Dessert

Garlic Swirl Rolls Recipe

ByNaomi Fletcher October 14, 2025October 14, 2025

Introduction

Garlic Swirl Rolls are a soft, fluffy bread infused with the rich aroma of garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, these rolls bring a comforting and flavorful touch to any meal. Whether fresh from the oven or warmed later, they’re sure to impress your guests and delight your taste buds.

The image shows a close-up of golden brown garlic butter rolls arranged closely on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Each roll has multiple layers of soft, flaky dough spiraled upward, with a shiny glaze giving them a rich, buttery look. Small green parsley flakes are sprinkled on top and inside the layers, adding a fresh contrast to the warm colors. The rolls have slight crisp edges and tender, light inner dough invitingly visible in the swirl structure. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping (optional):

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Extra parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
Step 2: Add melted butter, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Adjust flour as needed so the dough is soft but not sticky.
Step 4: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Step 6: Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 7: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
Step 8: Spread the garlic butter filling evenly over the dough.
Step 9: Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log, pinch the seams to seal, and slice into 12 equal pieces.
Step 10: Place rolls cut-side up on a greased baking sheet or dish, leaving space between them. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Step 11: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Optionally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the rolls.
Step 12: Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 13: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh yeast and high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
Add shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar to the filling for a cheesy twist.
Try different herbs such as rosemary or thyme to vary the flavor.
Create a warm rising environment by placing the dough in a turned-off oven with the light on.
Use a pizza cutter to slice the rolled dough for clean, even pieces.
If desired, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the warm rolls for subtle sweetness.
Store rolls at room temperature in an airtight container to keep them soft.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled rolls wrapped tightly and thaw before reheating.

Storage

Store Garlic Swirl Rolls at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 days. To keep them longer, refrigerate for up to one week, though they may lose some softness. For extended storage, freeze cooled rolls wrapped individually in plastic wrap inside a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat by thawing at room temperature and warming in the oven. Avoid storing in sealed plastic without ventilation to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A white plate holds seven golden-brown spiral rolls, each with visible layers of soft dough swirled tightly. The outer edges of the rolls have a light crispy crust, while the inner layers look fluffy and tender. Small green herb flecks are scattered over the tops, adding a fresh look. The plate sits on a striped cloth on a wooden board, with some green herbs blurred in the background, all set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast using the same amount. Mix it directly with the flour, and reduce the proofing time slightly since instant yeast activates faster.

How do I know if my dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and look puffy. A simple test is gently pressing your finger into the dough; if the indentation remains, the dough has risen adequately.