Garlic Butter Bread Rolls – Soft, Fluffy, and Irresistibly Buttery

Garlic Butter Bread Rolls are the kind of homemade treat that fills your kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread mingled with rich garlic and melted butter. These rolls are soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and brushed with a savory garlic-herb butter that takes them over the top.

Perfect as a side for pasta, soups, or holiday dinners, they’re also fantastic on their own — warm from the oven and ready to pull apart. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these rolls are approachable and rewarding.

Ingredients Overview

Each component adds to the flavor, texture, or rise of these dreamy rolls. Let’s look at the essentials:

Bread Dough Base

Flour: All-purpose or bread flour both work — bread flour gives a chewier texture, while all-purpose yields softness.

Yeast: Instant or active dry yeast will both work; if using active dry, bloom it in warm water first.

Sugar: Just a touch to feed the yeast and enhance browning.

Milk & Butter: Warm milk adds tenderness; butter enriches the dough.

Salt: Essential for flavor balance.

Garlic Butter Topping

Butter: Use unsalted to control salt levels — melted for easy brushing.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic for intense flavor; garlic powder for milder taste.

Parsley or Herbs: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; dried Italian herbs or chives also work.

Parmesan (Optional): Adds a cheesy, savory finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

   In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine:

   • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)

   • 2¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)

   • 2 tbsp sugar
     Let sit 5 minutes (skip this wait if using instant yeast directly).

   Add:

   • 3 tbsp melted butter

   • 1 tsp salt

   • 3–3½ cups all-purpose or bread flour

   Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–6 minutes in a mixer, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise

   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Shape the Rolls

   Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape into balls by tucking the edges under and rolling gently.

   Place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or round pan, leaving space between rolls.

4. Second Rise

   Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy and nearly touching.

5. Bake

   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.

6. Make Garlic Butter

   While the rolls bake, melt:

   • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
     Stir in:

   • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

   • 1 tbsp chopped parsley

   • (Optional) 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

7. Brush and Serve

   As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush generously with the garlic butter mixture. Serve warm.

Chef’s Tips:

• For ultra-soft rolls, brush with milk before baking.

• Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar inside each dough ball for cheesy stuffed rolls.

• Want crispier tops? Bake uncovered, then broil for 1–2 minutes.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Flavor Variations:

• Herbed Rolls: Add 1 tsp dried oregano or rosemary to the dough.

• Cheesy Rolls: Stir shredded cheese into the dough or sprinkle on top before baking.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.

Ingredient Swaps:

• Vegan: Use plant-based milk and butter; skip Parmesan or use vegan cheese.

• Whole Wheat: Replace up to 1 cup of flour with whole wheat flour — rolls will be denser but still delicious.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

These rolls are versatile and make any meal feel special.

Serve With:

• Pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna

• Soups like tomato, minestrone, or creamy broccoli

• Holiday dinners (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter)

Occasions:

• Weeknight Dinner: Simple enough for any day

• Dinner Parties: Elegant and homemade

• Meal Prep: Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping, then thaw and bake as needed

Nutritional & Health Notes

Homemade rolls are more wholesome than store-bought versions, with fewer preservatives.

• Carbs: Provide quick energy; pair with protein-rich meals for balance

• Fat: From butter — can be adjusted with plant-based options

• Protein: Moderate from flour and milk; serve with beans or meats for a complete meal

To lighten the recipe:

• Use reduced-fat milk

• Cut back on butter in the dough or topping

• Serve with a veggie-forward main for a more balanced plate

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these rolls ahead?

A1: Yes! After shaping, refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature and rise for 30 minutes before baking.

Q2: Can I freeze the dough?

A2: Yes — freeze shaped dough balls on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Thaw in fridge, let rise, then bake.

Q3: What’s the best flour to use?

A3: Bread flour gives chewier texture; all-purpose works well for soft, fluffy results.

Q4: Can I make mini rolls?

A4: Absolutely! Divide the dough into 18–24 pieces and reduce baking time to 12–15 minutes.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days, or freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months.

Q6: Can I make them without yeast?

A6: This recipe requires yeast for rise and texture. For a yeast-free version, try a baking powder biscuit or soda bread recipe.

Q7: How do I get a golden top?

A7: Brush with milk or egg wash before baking, and use top heat for the last few minutes (broil briefly if needed).

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