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Buttery cheese garlic rolls freshly baked and served warm

Buttery Cheese Garlic Rolls

These aromatic, melty rolls are the perfect blend of butter, garlic, and cheese, making them an irresistible side that steals the show.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 240

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Substitute with 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for GF version
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 cup warm milk 110°F / 43°C; substitute with unsweetened almond milk for lighter flavor
  • 2 tbsp sugar or honey For yeast activation
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened Plus 4 tbsp for garlic butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar Or mozzarella for stretch
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Or 1 tsp garlic powder if in a pinch
  • 1 tsp salt
For the Topping
  • 4 tbsp garlic butter For brushing and basting
  • Fresh parsley or chives For garnish

Method
 

Activate yeast and mix dough
  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in softened butter, egg, and salt. Mix in flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
First rise
  1. Knead lightly for 4–6 minutes until smooth (or mix with a stand mixer for 3 minutes).
  2. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled (45–60 minutes).
Shape and fill
  1. Punch down dough and roll into a rectangle on a floured surface.
  2. Spread softened garlic butter, sprinkle shredded cheese, and roll tightly into a log.
  3. Slice into 12 rolls and place in a greased pan.
Second rise and bake
  1. Let shaped rolls rise 20–30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Brush with more garlic butter, bake 15–18 minutes until golden.
  3. Brush again with butter and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

For a tangy twist, use buttermilk instead of milk. Freeze portions of pre-shaped rolls on a sheet tray, then transfer to a bag; bake straight from freezer with 5–7 extra minutes. Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.