Why Make This Recipe

Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. These rolls are soft, flavorful, and packed with the goodness of roasted garlic and melted mozzarella cheese. They make perfect appetizers for parties, side dishes for meals, or even a tasty snack. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a warm and comforting roll that’s perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls

Ingredients:

1 garlic head
Sprinkle of salt
30 grams olive oil
50 grams butter (softened)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
90 grams warm milk
7 grams active dry yeast
25 grams honey
200 grams all-purpose flour
50 grams bread flour
20 grams milk powder (optional)
25 grams butter (for the rolls)
2 egg yolks
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
200 grams mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Garlic butter we made previously
1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions:

Roast Garlic: In a ramekin, place one whole garlic head (cut off the top). Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, cover with aluminum foil, and roast at 160°C (320°F) for 2 hours until buttery soft.
Garlic Butter: When the garlic is ready, mix it with softened butter, chopped parsley, and 2 tablespoons of the garlic oil. Set aside.
Yeast Mixture: In a bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and honey. Let it proof for about 10 minutes until frothy.
Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, bread flour, sugar, milk powder (if using), softened butter, salt, two egg yolks, and the yeast mixture.
Knead Dough: Use a dough hook attachment on medium speed and knead the dough for 15-20 minutes until soft and smooth.
Proof Dough: Place the dough in a covered bowl and let it proof in a warm place (around 29°C or 85°F) for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
Roll Out Dough: Roll out the dough to about 1/4 cm (or 1/8 inch) thickness. Spread the prepared garlic butter evenly over the surface.
Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, then tightly roll the dough into a log.
Cut Dough: Cut the dough into 6 equal portions using a knife or dental floss.
Second Proof: Place the rolls on a baking sheet, cover, and let them proof for another 30 minutes until puffy.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Brush the rolls with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes (check after 20 minutes).
Decorate: Brush the baked rolls with leftover garlic butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls

These rolls are best served warm and can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce like marinara or your favorite dressing. They pair well with soups, salads, or as a side for pasta dishes.

How to Store Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the oven until warm.

Tips to Make Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls

Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising.
If you want a richer flavor, add more roasted garlic.
Use a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles, such as cheddar or Parmesan.

Variation

You can add herbs like oregano or basil to the garlic butter for an extra flavor boost. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the mozzarella before rolling the dough.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought garlic butter?
Yes, you can use store-bought garlic butter if you’re short on time. However, homemade garlic butter offers a fresher taste.

What if I don’t have bread flour?
You can use all-purpose flour instead. The texture may be slightly different, but the rolls will still turn out delicious.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise the night before. Refrigerate it after kneading and bring it back to room temperature before rolling and baking.