If you’ve been searching for a show-stopping yet surprisingly simple treat, the Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These golden, flaky delights combine the irresistible flavors of roasted garlic, fresh herbs, and sharp Parmesan cheese all wrapped in buttery crescent roll dough. Perfectly layered and baked to a beautiful crisp, they make an ideal snack, appetizer, or side that will impress friends and family alike. The way every bite melts in your mouth with savory richness and herbaceous brightness is something special you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins Recipe lies in how simple yet essential the ingredients are, each playing a key role in crafting its scrumptious flavor and inviting texture. From the buttery crescent dough to the punch of fresh parsley, everything harmonizes perfectly.
- Crescent roll dough (3 tubes, 8-ounce each): This soft, flaky dough forms the beautiful layers and easy handling in the recipe.
- Butter (3/4 cup, softened): Butter adds richness and moisture, helping to create that tender, golden crust.
- Garlic cloves (4, minced): Fresh garlic brings a bold aroma and savory depth that infuses the entire cruffin.
- Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Parsley introduces a vibrant, fresh herbaceous note that balances the richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (3/4 cup): Parmesan lends a nutty, salty bite and forms a luscious crust when baked.
- Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just the right amount of salt enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures your cruffins slip out easily after baking without a hitch.
Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter Herb Spread
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and kosher salt. Mix it well so the flavors marry perfectly. Set aside about 1/4 cup of this mixture for brushing on top later – that little extra bit of buttery goodness will take your cruffins to the next level.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Roll Sheets
Roll out each crescent roll dough tube onto a flat surface using a rolling pin to create three larger rectangles. Press along the perforated lines to smooth them out into one solid sheet. This helps create the perfect layers when the dough is rolled up.
Step 4: Spread the Flavor Base
Spread a thin, even layer of the garlic-herb butter over each dough rectangle. Next, sprinkle approximately 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of each sheet. This layering is where your cruffins get their irresistible cheesy, garlicky soul.
Step 5: Roll and Slice into Layers
Beginning from the long edge, roll each buttered and cheese-speckled dough sheet into a tight log. Cut these logs in half, creating two shorter pieces. Then, slice each short piece lengthwise to reveal the gorgeous, layered interior. Repeat this crafting step for all three dough sheets until you have 12 pieces prepared.
Step 6: Shape the Cruffins
Take each sliced dough piece and wrap it gently around your finger, curling it into a muffin-like shape with the lovely layered side facing outward. Place each shaped cruffin into the greased muffin pan, nestling them comfortably.
Step 7: Top and Bake to Golden Perfection
Melt the reserved garlic herb butter mixture and brush it generously over each cruffin’s top. Then, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor and a golden crust. Bake the pan in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Remember to rotate the pan halfway through for even browning until the cruffins become beautifully crisp and golden.
Step 8: Cooling and Serving Prep
After baking, carefully remove the cruffins from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly. They’re best enjoyed warm or at room temperature to savor every buttery, cheesy layer and herb-kissed bite.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins Recipe even further, try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a lovely sheen and richness, making each cruffin visually inviting and bursting with flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these cruffins alongside a fresh garden salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or pair with a warm bowl of tomato soup. The crisp greens or the tangy soup beautifully contrast the buttery, savory layers of the cruffin, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
You can turn these into delightful party bites by serving the cruffins on a wooden board with small ramekins of marinara or creamy ranch dip. For an elegant touch, garnish the tray with sprigs of fresh herbs and lemon wedges. They also make fabulous handheld snacks perfect for picnics or brunch spreads.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness and texture. For best results, keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Freezing
These cruffins freeze wonderfully. After they have completely cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven for a quick treat later on.
Reheating
To bring your Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins Recipe back to life, reheat them in a 325°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy and lose that perfect flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute the crescent roll dough with puff pastry?
Absolutely! Puff pastry will give you an even flakier texture, making your cruffins extra buttery and crisp. Just be sure to thaw it properly and handle gently to preserve those delicate layers.
Is there a way to make these cruffins less garlicky for kids?
You can reduce the garlic cloves to 1 or 2 or use roasted garlic instead for a milder, sweeter flavor. The Parmesan and herbs will still give a delicious taste without overpowering young palates.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?
Fresh parsley definitely gives the best brightness and color. However, if fresh isn’t available, substitute with about one-third the amount of dried parsley. Just be sure to mix it well into the butter beforehand for even flavor distribution.
How do I prevent the cruffins from sticking to the muffin pan?
Lightly greasing the pan with non-stick cooking spray is key. You can also line the pan with silicone muffin liners or even paper liners if you want to be extra sure everything comes out in one piece.
Are these cruffins good served cold?
While they’re best warm to enjoy the buttery layers, these cruffins still taste delicious at room temperature. Cold might make the butter solidify a bit, dulling the flavor slightly, so it’s recommended to reheat if stored.
Final Thoughts
If you want a snack or appetizer that feels special but is incredibly easy to make, the Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins Recipe truly delivers on all fronts. Its flaky, cheesy layers with fresh herb and garlic notes create a comforting and elegant bite every time. Go ahead and give them a try—once you do, they’ll be a staple in your baking lineup and a favorite you’ll love sharing with everyone around your table.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cruffins
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Herb Cruffins combine flaky crescent roll dough with a flavorful garlic butter mixture, fresh parsley, and savory Parmesan cheese, baked into delightful muffin-shaped treats perfect for breakfast or a savory snack.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 (8-ounce) tubes of crescent roll dough
Butter Mixture
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Cheese
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and kosher salt. Set aside 1/4 cup of this butter mixture for brushing the tops later.
- Prepare Dough Sheets: Roll out each crescent roll dough sheet with a rolling pin to form three larger rectangles per tube, smoothing out perforations to create uninterrupted sheets.
- Assemble Layers: Spread a thin, even layer of the butter mixture over each dough rectangle. Sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese evenly across each sheet.
- Shape Logs and Cut: Starting from the long edge, roll each sheet into a log shape. Cut each full log in half, then slice each half lengthwise to expose the layers inside. Repeat to create 12 pieces total.
- Form Cruffins: Wrap each dough piece around your finger to create a layered, muffin-shaped cruffin, with the layered side facing outward. Place each into the prepared muffin pan cups.
- Brush and Top: Melt the reserved butter mixture and generously brush it over the tops of each cruffin. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and crispness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through to ensure even browning, until the cruffins are a golden brown color.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and transfer cruffins to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature for best taste.
Notes
- Make sure to smooth out the perforated lines on the crescent dough to prevent tearing during rolling.
- For a stronger garlic flavor, you can increase the number of garlic cloves to 5 or 6.
- These cruffins are best served the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven to maintain crispiness instead of microwaving.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheese flavor profile.
