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
Scale
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.
