Absolutely nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread, especially when it’s infused with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. These garlic butter bread rolls are your ticket to comfort food heaven, combining soft, fluffy interiors with a crispy, buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion, these rolls are sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of garlic and butter creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
- Using warm milk in the dough ensures the rolls are soft and fluffy.
- Brushing the rolls with garlic butter before and after baking doubles the deliciousness.
- The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- These rolls are versatile and can be served with almost any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for garlic butter)
Equipment Needed
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (optional)
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together, then increase to medium speed and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This is the perfect time to mince your garlic and chop the parsley for the garlic butter topping.
Step 3: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the rolls are rising, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. This will be brushed on the rolls before and after baking for that irresistible garlic butter flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Brush the risen rolls with half of the garlic butter mixture. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and immediately brush with the remaining garlic butter. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
For an even more flavorful dough, try infusing the warm milk with a couple of garlic cloves before adding it to the dry ingredients. This adds a subtle garlic flavor throughout the entire roll. If you’re short on time, you can use rapid-rise yeast to cut down on rising time. Always make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. For a crispier crust, you can brush the rolls with an egg wash before baking instead of the garlic butter. And finally, if you love cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top of the rolls after the final garlic butter brush for a cheesy twist.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Add 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to the dough for a cheesy version.
- Herb-Infused Rolls: Mix in 1 tbsp of dried Italian herbs into the dough for an herby flavor.
- Spicy Garlic Rolls: Add 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Whole Wheat Rolls: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Sweet Garlic Rolls: Add 1 tbsp of honey to the dough for a slightly sweet version that pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then punch it down and store it in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature, shape the rolls, and proceed with the second rise and baking. This is a great time-saver for holiday meals.
Can I freeze the baked rolls?
Yes, these rolls freeze beautifully. Once completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
What can I serve with these garlic butter bread rolls?
These rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served with just about anything. They’re perfect alongside pasta dishes, soups, salads, or even as part of a holiday feast. They also make a great appetizer when served with marinara sauce for dipping.
Summary
These garlic butter bread rolls are the epitome of comfort food, combining soft, fluffy interiors with a crispy, buttery crust. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on their own, these rolls are guaranteed to delight.
