If you have ever wished for a warm, gooey, and aromatic treat that feels like a comforting hug fresh from the oven, this Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe is absolutely your new go-to. Combining the irresistible scent of garlic with the melty goodness of cheese nestled inside soft, pillowy rolls, these are a game-changer for any meal or snack time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting friends, or craving a cozy bite, these rolls deliver farmhouse charm with every bite that’s both delightfully simple and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient plays a unique role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in these rolls. From the warm milk that nurtures the yeast to the fresh garlic infusing every bite with zest, these essentials come together effortlessly to make magic happen.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The hearty base that forms the soft but sturdy structure of each roll.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Just enough sweetness to feed the yeast and enhance browning.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet): The powerhouse that makes the dough rise and become wonderfully fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the aroma of garlic and cheese.
- 1 cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted: Adds tender texture and a subtle buttery flavor to the dough.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and gives the dough a tender crumb.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: The star flavor, providing that unforgettable garlicky punch inside and out.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted for brushing: Brushed on top to achieve a golden, shiny crust with extra garlic goodness.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Melty and gooey, this is what makes each bite cheesy perfection.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness as a finishing touch.
How to Make Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. This creates the dry foundation for your dough, ensuring the yeast has a balanced environment to work its magic while seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, and the egg. The warmth of the milk will wake up the yeast, while butter and egg enrich the dough’s flavor and texture, making your rolls irresistibly tender.
Step 3: Form the Dough and Knead
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir them together until a dough forms, then knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This kneading develops the gluten that gives structure to the rolls, which bakes up fluffy yet sturdy.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Cover the dough loosely with a clean towel and leave it in a warm spot for an hour, until it has doubled in size. Watching the dough puff up is always rewarding, knowing you’re one step closer to those pillowy rolls.
Step 5: Prepare the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide it into 12 equal portions. Flatten each piece gently and sprinkle some minced garlic and shredded cheese on top. Roll each portion back into a tight ball, sealing that cheesy garlic treasure inside.
Step 6: Final Touches and Baking
Place the rolls on the baking sheet spaced evenly, then brush each with the remaining melted butter. This brush gives the rolls a golden, glossy finish and a burst of buttery garlic flavor as they bake. Slide them into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the tops are beautifully golden and cheese inside has melted to perfection.
How to Serve Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley over the hot rolls is a simple way to brighten the look and taste. The fresh herb adds a lovely contrast to the richness of cheese and garlic, making every bite inviting and balanced.
Side Dishes
These garlic cheese rolls pair beautifully with classic soups like tomato basil or creamy potato leek, complement salads with crisp greens, or even alongside hearty pasta dishes. Their rich, cheesy flavor is perfect to scoop up sauces or soak in a warm bowl of stew.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange these rolls in a circular pattern on a large platter with a small bowl of garlic butter or marinara sauce in the center for dipping. Or serve them warm wrapped in a cozy cloth basket, inviting everyone to pull apart the soft rolls and savor their fresh-baked goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that rarely happens!), store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature. They stay soft for about 2 days, perfect for enjoying as a quick snack or reheating to bring back their fresh-baked magic.
Freezing
To enjoy these rolls later, freeze them after baking and cooling completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to revive that soft, cheesy texture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in your oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This method restores the fresh-from-the-oven softness and melty cheese, making them taste almost as good as the first time out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in the Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are classics for melty texture and flavor, feel free to experiment with gouda, provolone, or a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist. Mixing cheeses can add delicious complexity.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic on hand? Can I use garlic powder?
Fresh garlic has the best flavor and aroma for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, a teaspoon of garlic powder can work. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be milder and less vibrant than fresh minced garlic.
Is it possible to make these rolls gluten-free?
Gluten-free baking requires different flour blends and techniques, so modifications are needed. While this recipe isn’t designed for gluten-free, you could try a high-quality gluten-free baking mix and add xanthan gum, but expect some changes in texture.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
After about an hour, the dough should roughly double in volume and look puffy and airy. You can perform a simple “poke test” by gently pressing your finger into the dough—if it springs back slowly, it’s ready to shape.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor?
Definitely! Adding finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of chili flakes into the dough or on top can add a delightful extra layer of flavor that complements the garlic and cheese beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the warm pull-apart softness and savory garlic cheese center of these rolls that makes them an instant favorite. The Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe is perfect for sharing or savoring solo, and once you try them, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible smell and taste that only fresh-baked rolls can bring!
Print
Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These homemade garlic cheese rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with melted mozzarella or cheddar cheese and fragrant garlic. Perfect as a savory snack or a delightful side for any meal, they combine the comforting flavors of cheesy bread with the aromatic punch of fresh garlic. Easy to make from scratch, these rolls rise to a golden perfection and are ideal for parties or family dinners.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling & Topping
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, and egg until fully blended.
- Knead the Dough: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Knead the mixture for 8 to 10 minutes until a smooth and elastic dough forms. This may be done by hand or with a mixer fitted with a dough hook.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Divide and Fill Rolls: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion gently, sprinkle a little minced garlic and shredded cheese onto it, then roll each into a tight ball, sealing the cheese and garlic inside.
- Arrange and Brush: Place the formed rolls spaced apart onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with the remaining melted butter to help achieve a golden crust.
- Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the cheese inside has melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the hot rolls just before serving for added flavor and color. Serve warm for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a more intense garlic flavor, you can add roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic to the filling.
- These rolls are best enjoyed warm. To restore softness after refrigeration, reheat in the oven wrapped in foil at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
