Deliciously fragrant and irresistibly gooey, Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls fill the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that will awaken your senses. This recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish, including proofing time, and it works wonders due to its layers of soft dough, garlic-infused butter, and rich cheeses that meld together beautifully.
These rolls are perfect for any cheese lover or anyone who enjoys comforting, hearty meals. They make an excellent side dish for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a tasty snack at any time. You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The rolls boast a fluffy, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
- Roasting the garlic adds a rich sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Freshly grated cheeses create a bubbly, cheesy goodness that everyone loves.
- These rolls are perfect for sharing, making them great for gatherings.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these indulgent rolls.
For the Garlic
- 3 heads garlic, peeled
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of salt
For the Dough
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup (120 ml) warm milk
- 2 ½ tsp (8 g) active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp honey
- Slightly over 1 ¾ cups (230 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (50 g) bread flour
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 ½ tbsp (35 g) soft, unsalted butter
For the Filling
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups (200 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup (45 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
For the Garlic Butter
- 3 ½ tbsp (50 g) soft unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp parsley, chopped
- Pinch of salt
- Previously roasted garlic
For Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
Use any type of cheese you prefer for a twist.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Bread flour can be replaced with all-purpose flour.
- Use any herb in place of parsley.
- Honey can be substituted with sugar.
- Any melting cheese works as a replacement for mozzarella.
How to Make It
Make these savory rolls in just a few simple steps.
Roast the Garlic
Start by roasting the garlic. Peel 3 garlic heads and place them in a ramekin, drizzle 4 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil, and just a pinch of salt. Cover in aluminum foil and bake at 302 F (150 C) for about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Prepare the Dough
Grab a mixing bowl or a stand mixer bowl and combine ½ cup (120 ml) warm milk, 2 ½ tsp (8 g) active dry yeast, and 1 tbsp honey. Stir and let this mixture sit in a warm environment for 10-15 minutes, or until you see a foam layer on top.
Mix the Ingredients
To this mixture, add 2 eggs, slightly over 1 ¾ cups (230 g) all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup (50 g) bread flour, 1 ½ tsp salt, and 1 tbsp granulated sugar. Use a stand mixer with the dough hook attachment and knead the dough on medium-low speed for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, add 2 ½ tbsp (35 g) soft, unsalted butter. Knead for 10 extra minutes. The dough should be very soft and slightly sticky.
Let it Proof
Allow the dough to proof for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours at a temperature of 80.6 F (27 C).
Prepare Fillings
While the dough proofs, chop parsley to have about 4 tbsp, and grate mozzarella to have 2 cups (200 g) and ½ cup (45 g) of parmesan cheese.
Make Garlic Butter
Prepare the garlic butter by mashing 3 ½ tbsp (50 g) soft unsalted butter, 3 tbsp fresh and chopped parsley, a pinch of salt, and the previously roasted garlic in a bowl or plate.
Roll Out the Dough
Roll out the dough and spread the prepared garlic butter over it. Add the 2 cups (200 g) of mozzarella cheese and ½ cup (45 g) of parmesan cheese evenly across the dough.
Shape the Rolls
Cut the dough into 6 strips and roll each one individually. Place them in a prepared pan lined with parchment paper. Let them proof again for 30 more minutes.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 355 F (180 °C), beat one egg to prepare the egg wash, and brush each of the rolls with the egg. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, rolls freeze well for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure your dough is not too dry; it should feel slightly tacky.
- Allow adequate time for the rolls to rise for the best texture.
- Use fresh cheese for enhanced flavor and gooeyness.
- Experiment with different herbs in the garlic butter for variety.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Great as a side for pasta dishes or soups.
