You can customize these rolls by adding cheese to the dough or mixing in other herbs like rosemary or thyme for a twist on the classic garlic flavor.

FAQs About Garlic Bread Rolls

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
   Yes, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water for about 5-10 minutes before adding it to the mixture.

2. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can make the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it, allowing it to rise slowly overnight.

3. What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
   You can use garlic powder as a substitute, but fresh garlic gives a much better flavor.

4. Can these rolls be made gluten-free?
   Yes, by substituting a gluten-free flour blend, though you may need to adjust the liquid amounts accordingly. Be sure to check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free.

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