Herbaceous Delight: Easy Italian Herb Rolls Recipe 🌿

Introduction

Italian Herb Rolls are a quintessential addition to any bread basket, bringing together the comforting softness of freshly baked bread with the aromatic allure of traditional Italian herbs. These rolls are perfect for pairing with soups, salads, pasta dishes, or simply enjoyed on their own as a snack. Their fluffy texture and savory herb-infused flavor make them a favorite in both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings. Inspired by a delightful family recipe shared on Love With Recipes, this version emphasizes simplicity, quick preparation, and wholesome ingredients, ensuring you achieve bakery-quality rolls with minimal effort. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced bread enthusiast, mastering these Italian Herb Rolls will add a versatile, flavorful staple to your culinary repertoire.

Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Needed Equipment

• bread machine (optional)
• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or dough hook (if kneading by hand or with stand mixer)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet or tray
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Pastry cutter or sharp knife (for shaping)
• Pastry brush (optional, for egg wash)
• Oven mitts
• Cooling rack

Tags

Yeast Breads, Italian Cuisine, Baked Goods, Easy Recipes, Family Favorite, Quick Bread, Herb-Infused, Vegetarian

Serving Size

Each batch yields approximately 12-15 rolls, depending on the size you prefer. Serving size is typically 1 roll per person, making this recipe perfect for sharing among family and friends.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. While the recipe involves some basic bread-making techniques, the process is straightforward, especially with a bread machine. It offers a good balance between beginner-friendly steps and the satisfaction of baking homemade bread.

Allergen Information

Note: This recipe contains gluten and garlic. For gluten-free options, substitute with gluten-free baking mixes and herbs suitable for your diet.

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian. This recipe contains no animal products, making it suitable for vegetarians. For vegan adaptations, replace sugar with a plant-based sweetener or omit it entirely, and ensure any egg wash (if used) is substituted with plant-based alternatives.

Course

Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish

Cuisine

Italian

Ingredients

Ingredient List in Detail

Note: You may need additional flour for dusting and shaping the dough into rolls.

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Begin by setting up your bread machine if you are using one. Select the dough setting, which typically involves mixing and a single rise cycle. Pour the warm water into the bread machine pan, ensuring it’s at the optimal temperature (around 110°F). Add the salt, sugar, and herbs directly into the water to allow them to dissolve and infuse the liquid with flavor. Next, add the bread flour gradually, ensuring it covers the liquid to prevent premature gluten development. Close the lid and start the dough cycle. If you prefer to knead by hand or with a stand mixer, combine the water, salt, sugar, herbs, and garlic powder in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft ball forms. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 2: Shaping the Rolls

Once the dough has completed its initial mixing and rising cycle in the bread machine, remove it from the pan onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into equal portions, each weighing approximately 2-3 ounces depending on desired roll size. To shape, gently roll each portion into a ball or oval shape, ensuring the surface is smooth. Place the shaped rolls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart to allow for expansion. Do not perform a second rise; these rolls will bake directly after shaping, which simplifies the process and saves time. If you prefer a slightly crustier exterior, brush the tops lightly with an egg wash or olive oil at this stage.

Step 3: Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) at least 15 minutes before baking to ensure even heat distribution. Place the baking sheet on the middle rack. Bake the rolls for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until they turn a rich golden brown and emit an inviting aroma of herbs and baked bread. During the initial 10 minutes of baking, you can tent the rolls loosely with aluminum foil if they are browning too quickly. Remove from the oven once baked, and transfer the rolls to a cooling rack. Let them cool slightly before serving to allow the crumb to set and to avoid burns from hot steam.

Preparation Tips

• Ensure your water is at the correct temperature to activate the yeast without killing it. Too hot can inhibit rising, while too cold slows fermentation.
• If you don’t have a bread machine, you can prepare the dough entirely by hand or with a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
• Use fresh herbs whenever possible to maximize flavor; dried herbs are convenient and have a longer shelf life but can be more concentrated.
• To add an extra flavor dimension, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs on top before baking.
• For an extra shiny crust, brush the rolls with an egg wash (1 beaten egg + 1 tbsp water) before baking.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For a more pronounced herb flavor, incorporate freshly chopped parsley and basil into the dough after the initial kneading stage.
• If dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour until manageable; if too dry, add small amounts of water.
• To achieve a softer crust, cover the baked rolls with a clean kitchen towel immediately after removing from the oven.
• For added texture, sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse sea salt on top before baking.
• Resting the shaped rolls for 5-10 minutes before baking can improve oven spring and overall appearance.

Add-ons

• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese mixed into the dough for a cheesy herb roll.
• Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• Use garlic butter or herb-infused olive oil as a dipping sauce.
• Top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and flaky sea salt after baking for presentation and extra flavor.

Side Dishes

• Classic minestrone soup
• Fresh Caesar salad
• Spaghetti aglio e olio
• Eggplant Parmesan
• Antipasto platter with cured meats and cheeses

Improvements

• Add a splash of white wine to the dough for extra depth of flavor.
• Use bread flour with higher protein content for a chewier texture.
• Include a second proofing to develop a lighter crumb, if time permits.
• Experiment with different herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary for varied flavor profiles.

Save and Store

To keep the rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooled rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Reheating in a microwave is not recommended as it can make the rolls soggy.

FAQ

Can I make these rolls without a bread machine?

Absolutely. The dough can be prepared entirely by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Follow the same mixing and kneading instructions, and allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried?

Yes. Use approximately three times the amount of fresh herbs to replace dried. For example, 1 tablespoon of dried parsley equals about 3 tablespoons of fresh parsley.

Is it possible to make these vegan?

Yes. Replace sugar with a plant-based sweetener or omit it. Skip the egg wash or substitute with plant-based milk or a mixture of water and a teaspoon of maple syrup for shine. Ensure the dough ingredients are vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

These Italian Herb Rolls exemplify the art of combining simple ingredients with flavorful herbs to create a comforting, versatile bread. Their fluffy crumb, fragrant aroma, and savory taste make them a crowd-pleaser and a staple for any occasion. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, they are an excellent addition to your bread-making repertoire. The ease of preparation, especially with the aid of a bread machine, ensures that even novice bakers can enjoy creating bakery-quality results at home. Experiment with different herbs and toppings to tailor these rolls to your personal palate. Remember, fresh herbs and quality ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. As you master this recipe, you’ll find endless ways to incorporate these herb rolls into your meals, elevating everyday dishes into memorable dining experiences. Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious Italian Herb Rolls! This recipe is proudly brought to you by Love With Recipes—your trusted source for delightful and accessible culinary inspirations.

References

• American Test Kitchen. (2020). “The Science of Bread Baking.” https://www.americastestkitchen.com
• Williams Sonoma. (2018). “The Art of Italian Herbs.” https://www.williams-sonoma.com