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Garlic Parmesan Rolls

These super soft and pillowy garlic Parmesan rolls are made using the tangzhong method, which helps create a light, fluffy texture that stays tender for days. The dough is enriched with milk, butter, and egg for richness, then baked until golden and finished with a buttery garlic herb topping and freshly grated Parmesan.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rise Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 Rolls
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Ingredients
  

The Tangzhong
  • 2 tbsp (20g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (60g) whole milk
The Dough
  • cups (350g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • tsp (7g) instant yeast
  • 1 tsp (6g) salt
  • ½ cup (120g) warm whole milk
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 3 tbsp (45g) unsalted butter softened
Garlic Parmesan Topping
  • ¼ cup (55g) unsalted butter melted
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • cup (30g) freshly grated parmesan
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • stand mixer with dough hook
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups & spoons or kitchen scale
  • 9x13 baking dish
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk together the flour and milk. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until it thickens into a smooth paste. It should resemble a soft pudding.
    Remove from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes before using.
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  3. Add the cooled tangzhong, egg, flour, and salt into the yeast mixture. Using a dough hook, mix on low speed until a shaggy dough begins to form.
  4. With the mixer running, add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time.
    Increase to medium speed and knead for 8–10 minutes.
  5. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm, draft-free space for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 12 equal portions (about 60g each).
    Roll each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath and rotating it against your work surface. Place the dough balls into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  7. Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise again for about 45 minutes.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops lightly with melted butter and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
  9. While the rolls bake, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley.
    As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and a pinch of flaky salt.