There is nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. These Garlic and Herb Dinner Rolls are incredibly soft, pillow-soft, and packed with the vibrant flavors of fresh rosemary, thyme, and a touch of cracked black pepper. Whether you are serving them alongside a cozy family dinner or showcasing them on your culinary blog, this foolproof recipe delivers bakery-quality results every single time.
Prep time: 25 mins | Rise time: 1 hr 20 mins | Bake time: 20 mins | Yields: 12 Rolls
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Herb-Infused Dough:
- 4 cups (500g) All-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
- 1 packet (7g / 2.25 tsp) Active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp Granulated sugar (to activate the yeast)
- 1.5 tsp Fine sea salt
- 1 large Egg (at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup (60g) Unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) Whole milk, warmed to about 43°C (110°F)
- 1 tbsp Fresh rosemary, finely minced
- 1 tbsp Fresh thyme leaves, finely minced
- 1/2 tsp Freshly cracked black pepper
For the Perfect Golden Crust:
- 1 large Egg (beaten with 1 tbsp of water for the egg wash)
- 1 tbsp White sesame seeds
- 1 tsp Coarse black pepper or everything bagel seasoning (optional)
- 2 tbsp Melted butter mixed with a pinch of garlic powder (for brushing right out of the oven)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: The Flavor Marriage & Mixing
In a large glass mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, active dry yeast, sugar, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and the finely chopped fresh rosemary and thyme. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the warm whole milk into the well, followed by the softened butter and the room-temperature egg. Using a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer, gently bring the ingredients together until a shaggy, aromatic dough begins to form.
Step 2: The Art of Kneading & The First Rise
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead with the palms of your hands for about 8 to 10 minutes. You will feel the gluten developing as the dough transforms from sticky to beautifully smooth, supple, and dotted with flecks of green herbs. Shape it into a tight ball. Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has magnificently doubled in size.
Step 3: Shaping to Perfection
Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the air bubbles. Divide the dough evenly into 12 equal portions (use a kitchen scale if you want them perfectly uniform). Roll each portion into a smooth, tight ball by cupping your hand over the dough and moving it in a circular motion against the counter. Place the rolls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about an inch of space between them. Cover loosely and let them rise for a final 20 minutes to get extra fluffy. Brush the tops generously with your egg wash, and sprinkle with white sesame seeds and a pinch of coarse pepper.
Step 4: The Golden Bake
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Slide the baking sheet onto the center rack and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they turn a deep, luxurious golden brown and expand into pull-apart perfection. The moment you pull them out of the oven, brush the tops immediately with the garlic-infused melted butter for a glossy finish and an extra punch of flavor.
Pro-Tip for Creators: When presenting this dish, tear one roll open right in front of the camera to capture the steaming, pillowy interior texture. It makes for the perfect viral social media hook!
