Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a soft and fluffy texture infused with rich garlic flavor. Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, these homemade rolls are easy to make and will impress your guests. With the fresh aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, you’ll find these rolls are not just a side dish but a highlight of the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: Infused with fresh garlic and herbs, each bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack on their own.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can create these delicious rolls.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to make them uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Sharing: These rolls are great for family dinners or festive gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and get ready for some baking fun!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Rubber spatula
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough easier and more efficient, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of the bowl during mixing.

Ingredients

To prepare delicious garlic bread rolls, you will need the following ingredients:

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 Pan

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

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a stand mixing bowl, mix together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Chopped parsley
3. Granulated sugar
4. Instant yeast
5. Sea salt

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add warmed milk, room temperature egg, and cooled garlic butter mixture to dry ingredients.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Knead on low speed with the dough hook until smooth and soft (about 10-12 minutes).
– If too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until workable.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Cut kneaded dough into 12 equal portions (67 grams each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball:
– Pinch bottom seam to keep tight.
– Place in prepared pan.
– Cover with plastic wrap or towel; let rise in warm place until doubled (about 1-2 hours).

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 8: Brush and Bake

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

Step 9: Prepare Garlic Butter Topping

While baking, melt additional butter in a pot with minced garlic (cooking for another minute). Stir in parsley once fragrant.

Step 10: Finish Rolls

When out of the oven, brush immediately with garlic butter. Sprinkle flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are versatile and can complement various meals. Their soft texture and rich garlic flavor make them a delightful addition to any table. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With a Side of Marinara Sauce

• Serve warm garlic bread rolls alongside marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy sauce pairs beautifully with the buttery rolls, making it a perfect appetizer or snack.

As a Sandwich Base

• Slice the garlic bread rolls in half and fill them with your choice of meats, cheeses, or veggies. These rolls make an excellent base for hearty sandwiches filled with flavor.

Paired with Soup

• Enjoy your garlic bread rolls with a steaming bowl of soup. Whether it’s tomato basil or creamy potato leek, the rolls are perfect for soaking up delicious broth.

With Salad

• Serve garlic bread rolls next to a fresh garden salad. The crunchiness of the salad contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the rolls, creating a balanced meal.

As Breakfast Rolls

• Turn leftover garlic bread rolls into breakfast treats. Slice them open, add scrambled eggs, and top with cheese for a quick morning meal.

How to Perfect Garlic Bread Rolls

To ensure your garlic bread rolls turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Always use fresh garlic and high-quality butter for the best flavor in your rolls.
• Monitor dough rising – Keep an eye on the dough while it rises; it should double in size. If it’s too cold, find a warmer spot to help it along.
• Knead thoroughly – Kneading is essential for developing gluten in the dough. Aim for 10-12 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
• Preheat properly – Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve an even golden brown color on the rolls.
• Brush generously – Don’t skimp on brushing the tops of the rolls with garlic butter right after baking; it adds extra flavor and moisture.
• Store correctly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them for longer shelf life.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls pair wonderfully with many side dishes, enhancing their flavor profile. Here’s a list of delightful sides that complement them well.

1. Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce and parmesan cheese offers a refreshing contrast to the rich garlic flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots bring color and nutrition that balance out the meal.
3. Chili – A hearty bowl of chili adds warmth and spice, making it a comforting pairing with soft garlic bread rolls.
4. Baked Ziti – This cheesy pasta dish is rich and filling, providing a perfect match for dipping the garlicky rolls.
5. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Silky mashed potatoes create a lovely companion that soaks up any extra garlic butter sauce from the rolls.
6. Grilled Chicken Salad – A light salad topped with grilled chicken adds protein while keeping things fresh alongside your indulgent rolls.
7. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice complements both taste and texture perfectly.
8. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers provide a fun way to enjoy vegetables alongside your warm, garlicky creations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making garlic bread rolls, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Improper Yeast Activation: If the yeast is not activated properly, it can lead to dense rolls. Ensure your milk is warm (around 110°F) before mixing it with yeast.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can hinder the dough’s rise. Always use room temperature ingredients for better results.

• Over-kneading the Dough: Kneading too long can make the rolls tough. Knead just until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky.

• Skipping the Rising Time: Not allowing the dough to rise properly will result in flat rolls. Be patient and let them double in size.

• Neglecting Flavor Enhancements: Skimping on garlic or herbs will lessen the flavor. Use plenty of fresh garlic and herbs for that desired taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store garlic bread rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Garlic Bread Rolls

• Place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Bread Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 15-20 seconds, but be cautious not to dry them out.
• Stovetop: Heat in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding garlic bread rolls:

What makes Garlic Bread Rolls so fluffy?

The key is using instant yeast and ensuring proper kneading and rising time, which helps develop air pockets.

Can I make Garlic Bread Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it after kneading. Just allow it to rise before baking.

Are there variations of Garlic Bread Rolls?

Absolutely! You can add cheese, different herbs, or spices for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

How do I store leftover Garlic Bread Rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Garlic bread rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect blend of softness and rich flavor. Feel free to customize these rolls with your favorite herbs or cheeses to make them uniquely yours. Enjoy baking these delicious treats!