Herby Parker House Rolls with Garlic Butter Brush

If you’re craving soft, fluffy rolls with a savory herb twist and a luscious garlic butter finish, these Herby Parker House Rolls with Garlic Butter Brush are exactly what your table needs. Perfectly golden on the outside and tender inside, they’re a delightful upgrade to your dinner spread or ideal for sandwich sliders. The blend of rosemary, thyme, and oregano infuses each bite with aromatic goodness, while the garlic butter glaze adds a mouthwatering shimmer and flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Why Cooks Rave About It

These rolls offer a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. The classic Parker House shape gives them a nostalgic feel, while the mixed herbs elevate the taste beyond your typical dinner roll. The garlic butter brush not only enhances the flavor but keeps the crust tender and shiny. Bakers love how forgiving the dough is, making it approachable even for beginners. Plus, they pair beautifully with soups, stews, or as a side to any holiday feast. In short, once you try these Herby Parker House Rolls with Garlic Butter Brush, they quickly become a household favorite.

Gather These Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – the base for soft, airy rolls
• 2 tablespoons sugar – feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast – for that perfect rise
• 3/4 cup warm water (110°F) – activates the yeast and hydrates the dough
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – adds richness to the dough
• 1 teaspoon salt – balances the flavor
• 1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano) – the secret to that herby punch
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, for brushing – for the garlic butter glaze
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh and fragrant, essential for the garlic butter brush

Before You Start: Equipment

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) – for easier kneading
• Pastry brush – to apply the garlic butter glaze
• 9×13 inch baking dish or similar-sized pan – to bake the rolls
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap – to cover the dough while rising
• Cooling rack – to let the rolls cool evenly

Herby Parker House Rolls with Garlic Butter Brush: How It’s Done

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl or your stand mixer bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and mixed dried herbs. Pour in the melted butter and the yeast mixture. Stir or mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes by hand on a lightly floured surface or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly and fold in half to create the classic Parker House roll shape. Arrange the rolls close together in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls loosely and let them rise again until puffed and nearly doubled, about 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Garlic Butter Brush

While the rolls are rising, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the minced garlic and let it infuse for a few minutes. This flavorful butter will be brushed on the rolls right after baking.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15 to 18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Step 9: Brush with Garlic Butter

Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. This step adds shine, flavor, and moisture to the crust.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the rolls to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best experience.

Adaptations for Special Diets

• For a whole wheat version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• To make these rolls dairy-free, swap the unsalted butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil for the dough and garlic butter brush.
• Use gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities; note that the texture may vary slightly.
• Omit sugar or replace with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to reduce refined sugar content.

Cook’s Notes

• Water Temperature: Make sure the water is warm but not hot (around 110°F). Too hot can kill the yeast, too cold will slow the rise.
• Herbs: Dried herbs are best here to avoid excess moisture in the dough, but fresh herbs can be used—just increase the quantity slightly.
• Kneading: Proper kneading develops gluten, giving the rolls structure and softness. If you don’t have a stand mixer, knead by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
• Butter Brush: Don’t skip the garlic butter brush—it’s what makes these rolls irresistibly flavorful and shiny.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare the dough a day ahead by completing the first rise, then refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, shape the rolls and proceed with the second rise and baking as directed.

• Storing Leftovers: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked rolls in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why didn’t my dough rise?

The most common reasons are old or inactive yeast, water that’s too hot or cold, or not giving the dough enough time to rise. Always check your yeast’s expiration date and water temperature carefully.

My rolls came out dense instead of fluffy. What went wrong?

This could be due to insufficient kneading or using too much flour, which makes the dough stiff. Make sure to knead until smooth and elastic, and measure flour accurately without packing it.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?

Yes! Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried because fresh herbs are less concentrated. Just chop them finely and incorporate into the dough.

How do I make the garlic butter brush more intense in flavor?

Allow the minced garlic to infuse in the melted butter for at least 10 minutes, or gently warm it on low heat to release more flavor. You can also add a pinch of salt or parsley for extra dimension.

Keep Cooking

• If you love soft, buttery bread, try baking Brioche Buns next for a rich, tender treat.
• For another garlic-flavored baked delight, these Garlic Parmesan Soft Breadsticks are a must-try and perfect alongside your Herby Parker House Rolls.

Hungry for More?

Whether you’re serving these rolls with a hearty stew or enjoying them as sandwich buns, their herbaceous aroma and garlic butter finish will impress every guest. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you want a little extra comfort on your plate.

With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, the Herby Parker House Rolls with Garlic Butter Brush bring warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Happy baking and even happier eating!

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