Best Garlic Bread Rolls

Introduction

Looking for that perfect side to impress your dinner guests or elevate a cozy family meal? Say hello to Garlic Bread Rolls — soft, buttery, golden brown rolls bursting with garlicky goodness. They’re everything you love about garlic bread and dinner rolls wrapped up in one delicious bite. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays or just need a foolproof bread roll for pasta night, this recipe has your back.

Garlic Bread Rolls

Reasons to Love This Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

Why are these rolls getting all the attention? Here’s why:

  • They’re soft and pillowy, not dry or crumbly.

  • You get garlic in every bite—inside the dough and brushed on top.

  • Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

  • Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

  • They smell like heaven when baking—who doesn’t love that?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep things simple and flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • All-purpose flour – The foundation for that soft, fluffy texture.

  • Instant yeast – No need to proof, just toss it in and go.

  • Granulated sugar – Just a bit to help activate the yeast.

  • Fine sea salt – For balance and flavor.

  • Fresh garlic – The real star of the show.

  • Unsalted butter – Adds richness; we’ll use it in the dough and garlic butter.

  • Whole or 2% milk – Warmed to help activate the yeast and tenderize the dough.

  • Large egg – For structure and richness.

  • Fresh parsley – Brings color and herby freshness.

  • Beaten egg – For that glossy golden finish.

  • Flaky sea salt – Optional but makes the rolls feel extra fancy.

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

Want to mix things up? Try these:

  • No instant yeast? Use active dry yeast, just remember to proof it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar.

  • No parsley? Swap in fresh thyme, oregano, or even chives.

  • Want a sweeter touch? Sub honey or maple syrup for the sugar.

  • No dairy? Try oat milk and plant-based butter—just make sure they’re unsweetened.

  • Add cheese. Sprinkle grated parmesan or mozzarella inside or on top for a cheesy twist.

Garlic Bread Rolls

Tools You’ll Need

No fancy equipment necessary, but here’s what makes life easier:

  • Stand mixer with dough hook

  • Mixing bowls

  • 9×13 baking pan

  • Measuring cups or, better yet, a kitchen scale

  • Silicone brush

  • Small saucepan

  • Plastic wrap or clean towel

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making garlic bread rolls is easier than you might think. Follow these steps and you’ll be baking like a pro in no time.

Step 1: Make the Garlic Butter

Melt the butter in a small saucepan, toss in the minced garlic, and let it cook just until it smells amazing—about 1–2 minutes. Take it off the heat and let it cool while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of your stand mixer, whisk together the flour, parsley, sugar, salt, and yeast. Make sure everything is evenly distributed before moving on.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Add the warm milk, room-temperature egg, and cooled garlic butter to the dry mix. Use the dough hook and knead on low speed until it forms a soft, smooth dough ball. It should be tacky but not sticky. This takes around 10–12 minutes.

If you’re kneading by hand, you’ll need some elbow grease and a bit more time—15 to 20 minutes should do it.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (about 67g each if you’re using a scale). Roll each piece into a tight ball by cupping your hand around it and gently rotating until smooth. Place them in a buttered 9×13 pan.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and set it somewhere warm. Let the rolls rise until they’ve doubled in size. This usually takes 1–2 hours. Don’t rush this step—it’s key for that pillowy texture.

Step 6: Bake and Finish with Garlic Butter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with a beaten egg for that golden finish. Bake for 20–30 minutes until beautifully golden.

While they’re still warm from the oven, brush the tops with your fresh garlic herb butter. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and serve immediately. You’re about to become the family favorite.

What to Serve with Garlic Bread Rolls

These rolls are versatile enough to go with just about anything. Try them with:

  • Spaghetti Bolognese

  • Creamy tomato soup

  • Roast chicken and vegetables

  • A big ol’ holiday spread (Thanksgiving, anyone?)

  • Dips like spinach artichoke or marinara

Garlic Bread Rolls

How to Store Garlic Bread Rolls

They’re best eaten the day they’re baked, but if you’ve got leftovers:

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

  • Avoid refrigerating — it can dry them out.

  • Refresh before serving by warming in the oven or microwave.

Can I Freeze Garlic Bread Rolls?

Absolutely!

  • Let baked rolls cool completely.

  • Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

  • Freeze for up to 1 month.

  • To reheat, bake covered in foil at 350°F until warm or microwave for 30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! After shaping the rolls, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temp and double in size before baking.

Q2: What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No worries—knead the dough by hand. It’ll just take a bit longer and more muscle.

Q3: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Sure, but fresh gives the best flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon garlic powder as a sub.

Q4: Can I add cheese to the dough?
Totally. A handful of shredded cheese in the dough or sprinkled on top adds an awesome twist.

Q5: Why are my rolls dense?
It’s likely too much flour or not enough rising time. Use a scale and be patient with the proof!

Two Resources

Nutritional Information

(Per roll, approx.)

  • Calories: 210

  • Fat: 9g

  • Saturated Fat: 5g

  • Carbohydrates: 27g

  • Sugar: 2g

  • Protein: 5g

  • Sodium: 210mg

Keep in mind, these values may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Conclusion

Homemade Garlic Bread Rolls aren’t just delicious—they’re a warm, garlicky hug in bread form. With their fluffy insides and buttery tops, they’re sure to steal the spotlight at any table. Whether you’re baking for a big family dinner or just craving a little extra comfort, this recipe delivers. So grab your garlic, warm up that oven, and let’s get rolling!

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Garlic Bread Rolls

Best Garlic Bread Rolls


  • Author: sellie
  • Total Time: 35min
  • Yield: 12 rolls
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Looking for that perfect side to impress your dinner guests or elevate a cozy family meal? Say hello to Garlic Bread Rolls — soft, buttery, golden brown rolls bursting with garlicky goodness. They’re everything you love about garlic bread and dinner rolls wrapped up in one delicious bite. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays or just need a foolproof bread roll for pasta night, this recipe has your back.


Ingredients

To whip up these heavenly garlic bread rolls, grab the following ingredients:

  • Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor; use high-quality butter if possible.

  • Fresh garlic cloves: The real deal—minced finely for full impact.

  • All-purpose flour: Reliable and gives the rolls the perfect structure.

  • Fresh parsley: Brings color and a hint of earthiness.

  • Granulated sugar: Helps with yeast activation and adds balance.

  • Instant yeast: Speeds up the rise without needing activation.

  • Sea salt: Enhances flavor.

  • Whole milk: Warmed to activate yeast and give richness.

  • Large egg: Binds the dough and improves texture.

  • Egg wash: For that irresistible golden crust.

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

  • Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh oregano, rosemary, or thyme.

  • Cheese: Add shredded parmesan or mozzarella inside or on top for extra indulgence.

  • Honey or maple syrup: Can replace sugar for a subtle sweetness.

  • Active dry yeast: If that’s all you have, activate it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar before mixing.


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook until it sizzles and the garlic turns fragrant. Take it off the heat and let it cool.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine flour, sugar, salt, yeast, and parsley in the bowl of a stand mixer. Give it a quick whisk to distribute everything evenly.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the warm milk, cooled garlic butter, and one large egg. Start kneading on low using the dough hook until the dough pulls away from the bowl and feels soft and slightly tacky. This should take about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Divide and Shape

Split the dough into 12 equal portions—using a kitchen scale helps keep things consistent. Shape each portion into a ball by tucking the edges under and rolling gently under your palm.

Step 5: First Rise

Arrange the balls in the greased baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise in a warm spot until they double in size. Depending on your room temperature, this can take 1 to 2 hours.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush each roll gently with the beaten egg. Pop them into a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Final Touch of Garlic Butter

While the rolls are still hot, brush the tops generously with more melted garlic butter and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Serve immediately for the best experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Pre-minced or jarred garlic won’t deliver the same punch or aroma as fresh cloves sautéed in butter.

  • Measure your flour properly. Too much flour will make the rolls dry and dense. For best results, use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method.

  • Prep Time: 15min
  • Cook Time: 20min
  • Category: Bread, Appetizer, Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 190kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg

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