Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering soft and fluffy textures infused with aromatic garlic. Perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or simply enjoyed with a warm bowl of soup, these homemade rolls stand out with their rich flavor and comforting qualities. The combination of fresh garlic in the dough and a luscious garlic herb butter glaze makes them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These rolls require simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making them perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Flavor Packed: Each roll is generously flavored with garlic and herbs, elevating any meal to new heights.
• Versatile Side Dish: Ideal for complementing various dishes like pasta, salads, or soups.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings per batch, they’re great for gatherings or family dinners.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add different herbs or spices based on your preference!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your garlic bread rolls, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• 9×13 baking pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: Makes kneading the dough easier and quicker than doing it by hand.
• Baking pan: A 9×13 pan helps achieve even baking and provides ample space for the rolls to rise.

Ingredients

Garlic bread rolls are soft and fluffy dinner rolls packed with garlic flavor. These homemade rolls are made with lots of fresh garlic in the dough and brushed with even more garlic herb butter after baking!

For the Dough

• 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup whole or 2% milk (warmed to 110°F)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)

For the Garlic Butter Topping

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Flaky sea salt (for finishing)

How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Create Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small pot, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and cool while measuring other ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a stand mixing bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. Parsley
3. Sugar
4. Yeast
5. Salt

Step 4: Mix Dough Ingredients

Add warmed milk, egg, and cooled garlic butter mixture to the dry ingredients. Knead on low speed using the dough hook until smooth, about 10-12 minutes. If too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.

Step 5: Shape Rolls

Cut kneaded dough into 12 equal portions (about 67 grams each). Shape each portion into a smooth ball by pinching the seam together at the bottom. Place them into the prepared baking pan.

Step 6: Let Dough Rise

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Set in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 8: Bake Rolls

Brush tops of rolls with beaten egg wash. Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Prepare Garlic Butter Topping

While rolls bake, melt remaining butter in a pot with minced garlic for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in parsley before removing from heat.

Step 10: Finish Rolls

Once baked, immediately brush rolls with garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle flaky sea salt if desired and serve warm!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are a versatile addition to any meal. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Soup

• Tomato Basil Soup: The classic combination of garlic bread rolls and tomato basil soup creates a comforting meal.
• Minestrone: Pair these rolls with a hearty minestrone for a filling lunch or dinner.

As an Appetizer

• Bruschetta: Serve garlic bread rolls with fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze for a tasty starter.
• Cheese Platter: Offer them alongside a variety of cheeses for an elegant appetizer spread.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: Enjoy garlic bread rolls as a side to crispy Caesar salad, adding another layer of flavor.
• Mixed Greens: These rolls complement lighter salads well, providing a satisfying contrast.

For Dipping

• Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: Serve warm garlic bread rolls with a dish of olive oil mixed with balsamic vinegar for dipping.
• Garlic Butter Dip: Enhance the garlic flavor by providing extra garlic butter for dipping.

How to Perfect Garlic Bread Rolls

Creating the perfect garlic bread rolls is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your rolls turn out fluffy and flavorful every time.

• Knead Thoroughly: Ensuring you knead the dough until it’s smooth will give your rolls the best texture.
• Use Warm Ingredients: Warm milk helps activate the yeast, making your dough rise better.
• Let Them Rise: Allowing the dough to double in size is crucial for light, airy rolls.
• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the tops with beaten egg gives them that beautiful golden color when baked.
• Serve Freshly Baked: For the best taste and texture, serve your garlic bread rolls warm from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls pair wonderfully with many side dishes, making them an excellent choice for any meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Rich and buttery mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors of the rolls perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Grilled Chicken Salad – A light salad featuring grilled chicken balances the richness of the garlic butter in the rolls.
4. Pasta Primavera – This colorful dish of pasta and fresh vegetables pairs excellently with soft garlic bread rolls.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers make a hearty side that matches well with these fluffy rolls.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, buttery flavors of the rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making garlic bread rolls can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can prevent you from achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

• Skipping the yeast activation: Always ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated. Dissolve it in warm milk to ensure your rolls rise well.
• Over-kneading the dough: Kneading is essential, but overdoing it can make rolls tough. Aim for a soft and smooth texture without excessive kneading.
• Not letting the dough rise enough: Give the dough ample time to rise until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for soft and fluffy rolls.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven adequately before baking. A hot oven helps create a golden crust while keeping the inside fluffy.
• Forgetting to brush with garlic butter: Don’t skip the garlic butter topping after baking! It adds flavor and enhances the rolls’ appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover garlic bread rolls in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days refrigerated.

Freezing Garlic Bread Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag. They are best used within 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Bread Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on high for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to dry them out.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat with a lid on for a few minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making garlic bread rolls:

What makes garlic bread rolls different from regular dinner rolls?

Garlic bread rolls are infused with minced garlic both in the dough and brushed with garlic herb butter, giving them a distinct flavor compared to standard dinner rolls.

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

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in denser rolls. You might need to adjust the liquid content slightly.

How do I customize my garlic bread rolls?

Feel free to add herbs like oregano or thyme for added flavor, or incorporate cheese for a cheesy twist!

Can I make these garlic bread rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg instead of an egg for an entirely plant-based version.

Final Thoughts

Garlic bread rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. They complement various meals or stand alone as a tasty snack. Experiment with different herbs or cheeses to make them your own, and enjoy this delightful addition to your table!