How to Make Herby Garlic Dinner Rolls with Rosemary and Thyme

If you’re craving something soft, buttery, and packed with fresh herbal flavor, then you’ve hit the jackpot with these Herby Garlic Dinner Rolls with Rosemary and Thyme. These rolls bring a fragrant herbal twist to your table, pairing the aromatic blend of rosemary and thyme with rich garlic and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for complementing any meal, from rustic soups to elegant dinners, this recipe is a must-try if you want that cozy, homemade bread experience with a burst of garden-fresh flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate softness: These rolls are incredibly tender and fluffy, giving you that perfect bite every time.
• Herbal aroma: Fresh rosemary and thyme infuse the dough, filling your kitchen with irresistible fragrance.
• Simple ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find items—everything is beginner-friendly and accessible.
• Versatile accompaniment: Pairing beautifully with everything from hearty stews to festive meals.
• Impress your guests: Homemade, herby, and garlicky rolls that look and taste like you put in serious effort (but you didn’t).

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a major role in creating those soft, flavorful Herby Garlic Dinner Rolls with Rosemary and Thyme. From fresh herbs to rich butter, every component is essential for taste, texture, and visual appeal.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, airy crumb texture.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise perfectly light and fluffy.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and aids in dough formation.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of subtle sweetness.
• Salt: Balances flavors and strengthens the dough’s structure.
• Fresh rosemary: Adds piney, woodsy notes directly into the dough.
• Fresh thyme: Brings a slightly minty, savory aroma that pairs perfectly with rosemary.
• Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse a bold, aromatic garlicky flavor.
• Butter: Melted and brushed over rolls for richness and golden color.
• Milk: Optional but recommended for a tender crumb and slight sweetness.

Variations for Herby Garlic Dinner Rolls with Rosemary and Thyme

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your mood, pantry, or dietary needs. The base is flexible and welcomes tweaks to make it uniquely yours without sacrificing that essential herby garlic magic!

• Cheesy upgrade: Add shredded parmesan or mozzarella to the dough or sprinkle on top before baking.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Spicy twist: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes with the herbs for subtle heat.
• Herb swap: Swap rosemary and thyme for other herbs like basil, oregano, or sage depending on your preference.
• Garlic infused oil: Use garlic-infused olive oil instead of butter for brushing the tops for a different layer of flavor.

How to Make Herby Garlic Dinner Rolls with Rosemary and Thyme

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Start by combining warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture is frothy, signaling that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the fresh rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic to distribute the herbs evenly. Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and milk, then mix until the dough just starts to come together.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. This kneading develops the gluten, critical for creating those pillowy soft rolls.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into equal-sized portions and shape each into a smooth ball. Arrange them closely on a greased baking pan or lined sheet, which encourages soft sides and beautiful pull-apart rolls.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls loosely and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.

Step 7: Bake and Brush

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Immediately brush the hot rolls with melted butter to keep them moist and add a shiny, flavorful finish.

Pro Tips for Making Herby Garlic Dinner Rolls with Rosemary and Thyme

• Choose fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme have much more vibrant flavor than dried, really enhancing the rolls.
• Don’t skip kneading: Proper kneading ensures that soft, airy interior everyone loves.
• Check water temperature: Water should be warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
• Cover during rises: Keep a damp cloth or plastic wrap over the dough to prevent drying out.
• Brush with butter right away: Applying butter as soon as they come out of the oven locks in moisture.

How to Serve Herby Garlic Dinner Rolls with Rosemary and Thyme

Garnishes

Before serving, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs or a light dusting of sea salt on top for extra fresh flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair wonderfully with homemade soups, salads, roasted vegetables, or a hearty stew—really, any meal that benefits from an herbal, garlicky bread companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the rolls in a rustic basket lined with a cloth napkin for a cozy feel, or place them on a wooden board with small bowls of herb butter or olive oil for dipping. They also make fantastic mini sandwich bases when split and filled with meats or cheeses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days, ensuring they stay soft and fresh.

Freezing

Wrap cooled rolls individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. For extra softness, lightly cover with foil or brush with a little butter before warming.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh rosemary and thyme?

Yes, dried herbs work too but use about one-third of the amount called for fresh, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

Do I have to add garlic to the dough?

You can reduce or omit garlic if you prefer a milder flavor, but the garlic truly complements the herbs and adds a wonderful depth.

How long do the rolls stay fresh?

Stored properly, these rolls stay soft and fresh for 2 days at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk to keep them vegan-friendly.

What’s the best flour for these rolls?

All-purpose flour is ideal for light, soft rolls, but bread flour adds extra chewiness if you prefer a denser texture.

Final Thoughts

These Herby Garlic Dinner Rolls with Rosemary and Thyme are pure comfort in bread form—full of fresh herb fragrance and warming garlic that can brighten any meal. They’re surprisingly simple to make but remarkably impressive once baked. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to homemade rolls that will quickly become a household favorite!

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