Garlic Bread Rolls

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Introduction

Garlic Bread Rolls are the ultimate savory comfort food that elevates any meal with their pillowy softness and bold garlic flavor. These rolls strike the perfect balance between fluffy interior and golden-brown, slightly crisp crust, all brushed with a rich garlic butter that’s infused with fresh parsley and a hint of salt. Each bite is a mouthful of warm, garlicky bliss.

These rolls hold a special place in my kitchen because they’re my go-to for gatherings or just cozy family dinners. The aroma of freshly baked bread mingled with roasted garlic is enough to make the entire house feel welcoming. They’re the kind of bread you can’t resist tearing into straight from the oven. The garlic butter seeps into every nook and cranny, creating a roll that’s flavorful through and through.

Garlic Bread Rolls are perfect for pairing with soups, pastas, or stews, but they’re just as amazing eaten solo or dipped into marinara sauce. When served warm, they practically melt in your mouth. If you’re looking for a side dish that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds (or thirds), these rolls are the ones to bake!

Perfect for:

  • Pasta night
  • Soups and stews
  • Family gatherings
  • Holiday dinners
  • Casual entertaining

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Soft and Fluffy Texture: Perfectly soft interior with a golden crust for the ultimate garlic bread experience.
  • Versatile: Pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes.
  • Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped ahead and baked fresh or frozen for later.
  • Kid-Friendly: A surefire hit for kids who love bread with a buttery twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes rising time)
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 12 rolls
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 180 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Carbohydrates: 24g, Fat: 7g, Protein: 4g

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:
    • 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • ¾ cup warm water (100°F to 110°F)
    • ½ cup milk, warmed
    • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • For the Garlic Butter Topping:
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
    • Salt to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and softness to the rolls.
  • Yeast: Helps the dough rise, giving the rolls their light, airy texture.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for bold, aromatic flavor.
  • Butter: Adds richness and enhances the garlic flavor for a classic garlic bread experience.
  • Parsley: Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish to balance the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  2. Add Liquids: Gradually mix in warm water, warm milk, and melted butter. Stir until a rough dough forms.
  3. Knead: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape the Rolls:

  1. Shape Dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
  2. Second Rise: Place the rolls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy.

Bake the Rolls:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake: Bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Prepare the Garlic Butter:

  1. Make Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in parsley and a pinch of salt.
  2. Brush Rolls: Brush the hot rolls with garlic butter as soon as they come out of the oven.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Garlic Bread Rolls can be served in various ways to complement your meal:

  • Classic Side Dish: Serve alongside pasta dishes, lasagna, or spaghetti for a traditional pairing.
  • With Soups: Pair with tomato soup, minestrone, or creamy mushroom soup.
  • Salad Companion: Serve with a fresh Caesar salad or Greek salad.
  • Appetizer: Slice rolls in half, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly for an easy appetizer.
  • Breakfast Rolls: Enjoy with scrambled eggs or spread with butter and jam for a morning treat.

Additional Tips

  • Activate the Yeast: Ensure the water and milk are warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead until just smooth to keep the rolls soft and fluffy.
  • Garlic Butter Timing: Brush the rolls with garlic butter while they’re still hot for maximum absorption.
  • Customize the Herbs: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the garlic butter for extra flavor.
  • Freezing Rolls: Freeze baked rolls in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for fresh-tasting rolls anytime.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations to try with your Garlic Bread Rolls:

  1. Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking.
  2. Herb Infused Rolls: Add dried Italian herbs to the dough for a herbed flavor.
  3. Whole Wheat Garlic Rolls: Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier, more wholesome version.
  4. Gluten-Free Rolls: Substitute gluten-free flour and adjust liquid as needed.
  5. Garlic and Chive Rolls: Add fresh chives to the garlic butter for a mild onion flavor.
  6. Spicy Garlic Rolls: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
  7. Lemon Garlic Rolls: Add lemon zest to the butter for a bright, citrusy twist.
  8. Garlic Knot Rolls: Shape the dough into knots before baking for a fun presentation.
  9. Stuffed Garlic Rolls: Fill each roll with a cube of cheese or sautéed mushrooms before baking.
  10. Vegan Garlic Rolls: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for a vegan version.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Baked rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
  • Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment

Here are some tools to make preparing Garlic Bread Rolls easier:

  1. Large Mixing Bowl: Provides ample space for combining and rising the dough without overflowing.
  2. Stand Mixer: Speeds up the kneading process with a dough hook, ensuring the dough develops proper elasticity.
  3. Baking Sheet: Ensures even heat distribution, resulting in rolls with a golden, crisp crust.
  4. Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying garlic butter or egg wash evenly across the rolls for added flavor and shine.
  5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient proportions, leading to consistent dough texture and taste.
  6. Dough Scraper: Divides the dough into uniform portions easily and helps in transferring dough without sticking.
  7. Cooling Rack: Elevates the rolls to allow air circulation, ensuring they cool evenly without becoming soggy underneath.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
    Yes, just dissolve it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dry ingredients.
  2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
    Yes, refrigerate the dough after the first rise and bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
  3. What’s the best way to reheat garlic bread rolls?
    Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore their freshness and warmth.
  4. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
    Yes, substitute ½ teaspoon of garlic powder for fresh garlic if needed.
  5. Why didn’t my rolls rise?
    Ensure your yeast is fresh and the liquids were at the right temperature (around 100-110°F).
  6. How can I make the rolls softer?
    Add a little extra milk or butter for an even softer texture.
  7. Can I use whole wheat flour?
    Yes, substitute up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more wholesome version.
  8. How do I prevent the rolls from being too dense?
    Don’t over-knead the dough, and allow adequate rising time for light, airy rolls.
  9. What can I add for extra flavor?
    Try adding grated cheese, minced herbs, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough for more flavor.
  10. Can I make these vegan?
    Yes, use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk to make the rolls vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

Garlic Bread Rolls are a simple yet irresistible way to elevate any meal with their golden crust and rich, garlicky aroma. The pillowy soft interior, paired with the buttery garlic coating, delivers a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness in every bite.

What truly sets these rolls apart is their versatility—perfect as a side to soups, pastas, or salads, or as a stand-alone snack when served warm with a marinara dip or herbed butter. You can also add a twist with cheese fillings or fresh herbs to make them uniquely yours.

Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or just a cozy night in, Garlic Bread Rolls are sure to become a staple. I can’t wait for you to enjoy them! Share your creations and tag me—I’d love to see how you put your own spin on this classic comfort food. Enjoy every warm, garlicky bite!

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