Herbed Butter Rolls

The first time I made these Herbed Butter Rolls, the smell alone made me smile. Warm, buttery, and filled with fresh herbs—they came out soft and golden. I couldn’t stop pulling them apart and dipping them in more butter.

What I love most is how easy they are to make, even on busy days. The dough is soft, and the herbs give it that cozy homemade flavor. They’re perfect for dinner, holidays, or honestly, just because.

Now, every time I bake them, it feels like comfort in every bite. They’re fluffy, buttery, and melt in your mouth. These rolls always bring a little warmth to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Yet Elegant: These rolls are straightforward to make but look and taste bakery-worthy.
• Incredible Flavor: Butter and fresh herbs combine for a fragrant, mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for soups, stews, pasta dishes, or even as a standalone snack.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh when needed.
• Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is foolproof!

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Whisk: To ensure smooth mixing.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
• Stand Mixer (Optional): Makes kneading the dough a breeze.
• Rolling Pin: For shaping the dough.
• Baking Dish or Sheet: To bake the rolls evenly.
• Pastry Brush: For applying herbed butter.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these buttery rolls:

For the Dough:

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 ½ cups (plus extra for kneading)
• Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Instant Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet)
• Warm Milk: 1 cup (110°F)
• Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted
• Egg: 1 large

For the Herbed Butter:

• Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
• Fresh Rosemary: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
• Fresh Thyme: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon
• Salt: A pinch

Variations for Herbed Butter Rolls

• Cheesy Rolls: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or cheddar over the rolls before baking.
• Garlic Lovers: Add minced fresh garlic to the herbed butter for a stronger flavor.
• Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Sweet Herb Twist: Use honey and cinnamon instead of garlic and herbs for a sweet version.
• Vegan-Friendly: Replace milk with almond or oat milk, butter with plant-based butter, and skip the egg.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and active.

2. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.

3. Let the Dough Rise

1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

4. Shape the Rolls

1. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12-15 equal portions.
2. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them in a greased baking dish, spaced slightly apart.

5. Second Rise

1. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30-40 minutes until puffy.

6. Prepare the Herbed Butter

1. While the rolls are rising, mix the melted butter with parsley, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl.

7. Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the rolls generously with herbed butter.
3. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

8. Finish with More Butter

1. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them with more herbed butter for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve Herbed Butter Rolls

These rolls shine in any setting:

• With Soups: Pair with creamy tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, or a hearty beef stew.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or pasta dishes.
• Snack Time: Enjoy with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a quick treat.
• Sandwiches: Slice them in half and stuff with your favorite fillings for mini sliders.

Storing and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep rolls in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Roll
Calories	~160
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	3.5g
Carbohydrates	22g
Protein	4g
Sodium	170mg

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes! Substitute 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. After the first rise, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How can I tell if the rolls are fully baked?

Tap the top of a roll; if it sounds hollow, they’re done. Alternatively, use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature is 190°F (88°C).