If you’ve ever craved soft, pillowy bread bursting with cheesy, garlicky goodness, then this Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These irresistible rolls combine the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread with melty mozzarella and cheddar, all wrapped in a warm garlic butter glaze that’s pure heaven. Perfect for family dinners, weekend brunches, or any time you want to impress guests with minimal effort, these rolls deliver incredible flavor and texture in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to making these delicious rolls come alive. Each ingredient adds its own magic—from the soft elasticity of the dough to the rich, oozy cheese and the fragrant touch of garlic and parsley on top. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own batch of these tasty rolls:
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour: The heart of the dough, providing structure and that perfect chewy softness.
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet): The secret agent that makes your dough rise beautifully and become fluffy.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Helps activate the yeast and adds a subtle hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the cheesy richness.
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F): Keeps the dough tender and supports yeast activation.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted): Contributes to the dough’s softness and buttery flavor.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness and improves the dough’s texture.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Delivers that classic gooey, stretchy cheese experience.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and depth to the cheesy filling.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for brushing): For brushing on top to create a shiny, flavorful crust.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the rolls with an irresistible aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and brightens the flavor.
How to Make Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining the warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and foamy—this means the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic on your dough.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Once the yeast mixture is foamy, stir in the melted butter, egg, and salt until everything is well combined. Gradually add the flour while mixing, until a soft dough begins to form. This dough should be a little sticky but manageable, a perfect base for soft rolls.
Step 3: Knead and Rise
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes until it turns smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten, ensuring your rolls have that tender, chewy texture you crave. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Shape and Fill the Rolls
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out into a rectangle approximately 12 by 18 inches. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the surface for a gooey cheesy center in every bite.
Step 5: Roll and Slice
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough up tightly like a jelly roll. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal-sized rolls. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes to become extra fluffy.
Step 6: Bake and Brush with Garlic Butter
Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the rolls for 18 to 22 minutes until golden brown and invitingly fragrant. While baking, mix the melted butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, generously brush this garlic butter over the top to amplify all the savory flavors and add a beautiful glossy shine.
How to Serve Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Add a little extra flair by sprinkling some finely chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a touch of warmth for those who enjoy a little kick.
Side Dishes
These homemade rolls are perfect alongside soups like creamy tomato or hearty chicken noodle, salads with crisp greens, or as a side to your favorite pasta dishes. The cheesy, garlicky rolls can effortlessly elevate any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a platter to create a “pull-apart” centerpiece, great for sharing at gatherings. You can also cut them in half and use them as sandwich buns for sliders filled with your favorite deli meats and veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover rolls, place them in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to two days. They stay soft and delicious, ready for a quick snack or to accompany your next meal.
Freezing
These rolls freeze beautifully once baked. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. This makes a convenient option to enjoy fresh-tasting homemade bread whenever you want.
Reheating
To bring the rolls back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes wrapped in foil, or until warmed through. A quick brush of garlic butter after reheating will freshen the flavor and add that irresistible shine.
FAQs
Can I substitute the mozzarella and cheddar cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap mozzarella for provolone or Monterey Jack for a slightly different taste and melt. You can also mix in some Parmesan for an extra savory note. Just keep in mind that cheese flavors will affect the final taste.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dry parsley is a fine alternative, though fresh parsley gives a brighter flavor and color. You can also use other herbs like chives or basil if you want to experiment.
How do I know if the yeast is active?
If the mixture gets foamy and bubbly within 5 to 10 minutes of combining the yeast, sugar, and warm milk, your yeast is active and ready. If nothing happens, it might be time to try a fresh packet of yeast.
Can I make these rolls without an egg?
Omitting the egg is possible, but it may slightly affect the dough’s elasticity and richness. Consider adding a little extra butter or a tablespoon of yogurt to keep the dough tender.
Is it okay to add red pepper flakes? How much?
Definitely! A pinch or up to ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes sprinkled on the cheese before rolling adds a nice warmth without overpowering the garlic and cheese flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so rewarding about pulling warm, cheesy, garlicky rolls fresh from your own oven, and this Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe makes that easy and absolutely worthwhile. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family meal or a crowd-pleasing side at your next gathering, these rolls offer flavor, comfort, and that irresistible homemade touch. Go ahead, dive in, and share the love with every delicious bite!
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Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls are soft, fluffy, and bursting with cheesy garlic flavor. Made with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, these pull-apart rolls are perfect as a side dish for dinners or as a savory snack. The dough is enriched with butter and egg for a tender crumb, and topped with a fragrant garlic parsley butter for an irresistible finish.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
Cheese Filling
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: Add melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle about 12 by 18 inches. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the dough surface.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 12 even rolls.
- Second Rise: Arrange the rolls cut side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes to puff up.
- Preheat Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: While the rolls bake, mix the melted butter with minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley.
- Brush Rolls: Immediately after removing the rolls from the oven, brush the hot rolls generously with the garlic parsley butter to infuse them with flavor and shine.
- Serve: Serve the garlic cheese rolls warm for the best taste and texture experience.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella cheese with provolone or add a pinch of red pepper flakes in the filling for a spicy kick.
- These rolls freeze well after baking; to enjoy later, reheat them in the oven to restore freshness and softness.
