If you have ever wished for a warm, cheesy, and aromatic delight fresh from your oven, you are in for a treat with this Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe. Soft, fluffy rolls layered with garlicky butter and loaded with gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan create a harmonious blend of flavors that will captivate your senses. These rolls are not just bread; they are an irresistible comfort food experience that pairs beautifully with any meal or stands out as a scrumptious snack on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make these divine rolls is a joy in itself because the ingredients are straightforward and foundational, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma that define this recipe.
- All-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups): The backbone of the dough providing structure and softness.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The magical agent that makes the dough rise and become delightfully airy.
- Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast and adds a gentle sweetness balancing the savory notes.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all flavors and tightens dough gluten for chewiness.
- Warm milk (1 cup at ~110°F): Activates yeast and enriches the dough with creaminess.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup melted + 1/4 cup softened + 2 tablespoons melted): Adds richness, moisture, and the classic buttery garlic aroma.
- Large egg (1): Binds ingredients and contributes to a tender crumb and golden crust.
- Garlic cloves (3–4 minced total): Infuse the rolls with an irresistible, aromatic punch.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups shredded): Offers creamy meltiness and mild, milky flavor.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup grated): Adds a sharp, nutty contrast complementing the mozzarella.
- Fresh or dried parsley (2 tablespoons chopped fresh or 1 teaspoon dried): Brings a fresh herbaceous brightness to cut through richness.
- Pinch of salt (for topping): Boosts the final layer of flavor and seasoning.
How to Make Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by blooming your yeast — mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy and bubbling; this ensures your rolls will be beautifully fluffy. Then add melted butter, the egg, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Stir everything until it forms a soft dough. Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for about 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is crucial to developing the gluten network that gives the rolls their ideal texture.
Step 2: First Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Leave it in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This first rise makes the dough airy and light, setting the stage for tender, fluffy rolls.
Step 3: Shape and Add Filling
Once risen, punch the dough down gently to release excess air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, roughly 12 by 16 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle minced garlic, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and parsley generously to coat every inch. This rich filling is what turns simple rolls into an unforgettable savory delight.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Now roll the dough tightly from the long edge, forming a neat log. Slice this log into 12 even rolls. Placing the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensure they have room to rise but are close enough to become soft and pull-apart. Cover the dish and let the rolls rise again for 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise ensures the rolls become tender and fluffy once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they develop a gorgeous golden brown color and you see cheese bubbling in all the right places. The aroma filling your kitchen will be utterly irresistible at this point, promising a truly delicious payoff.
Step 6: Apply the Finishing Touch
While the rolls are still warm, mix your topping ingredients — melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt — and brush this flavorful glaze over the tops. This step gives the rolls an extra layer of buttery garlic goodness and a shiny, tempting finish.
How to Serve Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a light dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving adds vibrancy and a visually delightful layer to your rolls. If you love a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes on top can provide a gentle, exciting kick that complements the garlicky richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
These homemade rolls pair beautifully with hearty soups like tomato basil or a creamy mushroom bisque. They are also perfect alongside fresh salads or classic pasta dishes, making them the ultimate sidekick that brings any meal to the next level of comfort and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cheese rolls nestled in a rustic basket lined with a colorful napkin for a casual family meal or gift them wrapped in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming homemade gift. You can even transform them into pull-apart sliders by rolling smaller dough logs and filling with additional ingredients like herbs or sun-dried tomatoes for a party-ready appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place the rolls in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Stored at room temperature, they will keep well for up to three days without losing their softness or flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the unbaked sliced rolls tightly and freeze before the second rise. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw and allow them to complete the second rise before baking. You can also freeze fully baked rolls in an airtight container for up to two months—just reheat before serving.
Reheating
For the best texture and flavor, reheat leftover rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. This refreshes their crispy exterior while keeping the gooey cheese inside perfectly melted. Avoid microwaving, as that can make the rolls chewy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan create a classic combo, feel free to experiment with cheddar, fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack for a fun twist. Just be mindful of melting qualities to keep your rolls gooey and delicious.
How do I know if my yeast is still good?
If your yeast doesn’t foam or bubble after sitting with warm milk and sugar for 10 minutes, it’s likely expired or dead. Using fresh, active yeast is crucial for a good rise and fluffy texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and almond or oat milk. Choose a dairy-free cheese that melts well, and you’ll still get tasty rolls that everyone can enjoy.
Is it okay to add herbs or spices to the dough?
Definitely! Adding dried oregano, basil, or even a bit of chili powder to the dough can add layers of flavor and complement the garlic and cheese beautifully.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes, after kneading, you can refrigerate the dough overnight covered tightly. The slow rise in the fridge will develop flavor and make it easier to handle the next day. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out and filling.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe means welcoming a fabulous, cozy, and downright addictive homemade treat into your kitchen. Whether for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or simply a satisfying snack, these rolls will make every bite feel magical. Roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and enjoy the delicious journey of baking these wonderful garlic cheese rolls right at home. You’re going to love every moment and mouthful!
Print
Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 2 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Bread, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These homemade garlic cheese rolls are soft, fluffy, and loaded with a savory blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses infused with fresh garlic and parsley. Perfect as a side dish or a delicious snack, these rolls are baked to golden perfection with a buttery garlic topping that adds an irresistible aroma and flavor.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
For the filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2–3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
For topping:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy to ensure the yeast is active and ready to leaven the dough.
- Prepare dough: Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand or with a mixer for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, developing gluten for a tender crumb.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size, which indicates the dough is properly fermented.
- Shape dough and add filling: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then roll it out on a floured surface into a large 12×16 inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then evenly sprinkle the minced garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley over the surface.
- Form rolls: Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30 to 45 minutes to allow them to puff up before baking.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and the cheese is melted and bubbling, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Add topping: Mix the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Brush this garlic butter mixture over the warm rolls just before serving to add extra flavor and moisture.
Notes
- These rolls are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven to bring back the soft texture and warm melted cheese.
- For a spicy variation, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter filling or topping.
