Prepare to elevate your dinner table with these mouthwatering Garlic and Herb Dinner Rolls that will have your guests begging for the recipe! Imagine warm, pillowy soft rolls infused with aromatic garlic and fragrant herbs, fresh from the oven and filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. These Italian-inspired rolls are not just a side dish – they're a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will make you look like a professional chef with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 12 rolls
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, milk, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Add sugar, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried herbs to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Gradually add flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when gently pressed.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth, round roll.
- Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll for expansion.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Optional: Brush the rolls with an egg wash or melted butter for a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Yeast Activation: Ensure your water is warm (not hot) – around 110°F – to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- Rising Environment: Choose a warm, draft-free spot for your dough to rise. A slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a sunny window works perfectly.
- Kneading Technique: Don't rush the kneading process. A full 8-10 minutes develops the gluten, giving your rolls that perfect soft, elastic texture.
- Herb Freshness: While dried herbs work great, you can substitute with fresh herbs for an even more vibrant flavor. Just use about 3 times the amount of fresh herbs.
- Golden Finish: For a professional bakery look, brush the rolls with an egg wash or melted butter before baking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Storage Tip: These rolls are best served warm but can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore their fresh-baked texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 1mg
