Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

Imagine pulling apart a batch of pillowy, golden Garlic Bread Rolls—each fluffy swirl bursting with fragrant garlic butter and flecks of parsley, with a crown of parmesan that delivers the perfect cheesy crunch. These rolls are a showstopper at any gathering, but easy enough to make for a cozy family night. Whether you’re dunking them into your favorite soup or letting them shine as the main event, Garlic Bread Rolls are bound to become your new staple for feel-good, homemade comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed how a handful of pantry basics can transform into something so spectacular; each ingredient plays a starring role here. From strong bread flour building the irresistible chewy texture to fresh garlic infusing that classic flavor, nothing is wasted. Gather these fresh and familiar items—you’re about to treat yourself.

• Strong white bread flour: Essential for that stretchy, fluffy texture; look for “strong” or “bread” flour to help your dough rise beautifully.
• Dried active yeast: Gives your Garlic Bread Rolls their signature rise and that lovely, airy crumb.
• Caster sugar: Just a touch to help activate the yeast and give a hint of sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (cold & cubed): Worked into the dough for a tender crumb, and used again for that luscious garlic filling.
• Full fat milk: Adds richness and helps create a soft, supple dough—don’t skimp on the fat here!
• Medium egg: The secret to color and structure in your rolls—they’ll be beautiful and golden.
• Sea salt: Elevates the other flavors and balances the richness of butter and cheese.
• More unsalted butter (melted): Ready to soak up all the garlic and herbs for your irresistible filling.
• Garlic cloves (finely chopped): The bold heart of these rolls—use at least four, or more if you’re a garlic lover!
• Dried mixed herbs: Lends classic Italian flavor to the filling, making it taste like the best bread basket at your favorite restaurant.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Sprinkled for color and a pop of herby brightness both inside and on top.
• Parmesan cheese (grated): Melts into the filling and creates a golden, savory crust.

How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Sift your bread flour into a large mixing bowl and add the caster sugar, dried active yeast, and sea salt. Give it all a good stir so everything is evenly distributed. This foundation is what helps your Garlic Bread Rolls rise tall and bake into soft, tender layers.

Step 2: Incorporate the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, gently rub the butter until it looks like coarse breadcrumbs. This moment is what makes your rolls incredibly tender and moist—just like the best scones!

Step 3: Warm the Milk

Pour your milk into a small saucepan and gently heat until it’s just warm—think about the gentle steam you see before a simmer. Warm milk helps the yeast bloom, giving your dough a head start for fluffy, cloud-like rolls.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Crack the egg into your bowl, pour the warm milk over, and mix everything together. At first, it might seem sticky and chaotic, but as you knead for 7-10 minutes (by hand or using a dough hook attachment), the dough will become smooth, springy, and glorious to touch.

Step 5: First Rise

Pop the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover snugly with cling film, and let it rise at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. When it’s doubled in size, get excited—you’re halfway to Garlic Bread Roll magic.

Step 6: Prep the Garlic Filling

While your dough is rising, finely chop the garlic and parsley for the filling. Melt the butter and mix in the garlic, then line up the dried herbs, sea salt, parsley, and parmesan so you’re ready to fill and roll as soon as the dough is ready.

Step 7: Roll Out and Fill the Dough

Transfer your airy dough onto a floured work surface and roll it into a big, thin rectangle (about 50cm by 30cm). Brush on the buttery garlic mixture, then scatter with mixed herbs, salt, parsley, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan.

Step 8: Shape and Slice the Rolls

Roll the dough up from the long edge into a tight swirl, creating a gorgeous log. Divide it into 12 even pieces—a trick is to halve it, halve those pieces, then split each section into three for uniform rolls. Try to be gentle so the filling stays trapped in every layer.

Step 9: Second Rise

Line up the rolls in a large, rectangular baking dish (about 30cm x 24cm) with four rows of three. They won’t be touching yet, but after another hour rising (covered), they’ll puff up and gently press up against each other—ready for baking.

Step 10: Bake to Golden Perfection

As the second rise finishes, preheat your oven to 180C (160C fan). Slide your dish into the hot oven and let the magic happen for 20 to 25 minutes. The top should go gorgeously golden, and the air will be thick with the smell of garlic and cheese.

Step 11: Garnish and Enjoy

Let the rolls cool slightly, then scatter with more fresh parsley and parmesan for good looks and extra punch. Your Garlic Bread Rolls are ready to devour!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garnishes

A final shower of chopped fresh parsley and a handful of grated parmesan make these rolls look bakery-special. For a pretty finish and extra flavor, you can even drizzle a touch more melted butter right before serving.

Side Dishes

Serve Garlic Bread Rolls alongside tomato soup for dunking, a crisp Caesar salad, or make them the star next to a simple pasta dinner. They’re especially welcome at holiday gatherings and comfort food feasts—perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Pile the rolls high in a basket lined with a cloth napkin, or arrange them in a circular pattern on a platter. For parties, break apart the rolls and serve with flavored butters or dipping oils. Stacked or spiraled, they’ll steal the show at any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Bread Rolls keep beautifully! Wrap the rolls tightly in foil or an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to four days. They’ll still taste freshly baked with a quick warm-up.

Freezing

Once baked and cooled, Garlic Bread Rolls freeze wonderfully—just pop them into a freezer bag, squeeze out the air, and freeze for up to three months. When you crave a little garlic comfort, they’re ready and waiting!

Reheating

To revive that fluffy texture and golden crust, cover the rolls loosely with foil and warm in the oven at 160C for about 10 minutes (longer if reheating from frozen). Or, for a speedy snack, a quick zap in the microwave works great.

FAQs

Can I make Garlic Bread Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it do its first rise overnight in the fridge. Bring the dough to room temperature, continue with the filling, shaping, and final rise, then bake as usual.

What’s the best way to keep Garlic Bread Rolls soft?

The secret is storing them tightly wrapped in foil or plastic once cooled, and keeping them away from drafts or air exposure. A quick warm-in-the-oven refresh will make them taste bakery-fresh again.

Can I use instant yeast instead of dried active yeast?

Yes, you can swap in the same amount of instant yeast and skip the step of proving—you can add it directly to the flour. Your Garlic Bread Rolls will rise a bit faster, so keep an eye on the dough doubled stage.

Are Garlic Bread Rolls suitable for freezing before baking?

Definitely! Shape and slice your rolls, then arrange them in the dish, cover well, and freeze. Let them thaw and rise for a few hours before baking as normal for fresh-from-the-oven rolls any time.

Can I substitute the parmesan with another cheese?

Feel free to experiment! Grated mozzarella or sharp cheddar works for a gooier, cheesier finish, or try a mix for extra oomph. Just avoid super soft cheeses that release too much moisture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to brighten up your next meal, nothing beats the aroma and flavor of fresh Garlic Bread Rolls. Give them a try—they’re easier than you think and sure to win instant fans at your table!

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