Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls Recipe

These Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls are the ultimate indulgence—soft, pillowy dough swirled with golden, roasted garlic butter, melty mozzarella, and a finish that will have your kitchen smelling like absolute heaven. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and an unforgettable cheesy bite, this is a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls lies in its straightforward yet purposeful ingredient list. Every item has its moment to shine—creating everything from the softest dough to the most irresistible cheesy filling. Here’s the lineup you don’t want to skip!

• Garlic Head: Roasting a whole head brings out deep sweetness and transforms the flavor into something rich and mellow.
• Olive Oil: Adds extra richness to your roasted garlic, plus keeps the butter from burning when baked.
• Butter: Both in the dough and for the garlic butter, it creates that luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth taste and tender crumb.
• Fresh Parsley: Brightens everything up and adds a hint of fresh flavor in every bite.
• Warm Milk: Feeds the yeast for the softest, fluffiest rise.
• Active Dry Yeast: This is your roll’s lifeblood—no rise, no fluff!
• Honey: Gives the dough a delicate sweetness and supports yeast activity for a perfect rise.
• All-Purpose & Bread Flour: This combo delivers the ideal soft yet chewy texture.
• Milk Powder (Optional): Boosts that milky flavor and tenderness without adding liquid.
• Egg Yolks: Enriches the dough and adds fabulous color.
• Salt & Sugar: Brings out flavors and balances every bite—don’t leave these out!
• Mozzarella Cheese: The ultimate cheese pull factor; fresh mozzarella recommended for gooey perfection.
• Egg (for Egg Wash): Adds shine and helps the top turn a beautiful golden brown.

Variations

The wonderful thing about Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls is how easily they adapt to your favorite flavors or dietary needs! Don’t be afraid to experiment—just a swap or two, and this recipe becomes your own signature creation.

• Cheese Swap: Try shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a totally new flavor profile.
• Herb Boost: Mix chopped chives or basil into the garlic butter alongside parsley for an even more aromatic roll.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute up to half the flour for whole wheat for a nuttier, heartier bite (just add an extra splash of milk if it feels dry).
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and skip the egg wash—or brush with a little non-dairy milk for shine—to fit your lifestyle.

How to Make Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Start by cutting the top off a whole head of garlic and placing it in a small ramekin. Drizzle it generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Cover tightly with foil and roast at 160°C (320°F) for about 2 hours. The result is golden, sweet, and utterly spreadable garlic—no biting pungency, just pure flavor!

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

Once the garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze out those caramelized cloves and mash them together with softened butter, a big spoonful of the delicious garlic oil from roasting, and freshly chopped parsley. Set aside—this will be your magic “swirl.”

Step 3: Activate the Yeast

Combine the warm milk, yeast, and honey in a mixing bowl. Let it stand for about 10 minutes until bubbly and frothy. This step guarantees rolls that puff up light and airy.

Step 4: Make and Knead the Dough

In a stand mixer, add your flours, sugar, milk powder, butter, salt, egg yolks, and the foamy yeast mixture. Knead with a dough hook on medium for 15–20 minutes, until the dough is elastic, smooth, and just slightly tacky—you want that springiness!

Step 5: Proof the Dough

Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This slow rise makes every roll super fluffy and soft.

Step 6: Roll Out and Fill

Roll the proofed dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 cm thick. Spread your homemade garlic butter all over, reaching every edge, then scatter the mozzarella cheese in an even layer for maximum cheese pull in every roll.

Step 7: Shape and Slice

Starting with the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log, then, using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut it into 6 equal pieces. Place each piece, swirl side up, onto your prepared baking tray.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the tray and let the rolls puff up for another 30 minutes. This short, final proof ensures your Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls will rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 9: Bake and Finish

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Brush the rolls with egg wash for that glossy finish, then bake for 20–25 minutes until deep golden brown and bubbling. As soon as they’re out, slather on any leftover garlic butter and shower with extra parsley—perfection!

How to Serve Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls

Garnishes

A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives not only adds a pop of green but also elevates the rolls’ taste. For a little extra flair, try a dusting of flaky sea salt or a shower of finely grated parmesan right after baking for an irresistible finish.

Side Dishes

Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls are the ultimate companion to soups, stews, and pasta—especially anything tomato-sauced or creamy. They’re a dreamy side to roast chicken, salads, or even a simple plate of eggs for a decadent brunch treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these beauties nestled in a cozy breadbasket, or on a wooden board lined with parchment for a rustic, shareable vibe. For parties, bake the rolls in a cast-iron skillet and let guests pull them apart, cheesy string and all!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, or refrigerate for up to four days—just be sure they’re fully cooled to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap fully baked (and thoroughly cooled) rolls individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

For that just-baked glow, reheat Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls in a 160°C (325°F) oven for about 5–8 minutes until warm and melty. A quick zap in the microwave works too—but always cover with a damp paper towel so they stay soft!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for comfort food bliss, you simply have to try these Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls. I can’t wait for you to bite into the soft dough and taste that smoldering, garlicky cheese swirl—sharing is optional, but I guarantee everyone will beg for another batch!

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