Garlic Butter Bread Rolls

There’s something so comforting about pulling a tray of warm, golden rolls straight from the oven, the airy centers yielding under your fingertips and offering up a delicate steam that hints at the buttery, garlicky treasure within. These garlic butter bread rolls are the perfect embodiment of simple ingredients coming together to create an irresistible treat. Crafted with a soft, pillowy dough, each bite is a tender embrace of flavor—light enough to enjoy on its own, yet rich enough to elevate any meal. From the initial kneading of the dough to the final brush of melted garlic butter, every step is a delightful moment in the kitchen that turns basic pantry staples into pure culinary magic.

As you gather around the table with family or friends, these rolls become more than just a side—they’re an experience. The warmth spreads beyond your hands and into your heart, encouraging lively conversation and satisfied smiles. Whether you’re serving them alongside a cozy weeknight dinner, pairing them with a bowl of creamy tomato soup, or simply savoring one as a midday snack, their flavor profile hits all the right notes of comfort and indulgence. And the best part? Even if you’re a beginner at baking, this recipe is straightforward enough to guide you through each step, making the journey as rewarding as the delicious destination.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN GARLIC BUTTER BREAD ROLLS

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s talk about what makes these rolls so flavorful and tender. Every ingredient plays a specific role, from activating the yeast to infusing the dough with that signature garlic-parsley kick. Here’s a closer look at the essential components:

• all-purpose flour

This forms the backbone of the dough, providing structure and elasticity. Its moderate protein content allows for a soft crumb that still holds shape beautifully once baked.

• active dry yeast

The magical leavening agent that gives the rolls their light, airy texture. When properly activated, yeast ferments the sugars, producing carbon dioxide bubbles that make the dough rise.

• warm water

Used to dissolve the yeast and sugar, the mild warmth jump-starts the fermentation process. It’s crucial to keep the temperature around 110°F (43°C) to avoid killing the yeast.

• granulated sugar

While adding a hint of sweetness, sugar also serves as food for the yeast, ensuring a robust rise and tender crumb.

• salt

Enhances overall flavor and helps control yeast activity, ensuring the dough doesn’t rise too quickly. It’s also sprinkled on top for that final burst of savory taste.

• unsalted butter

Incorporated into the dough for richness and softness, and later melted into the garlic butter glaze that gives each roll its glossy, savory finish.

• milk

Adds moisture and contributes to a finer, more tender crumb. Its proteins and fats enrich the dough, yielding a soft, pillowy interior.

• garlic cloves

Freshly minced for an intense, aromatic punch. Garlic infuses the butter glaze with its unmistakable savory warmth.

• fresh parsley

Brightens the flavor and adds a pop of color. Its herbaceous notes complement the garlic, creating a balanced, fresh finish.

HOW TO MAKE GARLIC BUTTER BREAD ROLLS

Baking these garlic butter bread rolls involves a few simple phases—mixing, kneading, proofing, shaping, glazing, and baking. Each step builds on the last, resulting in golden, soft rolls bursting with garlicky goodness and a hint of fresh parsley.

1. In a small bowl, dissolve granulated sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is alive and active.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the softened butter to the flour mixture and rub it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles crumbs, creating a tender texture.

3. Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the flour, along with the milk. Mix until a dough forms, ensuring all dry ingredients are incorporated into a cohesive mass.

4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if necessary to prevent sticking, but take care not to over-flour the dough.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size, developing flavor and volume.

6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready once the rolls have their final rise.

7. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth roll by tucking edges underneath and rolling gently.

8. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them, and let them rise again for 30 minutes, allowing them to fluff up one more time.

9. In a small saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in minced garlic and chopped parsley, creating a fragrant garlic butter glaze.

10. Brush the rolls generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring each one gets a glossy, flavorful coating.

11. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown, rotating the pan halfway if needed for even coloring.

12. Remove from oven and immediately brush with any leftover garlic butter. Sprinkle with a little salt if desired, then serve warm and enjoy your delicious homemade garlic butter bread rolls!

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GARLIC BUTTER BREAD ROLLS

Once your rolls are baked to perfection, the fun really begins. These warm, fluffy delights can be served in countless ways, each enhancing their rich garlic-butter essence. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a cozy family meal, or simply treating yourself, the presentation and pairing can turn these rolls into a standout feature. Below are some favorite ideas to make every serving an unforgettable experience:

• With a bowl of steaming soup: Pair these rolls with a hearty tomato basil or creamy potato soup. Tear pieces off and dip into the soup for a comforting bite that soaks up all the savory broth.
• Slathered with compound butter: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Spread the compound butter over warm rolls for an extra flavor boost.
• As a base for mini sliders: Split the rolls and fill them with grilled chicken, pulled pork, or vegetarian patties. The garlic butter adds a gourmet touch to these handheld snacks.
• Paired with a cheese board: Serve alongside a selection of cheeses—sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese. The rolls’ mild garlic flavor complements a variety of textures and tastes.

HOW TO STORE GARLIC BUTTER BREAD ROLLS

Keeping these rolls fresh and flavorful after baking is simple when you follow a few storage tips. Proper storage maintains their soft texture and rich garlic aroma, so you can enjoy them for days or even weeks. Whether you plan to enjoy leftovers later in the week or freeze them for a future craving, these guidelines will help you preserve their quality:

• Store at room temperature in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 2 days. Ensure the container seals well to prevent the rolls from drying out.
• For longer storage, freeze the rolls individually on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap rolls in foil. Heat for 10–12 minutes, then unwrap and bake 2–3 minutes more to refresh the crust and melt the garlic butter inside.
• If you prefer refrigeration, place rolls in a bread box or sealed container for up to 5 days. Gently warm in the microwave (10–15 seconds) or oven to restore softness before serving.

CONCLUSION

What a journey it’s been, exploring every detail of these garlic butter bread rolls—from mixing the dough to savoring that first warm, buttery bite. We’ve walked through each ingredient’s role, offered step-by-step guidance, and shared creative serving and storage ideas. Whether you’re a baking novice or seasoned home cook, this recipe is built to bring comfort and joy to your kitchen. Feel free to print this article and save it; having a physical copy can be a wonderful reference when you’re ready to whip up a batch. Remember, you can also find a FAQ below to answer any lingering questions you might have about technique, substitutions, or troubleshooting.

Thank you for spending time with me in this culinary adventure! I hope these garlic butter bread rolls become a favorite in your home, whether you bake them for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a simple snack. If you give this recipe a try, please leave your comments, questions, or feedback—I’d love to hear how it turned out, any variations you experimented with, or if you need help with any step. Happy baking!

Print Recipe

Garlic Butter Bread Rolls

Author: Sophie Reynolds Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 25 mins Rest Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 55 mins

Calories: 120

Description

These garlic butter bread rolls are soft, aromatic, and bursting with flavor. Ideal as a side to dinner or as a snack, each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

• ¹⁄₂ cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₄ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¹⁄₄ cup milk

• 4 cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• ¹⁄₄ cup unsalted butter (for garlic butter glaze)

• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve granulated sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the softened butter to the flour mixture and rub it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles crumbs.
3. Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the flour, along with the milk. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a roll.
8. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them, and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
9. In a small saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in minced garlic and chopped parsley.
10. Brush the rolls generously with the garlic butter mixture.
11. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
12. Remove from oven and brush immediately with any leftover garlic butter. Sprinkle with a little salt if desired.
13. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious homemade garlic butter bread rolls!

Note

• Adding a pinch of garlic powder to the dough can intensify the garlic flavor.
• These rolls can be frozen and reheated; simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
• Using fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano can add different flavor profiles to the rolls.
• To make the rolls more indulgent, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the tops before baking.

Keywords: garlic butter rolls, homemade bread, easy bread recipe, soft rolls, baking, comfort food