A detailed, expert-level recipe for achieving the softest, most flavorful homemade garlic bread rolls, perfect as a side for any Italian or comfort meal.
1 cup (240ml) whole milk, slightly warmed
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly (for the dough)
2 large eggs, beaten
4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt (for the dough)
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted (for the topping)
4 large cloves of fresh garlic, minced very finely
1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (for the topping)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for five to ten minutes until foamy.
2. Form the Shaggy Dough: Introduce the melted butter and eggs to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour and salt. Mix until a shaggy mass forms.
3. Knead and First Proof: Knead the dough for six to eight minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for one to one and a half hours, until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Rolls: Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide and shape into sixteen uniform rolls. Place them in a nine-by-thirteen inch baking dish.
5. Second Proof and Preheat Oven: Cover the rolls and allow them to rest and proof again for thirty to forty-five minutes. Preheat your oven to three hundred seventy-five Fahrenheit.
6. Prepare and Apply Garlic Butter: Mix the remaining melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, olive oil, and salt. Brush about two-thirds of this mixture over the tops of the rolls.
7. Bake and Serve: Bake for eighteen to twenty-two minutes until deeply golden brown. Immediately brush the hot rolls with the remaining garlic butter topping and serve warm.
Always measure flour by weight for the best texture.
For a cold, slow rise, refrigerate the dough after the first knead for up to 12 hours.
Reheat leftover rolls wrapped in foil in a three hundred fifty Fahrenheit oven for about five to eight minutes.
Find it online: https://www.flavourrecipe.com/garlic-bread-rolls/