Vegan Garlic Butter Rolls

Love a soft pull-apart roll? Same. They go great with just about any meal and can also be eaten in large quantities all on their own. These Vegan Garlic Butter Rolls are particularly delicious. Each of these pillowy clouds of heaven is brushed with a "cheesy," salty, garlic-butter sauce and fresh parsley. The last time I made these I ate four immediately after they came out of the oven. If your self-control is also in the garbage you will do the same. This is your warning.

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Ingredients in Vegan Garlic Butter Rolls

For the Rolls

• All-Purpose Flour (5 cups): Flour serves as the base ingredient, providing structure and volume to the rolls. All-purpose flour is a common choice for bread-making due to its moderate protein content, which helps create a desirable texture in the finished product.
• Sugar (¼ cup): Sugar isn't just for sweetness; it also aids in activating the yeast. Yeast feeds on sugar, helping it to ferment and produce carbon dioxide, which causes the dough to rise. Additionally, a small amount of sugar can enhance the flavor of the rolls.
• Instant Yeast (4 ½ teaspoon - 2 packets): Yeast is the leavening agent that causes the dough to rise. Instant yeast is fast-acting and doesn't require proofing, making the rising process quicker. The precise measurement ensures the right amount of leavening for the dough.
• Salt (1 ½ tsp): Salt is crucial for flavor enhancement. It controls yeast activity and strengthens the gluten structure, which affects the texture of the rolls. It also helps to balance the sweetness in the dough.
• Non-dairy Milk (1 ½ cups, heated to 115-130 degrees F): The warmed milk provides moisture and helps activate the yeast. The temperature range is important as it's within the ideal range for activating the yeast without killing it.
• Melted Vegan Butter (¼ cup): Vegan butter enriches the dough, providing a rich, buttery flavor. It also contributes to the tenderness of the rolls and helps in creating a soft, moist texture.
• Minced Garlic (4 cloves): Garlic adds a robust, savory flavor to the rolls, giving them a distinct garlic taste. It infuses the rolls with a delicious aroma and taste.
• Chopped Parsley (⅓ cup): Parsley complements the garlic flavor, adding freshness and a subtle herbal note to the rolls. It enhances the overall taste and provides visual appeal to the finished product.

Topping Ingredients

• Melted Vegan Butter (¼ cup): Vegan butter is the base of the topping and serves to replicate the rich, buttery flavor found in traditional garlic butter rolls. It adds moisture and richness to the topping, ensuring the rolls have a delicious, buttery finish.
• Nutritional Yeast (1 tablespoon): Nutritional yeast provides a savory, umami flavor to the topping. It's often used in vegan cooking to mimic the taste of cheese. It adds depth and a slightly cheesy, nutty flavor to the buttery topping.
• Minced Garlic (4 cloves): Just like in the dough, minced garlic in the topping contributes a bold, aromatic garlic flavor. When combined with the melted butter, it infuses the rolls with a robust garlic taste, ensuring they have a strong garlic profile.
• Sea Salt (1 teaspoon): Salt enhances the overall flavor profile of the rolls. In the topping, it helps balance the richness of the butter and the savory notes from the nutritional yeast and garlic. It also contributes to the seasoning of the rolls.
• Chopped Parsley (2 teaspoons): Chopped parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous element to the topping. It not only complements the garlic flavor but also provides a visual contrast and a pop of green color, making the rolls more visually appealing.

Steps for Making Vegan Garlic Butter Rolls (with pictures)

1. Combine Ingredients: Add flour, sugar, instant yeast and salt to a large bowl. Whisk together. Form a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm nondairy milk and the melted vegan butter. Stir together with a wooden spoon for about 2 minutes.
2. Prepare the Dough: Add minced garlic and chopped parsley to the bowl and knead gently until these ingredients are incorporated. Turn out the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes. Place the dough back into the bowl and rub the top lightly with more oil.
3. Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm area where it will not be disturbed. Allow the dough to rise for two hours. It should double in size.
4. Form Rolls: Punch down the dough and fold it over on itself. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times. Divide the dough into 20 equal pieces. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch pan with oil and place your dough balls inside. Cover the baking pan with the clean towel and leave it to rise for another hour.
5. Prepare Topping: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (205 C). Once dough is done rising, begin making your topping. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, nutritional yeast, minced garlic and sea salt. Brush the tops of the rolls with half of the mixture. Sprinkle rolls with parsley.
6. Bake: Place baking pan on center rack of preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until rolls are golden brown and make a hollow sort of sound when you tap on the top. Brush rolls with remainder of the butter mixture. Allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making Vegan Garlic Butter Rolls

1. Yeast Activation: Ensure your non-dairy milk is at the right temperature (115-130 degrees F) when adding it to the dry ingredients. This activates the yeast, allowing the dough to rise properly. Too hot or too cold milk can affect the yeast's activity.
2. Kneading: Proper kneading is crucial. Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten structure, which gives the rolls their desired texture. Be careful not to over-knead, as it can make the rolls tough.
3. Rising Time: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place. Cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Follow the rising time specified in the recipe; this is crucial for the rolls to achieve the right texture.
4. Garlic and Herb Distribution: When adding the minced garlic and chopped parsley to the dough, ensure they're evenly distributed to balance the flavor.
5. Topping Application: Apply the garlic butter topping generously but evenly on the rolls before and after baking. This step is essential for infusing the rolls with the garlic and herb flavors. You can use a pastry brush to evenly spread the topping.
6. Oven Temperature and Baking Time: Preheat the oven properly and bake the rolls at the recommended temperature and time. This ensures they cook through but don't become overly browned or dry. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning.
7. Resting After Baking: Allow the rolls to rest for a few minutes after coming out of the oven. This time allows the flavors to meld and settle and also makes the rolls easier to handle.
8. Serve Warm: Vegan garlic butter rolls are best enjoyed warm. Serve them fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions for Vegan Garlic Butter Rolls

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for these vegan garlic butter rolls?

Yes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. However, note that whole wheat flour may yield a denser texture. It's recommended to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for better results, as whole wheat flour tends to absorb more moisture.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast, and how should I adjust the recipe?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast. To substitute, you'd need to activate the active dry yeast in warm milk or water with a bit of sugar before adding it to the dry ingredients. Use 25% more active dry yeast than the amount of instant yeast called for in the recipe.

How long should I knead the dough, and how can I tell when it's done?

Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can perform the windowpane test: stretch a small piece of dough between your fingers; if it stretches thin enough to let light pass through without tearing, it's adequately kneaded.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it after the first rise. When ready to bake, remove the dough from the fridge, allow it to come to room temperature and rise again, then proceed with shaping and baking as directed in the recipe.

FAQ's Continued

Can I omit the nutritional yeast in the buttery topping?

Yes, you can omit the nutritional yeast if you prefer. It adds a slightly cheesy flavor but is not essential for the success of the recipe. The rolls will still be flavorful with the garlic, butter, and other seasonings.

My dough isn't rising. What might have gone wrong?

Several factors could affect the rising of the dough. Check the expiration date of your yeast, ensure the milk is at the right temperature, and allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place. Also, avoid adding too much flour, which can make the dough too dense.

Can I use olive oil or another oil instead of vegan butter?

Yes, you can use a different oil, but it might alter the flavor and texture of the rolls. Olive oil will impart its characteristic flavor, while other oils might not give that buttery taste. Experimentation is encouraged to find the flavor you prefer.

Are these vegan garlic butter rolls suitable for individuals with nut allergies?

Yes, this recipe doesn’t contain nuts. However, always check the ingredients in the products you use, as some pre-made vegan butters or milk substitutes might contain traces of nuts due to manufacturing processes.

How to Serve Vegan Garlic Butter Rolls

Vegan garlic butter rolls are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal or as a standalone treat. Here are various ways to serve them:

Side Dish:

1. With Soups or Stews: Serve alongside soups or stews. The rolls are perfect for dipping or sopping up the delicious flavors of the soup.
2. With Salads: They can complement salads, offering a comforting and flavorful addition to a lighter meal.

Appetizer or Snack:

1. Party Appetizer: Serve as an appetizer at gatherings or parties. Cut them into smaller portions for bite-sized treats, perfect for snacking.

Accompaniment to Main Courses:

1. With Pasta or Italian Dishes: They pair exceptionally well with pasta dishes, such as spaghetti or lasagna, adding a garlicky twist to the meal.
2. With Vegan Roasts or Grilled Veggies: Serve alongside main courses like roasted vegetables or a vegan roast for a delightful side.

Dipping:

1. With Dips: Offer them with various vegan dips such as hummus, baba ganoush, or spinach artichoke dip for a flavorful twist.
2. Served with Sauces: Pair them with sauces like marinara, pesto, or vegan cheese sauce for an extra flavor boost.

How to Store Vegan Garlic Butter Rolls

Storing vegan garlic butter rolls properly can help maintain their freshness and taste. Here's how to store them:

Short-Term Storage (1-3 Days):

1. Room Temperature: Allow the rolls to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container or a resealable bag at room temperature. Ensure they are completely cooled to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.
2. Bread Box or Bread Bag: If available, a bread box or a specifically designed bread bag can help regulate airflow and keep the rolls fresh for a few days.

Long-Term Storage (Freezing):

3. Freezing: To store for an extended period, freezing is the best option.
   • Once the rolls have cooled completely, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
   • For individual servings, you can also wrap each roll in plastic wrap and then place them in a larger freezer bag.
   • Ensure they're well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
4. Labeling and Date: If you're freezing them, label the container or bag with the date to keep track of freshness.

Tips for Storage:

• Avoid Moisture: To prevent sogginess, ensure the rolls are fully cooled before storing them. Any warmth or moisture can lead to a decrease in their quality.
• Single Servings: If you plan to consume the rolls in portions, consider freezing them individually to avoid thawing and refreezing the entire batch.

If you make this recipe, please tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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