Herb & Garlic Swirl Rolls – Fluffy and Flavorful Treat

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These rolls combine everything you want in a side dish—fluffy dough, golden edges, and a savory, herb-infused garlic filling that smells just as good as it tastes. They’re impressive enough for special dinners but easy enough to make anytime. You can even prep them ahead of time and bake them fresh when needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Warm milk or water
• Active dry yeast
• Sugar
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh or dried herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme, or basil)
• Olive oil (optional, for brushing)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm milk or water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in flour and salt to form a dough. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled.
4. Meanwhile, mix softened butter, garlic, and herbs to create the filling. Add Parmesan if using.
5. Once dough has risen, punch it down and roll into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
6. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the surface of the dough.
7. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a log and slice into even rounds (about 1½ inches thick).
8. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined tray. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden and baked through.
11. Brush with melted butter or olive oil if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 rolls.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Bake time: 20 minutes
Total time: about 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Swirl: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the filling for extra richness.
• Spicy Herb Rolls: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Whole Wheat Option: Use half whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.
• Mini Rolls: Make smaller swirls for bite-sized appetizers or party platters.
• Sweet Twist: Replace the filling with cinnamon and brown sugar for a sweet version.

Storage/Reheating

Store rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To reheat, bake at 325°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave individual rolls for 20–30 seconds.
You can freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast without proofing. Just mix it in with the dry ingredients.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, shape the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature and rise before baking.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, pizza dough or crescent roll dough work well in a pinch.

What herbs work best in this recipe?

Parsley, thyme, rosemary, basil, and oregano are all great options.

Do I have to use Parmesan cheese?

No, it’s optional. You can skip it or substitute with another hard cheese.

How do I make the rolls extra soft?

Use whole milk in the dough and avoid overbaking. Brushing with butter after baking also helps.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

Your yeast may be expired, or your liquid may have been too hot or too cold.

Can I bake these in a muffin tin?

Yes, this method helps create uniformly shaped individual rolls with crisp edges.

Are these rolls freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze after baking and reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

What can I serve these with?

They go great with soups, pasta dishes, grilled meats, or as part of a brunch spread.

Conclusion

Herb & Garlic Swirl Rolls are a soft, savory, and delightfully aromatic treat that elevates any meal. With simple ingredients and a swirl of garlicky, herby goodness in every bite, these rolls are sure to become a staple at your table. Bake a batch and enjoy the comfort of homemade bread with big flavor and beautiful presentation.

Herb & Garlic Swirl Rolls – Fluffy and Flavorful Treat

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Herb & Garlic Swirl Rolls are fluffy, buttery bread rolls layered with a savory garlic-herb filling. They’re perfect for serving alongside pasta, soups, roasted meats, or simply enjoyed as a snack.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including rising)
• Yield: 12 rolls
• Category: Bread, Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 cup warm milk or water
3. 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
4. 1 tbsp sugar
5. 1 tsp salt
6. 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
7. 3 cloves garlic, minced
8. 2 tbsp mixed fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme, or basil) or 1 tbsp dried herbs
9. 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
10. 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm milk or water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

1. Stir in flour and salt to form a dough. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Meanwhile, mix softened butter, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan (if using) to create the filling.
4. Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
5. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the dough.
6. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log and slice into 12 rounds.
7. Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined tray. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Brush with olive oil or melted butter after baking. Serve warm.

Notes

1. Use whole milk in the dough for extra softness.
2. Try adding mozzarella or cheddar inside for cheesy rolls.
3. For a spicy version, add chili flakes to the filling.
4. Store-bought pizza dough can be used as a shortcut.
5. Freeze baked rolls for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Calories: 195
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg