Garlic Swirl Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Garlic Swirl Rolls are the ultimate comfort food with their soft, pillowy texture and savory garlic-butter filling. The fresh parsley adds a burst of color and flavor, while the warm, freshly baked rolls fill your home with irresistible aromas. Whether served as a side for dinner or enjoyed on their own, these rolls will leave everyone coming back for more!

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• 2 cups warm milk (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4–5 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
2. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add 4 cups of flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough begins to form. Once combined, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time, until it becomes soft and manageable.
3. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the dough doubles in size.
4. Make the filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the garlic filling by combining softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
5. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
6. Add the filling: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the entire surface of the dough.
7. Form the rolls: Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the rolled dough into 12-15 equal pieces, depending on the size of rolls you want.
8. Second rise: Place the sliced rolls into a greased baking dish or a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the rolls with a cloth and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
9. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through.
10. Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They’re best served warm, but they also keep well for a day or two.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 12-15 rolls
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Rise time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Cheese-filled: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese to the filling for a cheesy garlic roll.
• Herb variation: Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a little heat.
• Vegan version: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk alternative for a dairy-free version.
• Mini rolls: Make smaller rolls by slicing the dough into 20-25 pieces, and reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: To reheat, wrap the rolls in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds per roll.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the recipe the next day.

2. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour for this recipe. Bread flour will give the rolls a slightly chewier texture, but all-purpose flour works well too.

3. Can I make these rolls without yeast?

These rolls rely on yeast to give them their light, fluffy texture. If you don’t have yeast, consider making a quick biscuit or scone-style roll as an alternative.

4. How can I make the rolls more garlicky?

To increase the garlic flavor, you can add more garlic to the filling or sauté the garlic before adding it to the butter for a richer flavor.

5. Can I freeze the rolls before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls after the second rise. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

6. Can I use store-bought garlic butter for the filling?

If you prefer a shortcut, you can use store-bought garlic butter instead of making your own. Just ensure it’s soft enough to spread easily over the dough.

7. How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?

Grease the baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can also coat the pan with a light layer of flour after greasing it.

8. How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls should be golden brown on top, and when tapped lightly, they should sound hollow. You can also check with a toothpick to ensure they’re fully cooked inside.

9. How do I store leftover rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them soft, you can also wrap them in foil before storing.

10. Can I make these rolls into a pull-apart style?

Yes! To make pull-apart rolls, place the slices of dough next to each other in a round or square baking dish. The rolls will bake together, and you can easily tear them apart.

Conclusion

These Garlic Swirl Rolls are the perfect blend of savory, garlicky goodness and soft, fluffy dough. Whether you’re serving them as a side to your favorite meal or enjoying them on their own, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With easy-to-find ingredients and a delicious, irresistible flavor, these rolls will elevate any occasion!

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