Name: Garlic Butter Bread Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 120 min
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups 440g all-purpose flour; 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast; 1 cup 240ml warm milk (105°F–110°F); ¼ cup 50g granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 4 tablespoons 56g unsalted butter, softened; 4 tablespoons 56g unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped); ½ teaspoon salt

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, especially when it’s infused with the rich, savory flavors of garlic and butter. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in some comfort food, these garlic butter bread rolls are the perfect addition to your table.

Soft, fluffy, and infused with a delicious garlic butter glaze, these rolls will leave everyone reaching for seconds. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create these mouthwatering rolls from scratch—including tips, variations, and expert techniques to ensure perfect results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Bread Rolls Recipe

Incredibly Soft & Fluffy – These rolls are light as a cloud thanks to a perfectly balanced dough.

Rich & Buttery Flavor – The combination of melted butter and garlic takes these rolls to the next level.
Easy to Make – With step-by-step guidance, even beginner bakers can achieve bakery-quality results.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve them with soups, salads, pasta dishes, or even as a snack on their own.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Bread Rolls

Before diving into the process, let’s go over what you’ll need to make these flavorful rolls.

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the rolls soft.
2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise and gives a light, airy texture.

1 cup (240ml) warm milk – Activates the yeast and adds richness.
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor.

1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients and contributes to a tender crumb.
4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds moisture and richness.

For the Garlic Butter Glaze:

4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted – Forms the flavorful coating.

4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the rolls with a deep, savory taste.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped – Adds freshness and color.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the garlic butter’s flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk until it reaches about 105°F–110°F (40°C–43°C)—this ensures the yeast activates properly.
Stir in sugar and yeast, then let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step confirms the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer fitted with a dough hook), combine flour, salt, and softened butter.

Add the yeast mixture and beaten egg to the bowl.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap or a damp towel.

Let it rise in a warm, draft-free environment for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release excess air.
Divide it into 12 equal portions and shape each piece into a smooth ball.

Arrange them in a greased baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the rolls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until puffy.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake the rolls for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Make the Garlic Butter Glaze

While the rolls are baking, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
Once the rolls come out of the oven, immediately brush them with the garlic butter glaze for maximum flavor.

Tips for Success

Ensure Proper Yeast Activation – If your yeast doesn’t foam after 10 minutes, it may be expired or the milk may have been too hot/cold.
Use a Kitchen Scale – For accuracy, weigh the flour instead of using measuring cups.
Don’t Over-Knead – Stop kneading once the dough is smooth and elastic.

Let the Rolls Cool Slightly – Allowing them to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking improves texture.

Variations & Add-Ons

Want to switch things up? Here are some tasty variations:

Cheesy Garlic Butter Rolls – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking.

Herb-Infused Rolls – Add Italian seasoning or rosemary to the garlic butter glaze.
Spicy Kick – Mix in red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Sweet & Savory Twist – Substitute half the butter with honey for a subtle sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These garlic butter bread rolls are incredibly versatile! Here are some ways to enjoy them:

With Soups & Stews – Perfect for dipping into tomato soup, creamy chowders, or hearty stews.
As a Side Dish – Serve alongside pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or lasagna.

For Sandwiches – Slice them open and use as burger buns or for sliders.
Simply with Butter – They’re irresistible with just an extra smear of butter.

Storage & Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days.

Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes, or microwave for 20 seconds.

Final Thoughts

Making garlic butter bread rolls from scratch is easier than you might think, and the results are well worth the effort. With their golden crust, soft interior, and rich buttery garlic glaze, these rolls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Try this recipe today, and let me know how they turn out in the comments! Happy baking! 😊