Prep Time: ~30 minutes (plus rising time)
Cook Time: ~20 minutes
Total Time: ~2–2.5 hours (including rising)
Serves: ~12 rolls
Introduction
Soft & Buttery Garlic Rolls are fluffy, aromatic dinner rolls infused with garlic and herbs, then brushed with a garlic-butter finish. They’re warm, tender, and perfect alongside soups, pasta, salads, roasted meats, or any cozy meal. These rolls are soft on the inside with a lightly crisp exterior — a flavorful addition to any table.
Why These Rolls Are So Good
Garlic Rolls combine light, yeasted dough with fragrant garlic and herbs — giving you rich flavor in every bite. Fresh garlic mixed into the dough and brushed on top ensures deep, savory aroma. The buttery finish enhances the taste and makes these rolls irresistible. Soft, tender, and comforting, they elevate any meal from ordinary to memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%), warmed
- 4½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons finely minced fresh garlic
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or herbs (thyme, oregano — optional)
For the Garlic Butter Brush
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: flaky sea salt for finishing
The Art of Making Great Garlic Rolls
Soft, airy texture comes from good gluten development and proper rising. The garlic and herbs infuse flavor gently into the dough instead of just topping it. Brushing the rolls after baking with garlic-butter gives them a glossy finish and rich aroma. Folding garlic into both the dough and finishing brush ensures every bite has savory impact.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Warm the milk until it’s comfortably warm to the touch (not hot).
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, yeast, salt, garlic, and chosen herbs.
Add warmed milk, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough comes together.
Knead
Knead the dough by hand or machine for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky, but not overly sticky. If too sticky, add small amounts of flour.
First Rise
Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size — about 1–1.5 hours.
Shape the Rolls
Punch down risen dough gently. Divide into 12 equal portions (a scale helps for uniform rolls).
Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or similarly sized baking pan.
Second Rise
Cover shaped rolls and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy and almost doubled in size.
Bake
Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
Optional: brush tops lightly with a bit of melted butter for color.
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
Garlic Butter Brush
While rolls bake, melt butter and stir in minced garlic and chopped parsley.
When rolls come out of the oven, brush generously with the garlic butter mixture while still warm. Optionally sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top for extra flavor.
Serve Warm
Let rolls cool just a few minutes, then serve warm. They’re great on their own or paired with main dishes, soups, pastas, and salads.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor — minced fine so it disperses evenly.
- Avoid overheating the milk — too hot can kill yeast.
- Make sure dough rises fully — under-risen rolls will be dense.
- Brush with garlic butter while rolls are still warm for maximum absorption.
- Add herbs to both dough and brush for deeper, layered flavor.
Creative Variations
- Add shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, mozzarella) on top before baking.
- Mix in chopped roasted garlic for milder garlic depth.
- Add a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme for savory aroma.
- Make smaller rolls for appetizer bites or larger ones for sandwich rolls.
- Add a swirl of pesto inside before shaping for an herby twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
To reheat and refresh soft texture, warm in a 325–350 °F (160–175 °C) oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving — it can make them chewy.
Conclusion
Soft & Buttery Garlic Rolls are a crowd-pleasing, flavorful bread that brings comfort and robust garlic flavor to any meal. They’re simple to make yet deliver a delicious result — soft interior, buttery aroma, and savory herb finish that will delight family and guests alike.
