Garlic Bread Rolls are soft, fluffy rolls filled with rich garlic butter and sprinkled with herbs that make every bite a little burst of flavor. The outside gets just a touch golden and crispy while the inside stays warm and tender, perfect for anyone who loves that classic garlic bread taste in a handy roll form.
I love making these when we have friends over because they’re easy to grab and share, plus they smell amazing while baking. One tip I always use is to make sure the garlic butter is spread thick enough so it soaks into every layer of the roll—it makes all the difference!
These rolls are great on their own as a quick snack or alongside soups and salads. I sometimes pair them with a homemade tomato soup for a cozy, satisfying meal. Whenever I serve them, the warm garlic aroma fills the room and everyone can’t help but reach for seconds.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works well for soft bread rolls. For a lighter texture, try bread flour or a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a bit more fiber.
Yeast: Active dry yeast is common and easy to use. If you don’t have it, instant yeast is a great substitute—just mix it directly into the flour without proofing first.
Milk: Warm milk helps activate yeast and gives a soft crumb. You can use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Butter and Garlic: Butter adds richness, and fresh garlic gives the best flavor. You can swap butter for olive oil if preferred, but the taste will be different. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch but fresh is best.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Feel free to use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available, or swap with basil or thyme for a twist.
How Do I Get Soft, Fluffy Rolls with Perfect Garlic Butter Flavor?
The secret is all in the dough and that garlic butter:
- Knead the dough well: Kneading develops gluten which gives the bread its soft, chewy structure. Make sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes by hand.
- Let dough rise fully: Allow the dough to double in size before shaping. This resting time is key to fluffy rolls.
- Use warm, not hot milk: Too hot will kill the yeast; aim for about 110°F (43°C) to wake it up gently.
- Be generous with garlic butter: Spread enough butter to soak into the dough layers. For an extra burst of flavor, you can even fold some butter inside the dough balls.
- Brush after baking: Another layer of garlic butter on hot rolls keeps them moist and flavorful after baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients and letting the dough rise comfortably.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your flour, yeast, and seasonings just right.
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) – makes kneading easier and faster, but you can knead by hand too.
- Baking dish or tray – to hold the rolls close so they bake soft and fluffy together.
- Pastry brush – for spreading garlic butter evenly before and after baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese – add inside or on top for cheesy, melty goodness.
- Chopped cooked bacon or pancetta – adds a salty, smoky twist.
- Fresh chopped rosemary or thyme – swap or add to the parsley for a different herbal flavor.
- Red pepper flakes – sprinkle on top for a little heat and extra kick.
How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Chili flakes (optional for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus 1 to 1.5 hours for the first dough rise and another 30-45 minutes for the second rise. Baking will take around 20-25 minutes. Altogether, plan for about 2 to 2.5 hours from start to finish, mostly waiting as the dough rises.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, showing the yeast is active.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the melted butter and the frothy yeast mixture. Stir everything together until you get a sticky dough.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it by hand for about 8-10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead for 6-7 minutes on medium speed.
4. First Rise:
Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap. Leave it in a warm spot to rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Prepare Garlic Butter:
Mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, oregano (if using), and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This will be used for flavoring your rolls.
6. Shape the Rolls:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts and shape each into a smooth ball.
7. Assemble the Rolls:
Optionally spread some garlic butter inside each dough ball before shaping. If you prefer, just brush the garlic butter on top after arranging them in the baking dish.
8. Second Rise:
Place the rolls close together but not overcrowded in a greased or parchment-lined dish. Cover them and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until they puff up nicely.
9. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls generously with garlic butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.
10. Finish and Serve:
Remove the rolls from the oven and brush once more with garlic butter. Sprinkle chili flakes on top if you like a bit of heat. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Garlic Bread Rolls?
Yes! Let the rolls cool completely after baking, then freeze them in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I Substitute Butter for Olive Oil?
Absolutely! Olive oil works well for a dairy-free option. Use the same amount as the butter in the dough and for the garlic mixture, though the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How Do I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze as mentioned above.
Can I Add Cheese to These Rolls?
Yes! Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top before baking or add small cheese cubes inside the dough balls for a melty surprise inside.