If you’ve ever dreamed of creating soft, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth rolls that burst with that irresistible buttery and herby flavor, then welcome to your new favorite recipe. These Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls are quick to make and perfect for elevating any meal, from casual family dinners to special holiday gatherings. They combine comforting warmth, aromatic herbs, and a tender crumb that’s simply unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and Easy: You can whip these rolls up quickly without sacrificing flavor or texture, great for last-minute meals.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: The perfect blend of ingredients ensures each roll is irresistibly tender inside with a slight crisp outside.
- Herb-Infused Goodness: Fresh and dried herbs add a savory touch that’s gentle but memorable, pairing beautifully with butter.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these rolls fit right in and impress.
- Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters love the delicate buttery flavor and softness, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls lies in their simple, wholesome ingredients, each playing a key role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance. From the soft wheat flour to the fragrant herbs and melted butter, here’s what you’ll need:
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for soft, tender rolls with just the right structure.
- Warm Milk: Activates the yeast gently while adding richness to the dough.
- Active Dry Yeast: The magic ingredient that makes these rolls rise light and fluffy.
- Granulated Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to complement the herbs.
- Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the dough’s sweetness perfectly.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter is folded in for softness and brushed on top for that golden crust.
- Fresh Herbs (like parsley, thyme, rosemary): Infuse the dough with a fragrant, savory aroma that elevates each bite.
- Egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough for a tender crumb.
Variations for Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls
Feel free to make these rolls your own! This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to swap herbs or adjust flavors to meet dietary preferences or simply to try something new. A few simple tweaks can keep your rolls exciting every time you bake:
- Garlic Herb Twist: Add minced garlic or garlic powder for a delightful garlicky aroma.
- Cheese Infusion: Incorporate shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy, savory upgrade.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking and adjust liquid for a perfect texture.
- Vegan Option: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter to keep them dairy-free.
- Sweet Herb Blend: Mix in a pinch of dried basil and oregano with a hint of honey for a slightly sweet spin.
How to Make Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Your Yeast Mixture
Start by mixing the warm milk with granulated sugar and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly, signaling that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and finely chopped fresh herbs. Add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If you prefer, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to make this step easier and faster.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide it into equal-sized balls—about 12 rolls—and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced just slightly apart to allow rising.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the shaped rolls and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes until they are puffed and soft to the touch.
Step 7: Bake and Butter the Rolls
Bake your rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. As soon as they come out of the oven, brush them generously with melted butter infused with fresh herbs for that signature rich flavor.
Pro Tips for Making Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls
- Use Fresh Herbs: Freshly chopped herbs provide more vibrant flavor than dried, but dried works well in a pinch.
- Don’t Skip the Butter Brush: Brushing warm rolls with herb butter post-bake adds irresistible shine and taste.
- Check Your Milk Temperature: Milk that’s too hot can kill yeast, while too cold won’t activate it well; aim for about 110°F (43°C).
- Knead Properly: Proper kneading develops gluten, which helps rolls stay tender yet structured.
- Cover During Rising: Keep the dough moist and warm when rising to ensure the best puff and texture.
How to Serve Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls
Garnishes
Enhance your rolls by sprinkling fresh finely chopped herbs or a little sea salt on top right after brushing with melted butter — it adds freshness and a little crunch to each bite.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with creamy soups, stews, roasted meats, or even a crisp salad, making them a versatile side that complements countless meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange freshly baked rolls in a warm bread basket lined with a linen napkin or serve warm in small cast iron skillets brushed with herb butter to impress guests effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooled rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; they can be stored for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat rolls wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave covered with a damp paper towel for 20 seconds to regain fresh-baked warmth and softness.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, dried herbs can be used but reduce the quantity by half since they are more concentrated in flavor.
How do I know if my yeast is still good?
If your yeast activates properly and the milk mixture bubbles and foams after 5-10 minutes, it’s still good to use.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and consider adding xanthan gum for better texture.
Are these rolls suitable for vegan diets?
You can make them vegan by substituting dairy milk and butter with plant-based alternatives and using a flax or chia egg replacer.
What is the best way to store leftover rolls?
Keep them in airtight containers at room temperature for quick consumption or freeze for longer storage to preserve freshness.
Final Thoughts
These Buttery Herb Parker House Rolls are your new go-to recipe when you want that incredible homemade bread experience without hours in the kitchen. They come together quickly, smell amazing baking, and taste even better warm with butter melting on top. Give this recipe a try and watch how these soft, flavorful rolls become the highlight of your table every time.