Soft Garlic Bread Rolls with Herb Butter are the perfect combination of fluffy, pillowy bread infused with aromatic garlic and topped with a rich, herbaceous butter mixture. This homemade recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen, creating irresistibly tender rolls with a golden, buttery exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. These versatile bread rolls make an excellent side dish for pasta dinners, soups, or any meal that calls for warm, comforting bread. The herb butter melts beautifully into every bite, creating layers of savory flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Key Ingredients for Soft Garlic Bread Rolls with Herb Butter
For the Bread Rolls:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Herb Butter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Soft Garlic Bread Rolls with Herb Butter
These delightful rolls combine the best of both worlds – soft, homemade bread with an incredible herb butter that melts into every bite. The dough comes together easily and rises beautifully, while the herb butter adds restaurant-quality flavor. Total preparation and cooking time is approximately 3 hours, including rising time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let stand for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly. This indicates that your yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and minced garlic. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat all sides. Cover with a damp kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 8-10 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath. Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Second Rise
Cover the shaped rolls with a kitchen towel and let rise for 30-45 minutes until they’re puffy and nearly doubled in size.
Step 6: Prepare the Herb Butter
While the rolls are rising, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, oregano, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using) in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 7: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the risen rolls with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Apply Herb Butter
Remove rolls from the oven and immediately brush or spread the herb butter generously over the warm rolls. The butter will melt beautifully into the bread, creating an irresistible aroma and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Soft Garlic Bread Rolls with Herb Butter
These homemade rolls deliver an incredible tender crumb with layers of garlic and herb flavors that surpass any store-bought version. Making them at home saves money compared to ordering similar rolls at restaurants, while allowing you to control the quality of ingredients.
The herb butter combination of fresh parsley, chives, and oregano creates a complex, aromatic topping that transforms simple bread into something extraordinary. Unlike basic dinner rolls, these have built-in flavor that makes them the star of any meal.
What to Serve Soft Garlic Bread Rolls with Herb Butter With
These versatile rolls pair beautifully with Italian dishes like spaghetti marinara, chicken alfredo, or lasagna. They’re perfect alongside hearty soups such as minestrone, tomato basil, or creamy mushroom soup. For a complete meal, serve them with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and a fresh Caesar salad.
They also make excellent sandwiches when sliced in half and filled with deli meats and cheese. Consider serving them with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, or alongside a charcuterie board for entertaining.
Top Tips for Perfecting Soft Garlic Bread Rolls with Herb Butter
Always check that your water temperature is correct (110°F) – too hot will kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it properly. If you don’t have fresh herbs, substitute with half the amount of dried herbs. For extra softness, brush the rolls with melted butter before the egg wash.
Don’t skip the kneading process, as it develops the gluten structure needed for soft, chewy texture. If your kitchen is cold, create a warm environment for rising by placing the dough near a preheated (then turned off) oven. For deeper garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves before mincing and adding to both the dough and herb butter.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, wrap rolls in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds. For frozen rolls, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The herb butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for up to 3 months. Bring to room temperature before using for easy spreading.
Final Thoughts
These Soft Garlic Bread Rolls with Herb Butter transform any ordinary meal into a special dining experience. The combination of homemade bread’s superior texture and the aromatic herb butter creates a side dish that often becomes the highlight of the meal. With practice, you’ll master the timing and techniques, making these rolls a go-to recipe for impressing family and guests alike.
try also :
- Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad
- Cranberry Brie Bites
- Crispy Sweet Potato Bites
- Matcha Cake Recipe
- find more in Pinterest
Soft Garlic Bread Rolls with Herb Butter FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and completing the second rise.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: Substitute dried herbs using half the amount called for in the recipe. Dried oregano, basil, and parsley work well together.
Q: Can I freeze the unbaked rolls?
A: Absolutely! Shape the rolls, place on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw and let rise before baking.
Q: How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?
A: The rolls should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An instant-read thermometer should register 190°F when inserted into the center of a roll.