Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are a savory twist on classic cinnamon rolls—soft, fluffy yeast rolls rolled up with a buttery garlic and herb filling, baked until golden brown in a cast iron skillet. They’re rich, flavorful, and perfect for holidays or any dinner where you want to impress. Infused with parmesan cheese, herbs, and fresh garlic, every bite is bursting with comfort.
Ingredients
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Bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
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Unsalted butter
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Buttermilk
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Active dry yeast
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Warm water
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White sugar
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Egg
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Olive oil
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Minced garlic
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Dried basil
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Dried oregano
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Black pepper
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Salt
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Grated parmesan cheese
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Egg yolk (for filling)
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Egg white (for egg wash)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Activate the Yeast: Combine yeast, warm water, and a pinch of sugar in a mixing bowl and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: Melt butter, whisk with buttermilk, then add to the yeast mixture along with sugar and egg.
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Form the Dough: Combine dry ingredients and knead until smooth. Let rise until doubled.
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Make Garlic Filling: Cook garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then mix with butter, herbs, and cheese.
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Assemble the Rolls: Roll out dough, spread garlic mixture over it, roll tightly, and cut into slices.
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Second Rise: Arrange in a skillet and let rise again until puffy.
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Bake: Brush with egg wash and bake until golden brown.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: About 12 rolls
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Prep Time: 25 minutes
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Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
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Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
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Total Time: About 2.5 hours
Variations
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Cheesy Rolls: Add extra mozzarella or fontina for gooier rolls.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the filling.
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Sweet Twist: Swap garlic filling for cinnamon sugar for a classic sweet roll.
Storage/Reheating
Store rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4. Reheat in a warm oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave individual rolls for about 20 seconds.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise once, and refrigerate it overnight before shaping and baking.
Can I use store-bought dough?
You can, but the homemade version delivers a richer flavor and better texture.
What type of pan is best?
A cast iron skillet helps create a crispy exterior, but any round baking dish works.
Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, freeze before baking or after baking (once cooled), and reheat as needed.
Do I have to use buttermilk?
You can substitute with milk mixed with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar.
Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Yes, but freshly minced garlic offers stronger flavor.
What herbs can I substitute?
Use Italian seasoning or mix your own blend based on preference.
How do I know the rolls are done?
They should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped lightly.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just use a larger pan or multiple pans.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Parmesan adds a salty punch, but asiago or pecorino also work well.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are an irresistible addition to any meal. With soft, fluffy layers infused with a garlicky, herby filling, they’re the kind of rolls that disappear fast. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just to elevate your everyday dinner, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite.
