Savory Garlic-Parsley Butter Rolls

1. Prepare the Dough Mixture

In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the whole milk, melted butter, and one egg until well combined. This mixture should be smooth and free of any dry patches of flour.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour and yeast to the mixer bowl. Using the dough hook attachment, mix on medium speed for about two minutes until the ingredients are just combined.

3. Rest the Dough

Cover the bowl with a dish towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 15 minutes. This resting period helps the dough hydrate and begin to develop gluten.

4. Knead the Dough

After the rest, add the sugar and one teaspoon of salt to the dough. Knead the dough on medium speed for 30 seconds, then increase the speed to medium-high and continue kneading for 8 to 12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl and becomes smooth and elastic.

5. First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly greased large bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about one hour. The dough should double in size, becoming light and airy.

6. Shape the Rolls

Turn the risen dough out onto a lightly floured counter. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a smooth, tight ball. This will ensure the rolls bake evenly and maintain a uniform shape.

7. Second Rise

Place the dough balls into a greased 13x9-inch baking dish, spacing them evenly. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise will give the rolls their final, fluffy texture.

8. Prepare for Baking

Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

9. Apply Egg Wash

Beat the remaining egg with a pinch of salt and brush it over the tops of the risen rolls. This egg wash will give the rolls a beautiful golden and shiny crust.

10. Bake the Rolls

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for about 20 minutes, until they are deep golden brown and the center of the rolls reaches an internal temperature of 200-205 degrees Fahrenheit.

11. Prepare Garlic-Herb Butter

While the rolls are baking, melt the remaining four tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of salt, cooking for about one minute until the garlic is fragrant. This infuses the butter with a rich garlic flavor.

12. Finish the Rolls

Once the rolls are out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic-infused butter and sprinkle with the minced fresh parsley. Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for 15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the rolls to settle.