Description
Cheesy Garlic Rolls
Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In another bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Rolls:
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8-10 equal portions. Flatten each portion, place a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella in the center, and pinch the dough around the cheese to form a ball. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish.
3. Bake the Rolls:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Mix the minced garlic with melted butter and brush it over the rolls. Sprinkle dried Italian herbs if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, brush with additional melted butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
5. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness of these garlic rolls!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Activate the Yeast: Combine the warm milk (around 110°F), sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, proving the yeast is active.
2. Mix & Knead: In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and salt. Pour the frothy yeast mixture and the 2 tablespoons of melted butter into the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Fill & Shape: Punch down the risen dough. Divide into 8-10 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small disc, place a tablespoon of cheese in the center, and gather the edges, pinching them tightly to seal the cheese inside. Place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
5. Second Rise & Flavor: Let the shaped rolls rest for 15-20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Mix the 2 tablespoons of melted butter with the minced garlic. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls and sprinkle with Italian herbs.
6. Bake & Finish: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Immediately out of the oven, brush with a little more butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm as a standout appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping. They are the perfect side dish for pasta dishes like spaghetti bolognese or a creamy fettuccine alfredo, soaking up extra sauce beautifully. For a cozy meal, pair them with a hearty soup or stew. To elevate them, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese right after baking or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle kick.
How-to Summary
Activate yeast in warm milk and sugar. Mix with flour, salt, and butter to form a dough; knead and let rise. Divide dough, fill each piece with mozzarella, and shape into sealed balls. Let rolls rest, then brush with a garlic-butter mixture. Bake at 350°F until golden. Finish with a final brush of butter and fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry? Yes. You can mix instant yeast directly with the dry ingredients. Skip the initial frothing step and proceed, ensuring your liquid is still warm.
How can I make these ahead of time? Prepare the dough and shape the rolls. Cover the baking dish tightly and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then apply the garlic butter and bake.
My dough didn’t rise. What went wrong? The most common culprit is expired yeast or liquid that was too hot (which kills yeast) or too cold (which won’t activate it). Ensure your milk is just warm to the touch, around 110°F.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. A blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar works well for more flavor. For a stretchier texture, try part-skim mozzarella or provolone.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore softness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Hot Milk: Liquid that is too hot will kill the yeast. Aim for warm, not hot.
- Not Sealing the Cheese Properly: Pinch the dough seams tightly to prevent cheese from leaking out during baking.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Place rolls with a little space between them to allow for expansion and even browning.
- Overbaking: Bake just until golden brown. Overbaking can dry out the rolls and harden the cheese inside.
- Skipping the Final Butter Brush: This step adds crucial flavor and a beautiful sheen, so don’t omit it.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Garlic Rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining soft, fluffy dough with a gooey, cheesy center and aromatic garlic butter. While the process requires some time for the dough to rise, the steps are straightforward and the result is immensely rewarding. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this impressive homemade bake. Perfect for any gathering or a special family dinner, these rolls are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection.