Introduction
There’s something magical about warm, homemade garlic bread — the aroma of garlic and butter drifting through the kitchen makes your mouth water before you even take the first bite. These Garlic Butter Rolls combine soft, fluffy dinner rolls with fresh garlic and herbs, then are brushed with rich garlic-herb butter after baking.
Perfect for holiday meals, cozy weeknights, or serving alongside soups, pasta, or roasted meats, these rolls are easy to make yet feel indulgent and bakery-style.
Why These Rolls Are Special
- Garlic in the Dough: Minced garlic is mixed directly into the dough for deep, integrated flavor.
- Herb Butter Finish: Fresh parsley and melted garlic butter make the tops irresistible.
- Soft & Fluffy Texture: Properly kneaded dough and a good rise create light, airy rolls.
- Make-Ahead & Freezable: Shape ahead, refrigerate overnight, or freeze baked rolls.
- Simple Yet Impressive: A bakery-style roll that’s easy to make at home.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup warmed milk (whole or 2%)
- ¼ cup melted garlic butter
- 1 large whole egg
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
For Brushing
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1–2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare Garlic Butter
Melt butter, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then let cool slightly.
2. Make the Dough
Combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and parsley. Add milk, melted garlic butter, and whole egg. Knead until smooth and slightly tacky (~10–12 minutes). Add a little flour if too sticky.
3. Shape the Rolls
Divide dough into 12 equal pieces, shape into balls, and place in a greased pan. Cover and let rise until doubled (~1–2 hours).
4. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush rolls with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake 20–30 minutes until golden brown.
5. Brush with Garlic Herb Butter
While hot, brush melted garlic butter with parsley over the rolls. Sprinkle flaky salt if desired.
Tips
- Use a stand mixer for consistent kneading.
- Divide dough with a kitchen scale for even rolls.
- Let dough rise fully for soft, fluffy rolls.
- Brush generously with butter immediately after baking.
- Sprinkle flaky salt for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store 2–3 days in an airtight container.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled rolls for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Warm covered with foil in the oven or microwave with a damp paper towel.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, but whole or 2% milk gives the best softness.
Can I skip garlic in the dough?
You can, but flavor will rely only on the butter brushed on top.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, fold ¼ cup shredded Parmesan into the dough or sprinkle on top.
Why did my rolls turn dense?
Likely causes: too much flour, insufficient kneading, or short rise.
How to soften dry rolls?
Reheat covered with butter in the oven or microwave with a damp paper towel.
Final Thoughts
These Garlic Butter Rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with garlic flavor. Perfect for family meals, holidays, or anytime you crave fresh, warm bread with a buttery, herby finish.