If you love the irresistible aroma of fresh-baked bread with a garlicky twist, then you’re in for a real treat with this Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe. These soft, fluffy rolls boast a perfect balance of buttery garlic flavor, fresh parsley, and just the right touch of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty pasta dinner or enjoying them as a snack, these rolls are the ultimate comfort food that never fails to impress. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward steps makes this recipe a total winner for both beginner and seasoned bakers looking to add a little magic to their bread basket.

Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking these delicious garlic bread rolls. Each component is carefully chosen to create that soft texture, rich flavor, and golden crust that makes this recipe such a joy to eat.

All-purpose flour (3 cups): Provides the structure and base of the dough, giving the rolls their soft yet sturdy texture.
Sugar (1 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast to help the dough rise beautifully and adds a subtle hint of sweetness.
Active dry yeast (1 packet / 2 1/4 teaspoons): The essential leavening agent that makes the dough fluffy and airy.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness in the dough.
Warm milk (1 cup, about 110°F): Activates the yeast and creates a tender crumb by adding moisture and richness.
Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons for dough, plus 2 tablespoons for brushing): Adds richness and keeps the rolls soft; the garlic butter brushing on top delivers a dreamy finish.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Blends with garlic and parsley to infuse the rolls with fresh, zesty flavors.
Minced garlic (4 cloves): The star ingredient that gives these rolls their unforgettable aroma and punch of flavor.
Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkled on top for an extra layer of savory richness and a golden crust.

How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining warm milk and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This foamy surface tells you the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Once your yeast is activated, add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix everything together until a soft dough begins to form. Then, knead the dough on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for about 5 minutes—whichever you prefer!

Step 3: First Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place. It should take about 1 to 1.5 hours for the dough to double in size. This rise is what will give your rolls their light, airy texture.

Step 4: Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture

While your dough is rising, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. This mixture will infuse the rolls with those irresistible classic garlic bread flavors.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

After the rise, punch down the dough to release any excess air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each one into a ball. Place the rolls evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Brush the tops generously with your garlic butter mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if you’re using it.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover your shaped rolls and let them rise again for about 30 minutes until they look puffed and ready to bake. This final proof ensures the rolls will be wonderfully soft inside.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for 15 to 18 minutes, until they turn a gorgeous golden brown color. The smell during baking is downright heavenly and will have everyone eager to dig in.

Step 8: Final Garlic Butter Brushing

The last step is to brush the hot rolls with the remaining melted butter right after they come out of the oven. This adds shine and an extra layer of buttery garlic goodness that keeps the crust soft and flavorful.

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a little extra grated Parmesan cheese right before serving brightens the rolls and adds a visual appeal that will wow your guests. For an extra special touch, try a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil on top.

Side Dishes

These garlic bread rolls pair perfectly with hearty dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, creamy tomato soup, or classic lasagna. Their soft texture and rich flavor are the perfect foil to saucy mains and make every meal feel more comforting and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party idea, serve these rolls in a basket lined with a festive cloth and offer flavored butters or dipping oils on the side. You can also slice the rolls horizontally and make mini garlic bread sandwiches stuffed with melted cheese or fresh basil for a delightful snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their softness without becoming stale too quickly.

Freezing

To extend their life, garlic bread rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and place them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes. This warms them through while restoring that fresh-baked crispness on the outside and softness inside. For a quick fix, a microwave can work too, but it may sacrifice some texture.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind the rolls might be a bit denser and have a nuttier flavor. Consider mixing half whole wheat with half all-purpose flour for best results.

How do I know if my yeast is still good?

Proofing the yeast in warm milk and sugar as the recipe describes is the best way to test it. If it doesn’t become foamy within 10 minutes, your yeast might be expired or inactive and should be replaced.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the dairy butter for a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk that is warmed. The rolls will still be soft and flavorful with these tweaks.

What is the best way to mince garlic finely?

Use a sharp knife to finely chop garlic into very small pieces, then smash and scrape the minced garlic with the side of your knife to make it even finer and more fragrant.

Can I add other herbs instead of parsley?

Yes, fresh basil, oregano, or thyme are fantastic choices that will add different but equally delicious herbal notes to your garlic bread rolls.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe is one of those comforting, irresistible treats that quickly becomes a favorite in any household. The simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a soft, flavorful masterpiece that pairs with so many meals or shines all on its own. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon—you’ll love how effortlessly it brings warmth and joy to your table. Happy baking!

Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

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4.2 from 44 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls 1x

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Description

These Garlic Bread Rolls are soft, fluffy, and infused with a rich garlic and parsley flavor, perfect as a side or snack. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, these rolls offer a delicious homemade touch featuring a buttery garlic topping and optional Parmesan cheese for extra zest.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for dough)

For the Garlic Butter Topping

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

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Instructions

Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
Prepare Dough: Add the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter to the foamy yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth, or knead with a stand mixer on medium speed for 5 minutes to develop gluten and elasticity.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size, ensuring a light and airy texture.
Make Garlic Butter Mixture: While the dough is rising, mix olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a small bowl to create a fragrant garlic butter topping.
Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Brush the rolls with the garlic butter mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.
Second Rise: Cover the rolls and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes until they’re puffy and light.
Bake Rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top, indicating they are cooked through.
Final Brush: Remove the hot rolls from the oven and brush them with the remaining melted butter for added flavor and shine before serving.

Notes

Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
Kneading the dough well improves the texture and helps the rolls rise better.
The Parmesan cheese topping is optional but adds a nice, savory flavor.
For extra garlicky rolls, increase the amount of minced garlic in the butter mixture.
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American