Delicious and aromatic garlic bread rolls that evoke family tradition, perfect alongside pasta or soups.

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The rich, intoxicating aroma of baking garlic bread rolls wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly evening. As I stand in the kitchen, the butter melts, the garlic sizzles ever so softly, and memories flood in. I see my grandmother’s flour-dusted hands kneading the soft, pliable dough, while laughter and chatter fill the room. These rolls are not just a dish; they symbolize our family’s love, tradition, and the comfort found in sharing meals.

Why Garlic Bread Rolls Belongs in Your Kitchen Story

Garlic bread rolls are more than mere accompaniments to a meal. They hold within them stories of family gatherings, of quiet family dinners where everyone indulges in the joy of good food and togetherness. In many families, including mine, they serve as the centerpiece, a signal that something special is happening.

Every time my family gathers, we seldom sit down at the table without a batch of freshly baked garlic bread rolls. It feels like a tradition the soft warmth of the rolls perfectly complementing rich pasta dishes or soups. They are a reminder of when my mother, standing at the kitchen counter, would whip them up with love while the rest of us buzzed about, eager for the first golden bite.

Sharing garlic bread rolls becomes a ritual a time to pause and enjoy one another’s company. The conversations that happen around the dinner table deepen bonds and create a tapestry of memories. In every mouthful, there is history: the rolling of dough, the melting of butter, the sizzle of garlic simple ingredients that bring families together.

How This Recipe Comes Together

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Making garlic bread rolls is a straightforward and rewarding experience. Imagine rich, golden rolls awaiting your arrival, their soft exteriors promising a warm embrace when you take that first bite. The dough, when kneaded to perfection, becomes a canvas for the aromatic garlic and melted butter, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a moment to gather our ingredients. The vibrant colors and fresh aromas of each component will transport you, even before you begin.

Gathering the Ingredients

For these delightful garlic bread rolls, you will need:

• 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 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)
• 1 beaten egg, for brushing the tops
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Using fresh ingredients, especially the parsley, enhances the flavor and makes every bite feel vibrant. When selecting your flour, a good quality all-purpose variety will lend the roll their delightful texture.

Step-by-Step Directions

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s create some magic in the kitchen.

1. Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set it aside.
2. In a small pot, melt 4 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant. Remove it from the heat and cool while you measure the other ingredients.
3. In a stand mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour, 3 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt.
4. Add the warmed milk, 1 egg, and the cooled garlic butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Knead on low speed with the dough hook attachment until the dough looks smooth and feels soft and tacky, about 10-12 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add one tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes manageable.
5. Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal portions, measuring 67 grams each for accuracy. Shape each piece into a smooth ball using your hands. Pinch the bottom where the seam meets to ensure they hold their shape.
6. Place the dough balls into your prepared baking pan, covering the top with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Set them in a warm place and allow them to rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
8. Brush the tops of the rolls generously with the beaten egg wash. Bake the rolls for 20-30 minutes or until their tops achieve a lovely golden brown hue.
9. While the rolls are baking, prepare the garlic butter topping by melting another 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small pot. Add the remaining minced garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of parsley.
10. When the rolls come out of the oven, immediately brush them with the garlic butter. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top if desired, and serve them warm.

Each step in this process is filled with anticipation, as you watch the dough rise and transform into beautiful rolls. Your kitchen becomes a delightful space filled with appetizing aromas and heartfelt memories.

Bringing Garlic Bread Rolls to the Table

Once baked, these garlic bread rolls become the stars of your family table. Imagine everyone gathered around laughter, stories, and the delicious anticipation of what’s to come. There is something heartwarming about passing a basket full of these golden rolls, their warmth radiating through the air.

They pair beautifully with a multitude of dishes. Whether nestled next to a hearty marinara sauce, creamy alfredo pasta, or a hearty vegetable soup, they serve as a perfect complement. Each roll, with its golden crust and buttery center, invites you to take your time, to savor every bite, and to celebrate the experience of breaking bread together.

Keeping the Comfort Alive

Once you have made your garlic bread rolls, you might find yourself wondering how to keep the goodness alive for the next day. Proper storage is key to maintaining their deliciousness.

To store your leftover rolls, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. They can last for about 2-3 days at room temperature.

If you want to savor that fresh-baked taste the next day, you can reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F, wrap the rolls in aluminum foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This little trick revives softness and moisture, making the flavors of garlic and butter dance upon your palate again.

Over time, the flavors in garlic bread rolls can deepen and evolve, creating a more robust experience. The garlic might mellow, while the richness of the butter seeps beautifully into the bread.

Dalida’s Little Secrets

1. For softer rolls: Substitute a portion of all-purpose flour with bread flour. This can enhance the chewy texture.
2. Herb Variations: Feel free to add minced rosemary or thyme into the dough for a delightful twist.
3. Timing Your Rise: If the weather is particularly cold, place your dough in a turned-off oven with the light on. This creates a warm environment perfect for rising.
4. Making Ahead: You can prepare the dough a day in advance. After shaping the rolls, refrigerate them overnight. Just allow them to come to room temperature and rise before baking.
5. Perfectly Stored: For longer storage, consider freezing the rolls. After they have cooled, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. When you crave them, thaw on the counter and reheat as indicated.

Our Regional Touch

In my family, garlic bread rolls could not only stand alone but also adapt to whatever regional influences we encountered. Sometimes, my grandmother would add cheese, stuffing the centers with gooey mozzarella before sealing the rolls. This added an unforgettable pull and a savory surprise with each bite.

In other cases, we switched out the butter for olive oil when making the garlic mixture, which lent a Mediterranean flair to our beloved rolls. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes or roasted peppers could create a colorful twist, resonating with the flavors of our Italian heritage.

Each of these variations tells a story. They reflect our journey through generations and our desire to integrate beloved ingredients into our cherished recipes. Every family has its personal touches that turn a simple dish into a true heirloom.

FAQs About Garlic Bread Rolls

Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, honey gives a softer sweetness and creates a slightly denser roll, reminiscent of my mother’s spring version. Just reduce the amount of milk slightly to maintain the dough’s consistency.

How do I make my rolls fluffier?
The key is in the kneading and ensuring the dough is not overworked. Watch for that windowpane effect: when you stretch the dough, it should be thin enough to let light through without breaking immediately.

Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can blend whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor. Just remember that whole wheat will absorb more liquid, so you may need to adjust the milk quantity.

What if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can use active dry yeast, but you will need to proof it in the warm milk with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the other ingredients.

Can these rolls be made vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use almond or soy milk, and replace the egg with an aquafaba or a flaxseed mixture to bind.

A Final Thought

Garlic bread rolls are a beautiful way to connect with family traditions, invoke memories, and create new experiences around the table. As this recipe finds a place in your kitchen, let each batch be a reminder of the warmth and love that comes from sharing food with those you cherish.

With each roll, you are not just serving a dish; you are serving a story, an experience that enriches your home and binds hearts together. In the end, it’s all about the moments shared and the flavors that linger long after the meal is over. May every garlic bread roll you bake bring a little piece of home to your table and warm your heart in the same way it has warmed mine.

Garlic Bread Rolls

Delicious and aromatic garlic bread rolls that evoke family tradition, perfect alongside pasta or soups.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12 rolls

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Italian

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Dough Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Good quality flour lends delightful texture.
• 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter Melted for the dough and topping.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast For the dough to rise.
• 1 cup whole or 2% milk Warmed to about 110°F.
• 1 large egg Room temperature for better mixing.
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt Enhances flavor.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Balances flavors.
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley Enhances flavor.

Garlic Topping

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For the topping.
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic For added flavor.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley To garnish the topping.
• to taste Flaky sea salt For finishing.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set it aside.
2. In a small pot, melt 4 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant, then remove from heat and cool.
3. In a stand mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour, 3 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sea salt.
4. Add the warmed milk, 1 egg, and the cooled garlic butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Knead on low speed with the dough hook until smooth and tacky, about 10-12 minutes.

Shaping and Rising

1. Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal portions, about 67 grams each. Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
2. Place the dough balls into the prepared baking pan, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let them rise in a warm location until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.

Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg wash. Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.
3. Prepare the garlic butter topping by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, adding the remaining garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat and stir in parsley.
4. Upon removing the rolls from the oven, immediately brush them with garlic butter and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g

Notes

For softer rolls, substitute a portion of all-purpose flour with bread flour. These rolls can also be made vegan. To store leftovers, cool completely and store in an airtight container; they last for 2-3 days.

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