Name: Buttery Cheddar Garlic Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 1/4 cups bread flour (divided); 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 package); 2 tablespoons granulated white sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup milk (warmed, not hot); 1/4 cup butter (melted); 1/4 cup water; 1 egg (beaten lightly); 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 7 cloves garlic (minced); Salt & pepper (to taste); 2 cups cheddar cheese (grated); Extra butter (for brushing on top)

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing bread to serve up warm and fresh, this Buttery Cheddar Garlic Rolls Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture soft, pillowy rolls loaded with sharp cheddar and infused with that irresistible garlic butter aroma, baking to a golden perfection. These rolls strike the perfect balance between rich and savory, making them a standout side or the star of your snack table. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or just craving something cozy to nibble on, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth nearby. The bowl shows four stages of dough preparation in separate images: first, dry ingredients including white flour and yeast are inside the bowl; next, a yellow liquid, likely oil or eggs, is poured over the dry mix; then, the ingredients are partially mixed into a thick, sticky dough with a woman’s hand holding a measuring cup of flour above it; finally, a dough hook is kneading the formed dough, which has a smooth and elastic texture. Around the bowl are small white bowls filled with shredded bright orange cheese, yellow liquid, and crushed nuts. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting these rolls right is all about the simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the flour giving structure, the garlic delivering flavor, or the cheddar adding that glorious cheesy punch.

Bread flour (3 1/4 cups, divided): This high-protein flour creates the ideal chewy, tender crumb that defines great rolls.
Instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The secret to that perfect rise and airy texture.
Granulated white sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds just a touch of sweetness, helping the yeast work its magic.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and enhances every flavor in the dough.
Milk, warmed (3/4 cup): Brings tenderness and a slight sweetness to the dough.
Butter, melted (1/4 cup): Adds richness and moistness right into the dough.
Water (1/4 cup): Helps hydrate the flour and activates the yeast.
Egg, beaten lightly (1): Adds structure and a beautiful golden color.
Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Blended with garlic for that unforgettable spread.
Garlic, minced (7 cloves): The star aromatic, bringing that classic garlic punch.
Salt & pepper: To season the garlic butter perfectly.
Cheddar cheese, grated (2 cups): Melts into gooey pockets of cheesy bliss inside the rolls.
Extra butter (for brushing): Makes the crust beautifully soft and flavorful after baking.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Buttery Cheddar Garlic Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining 2 cups of bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in your stand mixer bowl. This gives you the dry foundation for your dough.

Next, add the warmed milk, melted butter, water, and beaten egg. Use the dough hook attachment and gradually add the remaining flour until a shaggy but thick dough forms. This gradual approach prevents the dough from getting too stiff.

Step 2: Knead to Perfection

Keep kneading either with your mixer or by hand until the dough feels smooth and springs back when poked. This means your gluten has developed, making for that perfect chewy texture in the rolls.

Step 3: First Rest

Cover the dough with a barely damp towel and let it rest on the counter for 15 minutes. This short rest relaxes the gluten and makes rolling out much easier later on.

Step 4: Roll and Garlic Butter

Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Now, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, and spread this flavorful mixture evenly across the dough. This step is where the rolls begin to take on their amazing savory identity.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly over the buttered dough, ensuring every bite will have delightful cheesy pockets.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Carefully roll up the dough into a tight log, then cut into 12 equal rolls. Using dental floss for the cuts helps you get perfectly clean slices without squishing the dough.

Step 7: Second Rise

Place the rolls into your baking dish, cover them, and let them rise for about an hour until they become puffy. This rise is what gives the rolls their delightful lightness.

Step 8: Bake and Finish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the rolls for 20 minutes until they’re beautifully browned on top. Remove them from the oven and brush with extra butter immediately for that irresistible shine and extra richness.

How to Serve Buttery Cheddar Garlic Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives over the warm rolls adds a pop of color and a fresh, bright flavor that balances the rich garlic butter and cheese perfectly.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair spectacularly with hearty soups like tomato basil or creamy chicken stew. They also make an excellent side to pasta dishes or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these rolls in a lined basket for a rustic look or arrange them on a wooden board with small bowls of flavored butters or dipping oils. For a party, turn them into sliders with a slice of ham or turkey and a dab of mustard for a fun finger food twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover rolls tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container, then store at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness. Refrigeration can dry them out, so it’s best avoided.

Freezing

You can freeze the rolls either before the second rise or after baking. Wrap them well in foil and then a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. They’ll keep great for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, wrapped in foil to keep them moist. You can also microwave briefly, but the oven will revive that wonderful crust best.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

You can, but bread flour is preferred because of its higher protein content which helps develop gluten for that chewy texture which makes these rolls so delightful.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheddar cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheddar tends to melt better and has a fresher taste since pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that affect the melt.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute dairy milk and butter with plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg or other egg replacer, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

How long do these rolls keep fresh?

They’re best enjoyed the day they’re made but can stay fresh for up to 2 days if stored properly at room temperature.

What’s the best way to get garlic evenly distributed?

Mixing finely minced garlic into melted butter ensures even spreading. Make sure to spread the garlic butter thoroughly before adding cheese for consistent flavor throughout.

Final Thoughts

This Buttery Cheddar Garlic Rolls Recipe is truly one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat. From the wonderfully soft texture to the melty cheddar cheese and fragrant garlic butter, these rolls bring warmth and joy to any meal. If you’re ready to fill your kitchen with the most tantalizing aroma and your table with irresistibly tasty bread, give this recipe a go—you won’t regret it!