If you crave buttery, aromatic breads that fill your kitchen with irresistible warmth, Garlic Bread Rolls are about to become your new guilty pleasure. These pillowy-soft rolls are generously brushed with garlicky butter and sprinkled with fresh herbs, resulting in a pull-apart snack that’s equally at home as a dinner side or a party treat. Simple to prepare yet spectacular when shared with friends and family, Garlic Bread Rolls stand out for their flavor, their comfort, and their crowd-pleasing charm.

Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Garlic Bread Rolls comes from the synergy of just a handful of focused ingredients. Every element plays a vital role in flavor, texture, and eye appeal, so don’t be afraid to pick the best you can find for maximum deliciousness.

Bread Flour: This offers high protein for soft yet chewy rolls and delivers that classic bakery-style structure.
Instant Yeast: The key to a reliable, quick rise, getting your dough fluffy and ready faster.
Milk: Adds richness and extra softness, elevating the rolls from basic to downright decadent.
Sugar: Just enough to feed the yeast and help the rolls brown beautifully in the oven.
Salt: Balances the flavor so the bread tastes lively, not bland.
Butter: The star behind that classic garlic bread aroma and mouthfeel.
Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses every roll with bold, unmistakable flavor.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of green makes these Garlic Bread Rolls pop visually and adds herbal brightness.
Egg: For an optional but glossy, golden finish that makes each roll look bakery-worthy.

How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by combining the bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Warm the milk until just slightly above room temperature, then mix it in along with melted butter. Stir everything together until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand or with a mixer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and a bit springy. Let the dough rise in a lightly oiled bowl, covered, for about one hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough to release extra air, then divide it into evenly sized pieces (usually 12 makes perfectly plump Garlic Bread Rolls). Roll each piece between your hands to create smooth balls, then arrange them, slightly spaced, in a buttered baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for about 30-40 minutes, until puffy.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter

While the rolls are puffing up, melt the remaining butter and stir in finely minced fresh garlic and chopped parsley. Set aside a tablespoon or two if you want to brush the rolls again post-baking for extra shine and flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Garlic Bread Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you love an extra golden finish, brush each roll with a lightly beaten egg before baking. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, until the rolls are gorgeously golden and sound hollow when tapped. As soon as they emerge hot from the oven, generously brush them with your garlicky herb butter, letting it soak into every crevice.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the Garlic Bread Rolls cool for a few minutes, just until they’re comfortable to handle, then transfer them to your favorite platter. Tear one open to reveal the soft, steamy interior, and bask in the compliments as your friends and family dive in!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of grated parmesan cheese right after brushing on the garlic butter. A pinch of flaky sea salt or a swirl of olive oil adds restaurant-level appeal and flavor to each roll, making every bite pop.

Side Dishes

Pair Garlic Bread Rolls with a hearty bowl of tomato soup, a creamy pasta, or alongside a zesty salad to round out any meal. They’re also dreamy for mopping up pan juices from roast chicken, beef stew, or any sauce-based dish where bread is a must.

Creative Ways to Present

Try assembling the rolls in a ring shape for a festive centerpiece, or serve them in a woven bread basket lined with a colorful napkin. For parties, split the warm rolls and fill with mini meatballs, mozzarella, or roasted vegetables for an irresistible appetizer slider.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your leftover Garlic Bread Rolls fresh, let them cool fully before transferring into an airtight container or zip-top bag. They’ll stay soft and flavorful at room temperature for up to two days, or store in the fridge for up to one week if you’re planning ahead.

Freezing

Garlic Bread Rolls freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Pop into a freezer bag or container, and store for up to three months. To use, thaw at room temperature or gently warm directly from frozen.

Reheating

To restore that fresh-baked taste, wrap rolls loosely in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes. For a hint of extra flavor, brush with more melted garlic butter right after warming. A microwave works in a pinch—use a lower power setting to avoid toughening.

FAQs

Can I make Garlic Bread Rolls dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate overnight. The next day, let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the recipe. This actually improves the flavor by allowing a slow, cool fermentation.

Can I use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder?

While fresh garlic brings the brightest flavor, pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can be substituted when you’re in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a little mellower and less aromatic with these alternatives.

Do I have to use bread flour?

Bread flour gives these Garlic Bread Rolls the best texture—chewy and fluffy. All-purpose flour will work in a pinch, but the rolls might be slightly softer and less lofty. For that classic bite, try to stick to bread flour if possible!

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the dairy milk for a plant-based version, use vegan butter, and omit the egg wash. The results will still be deliciously soft and full of garlicky flavor.

What’s the best way to get perfectly shaped rolls?

Weighing the dough before dividing helps ensure even rolls. When shaping, keep your palms cupped and roll each piece on an unfloured surface for a taut, smooth finish. Practice makes perfect, so don’t stress if your first batch isn’t bakery-perfect—they’ll taste amazing regardless!

Final Thoughts

Bringing Garlic Bread Rolls to your table adds an irresistible, homey flair that never fails to evoke “oohs” and “aahs.” They’re the perfect blend of nostalgia, comfort, and pure flavor, making them a must-try for every bread lover. Give them a whirl—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!