Garlic Roll Cupcakes Recipe: The Perfect Buttery, Cheesy Bite-Sized Bread Treat
If you love the comforting aroma of warm garlic bread, these Garlic Roll Cupcakes will steal your heart. Soft, buttery, and filled with the irresistible flavor of garlic and parmesan, they’re everything you love about traditional garlic rolls—just baked into cute, individual cupcake-style portions. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, family dinners, or as a side for pasta, soups, and salads. The best part? They come together in just a few simple steps using refrigerated breadstick dough.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Roll Cupcakes
Garlic Roll Cupcakes are not just delicious—they’re a total crowd-pleaser. Each roll bakes up golden and fluffy with a crisp, cheesy top. You get that restaurant-style garlic bread experience right from your own oven. Whether served warm out of the pan or at room temperature, they’re always a hit. These rolls are also highly customizable—you can add herbs, different cheeses, or even stuff them with fillings for a creative twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these irresistible Garlic Roll Cupcakes, you only need a handful of ingredients:
- 1 can (12 count) refrigerated breadsticks
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic bread seasoning (such as Johnny’s or any favorite blend)
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
- Shredded parmesan cheese (for topping)
How to Make Garlic Roll Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your rolls won’t stick and will pop out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter Spread
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic bread seasoning, and 1 tablespoon of grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly blended. This savory butter mixture is what gives the rolls their rich garlic flavor and beautiful golden color.
Step 3: Prepare the Breadsticks
Unroll the refrigerated breadstick dough and separate it into individual breadsticks. Lay them flat on a clean surface or cutting board so you can easily spread the butter mixture.
Step 4: Add the Garlic Butter
Using a pastry brush or a small spatula, spread a generous layer of the garlic butter mixture over each breadstick. Make sure you coat the entire surface—this ensures every bite is full of flavor.
Step 5: Roll and Arrange
Once each breadstick is buttered, roll it up tightly from one end to the other, forming a spiral. Place each rolled breadstick into one of the muffin cups, seam side down. This will help them hold their shape as they bake.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the tops with shredded parmesan cheese (or extra grated parmesan if you prefer a finer texture). The cheese will melt beautifully and form a crispy, flavorful crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overbrowning.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Let the Garlic Roll Cupcakes cool slightly before removing them from the pan. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture—they’re buttery, garlicky, and absolutely delicious.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
Garlic Roll Cupcakes are versatile and pair beautifully with many dishes. Here are some serving ideas:
- With Pasta: Serve them alongside spaghetti, fettuccine Alfredo, or lasagna for the ultimate comfort meal.
- With Soups: Dip them in tomato soup, creamy broccoli cheddar, or chicken noodle soup.
- With Salads: A Caesar salad or garden salad pairs perfectly with the rich garlic and cheese flavor.
- As an Appetizer: Serve them at parties or gatherings with a side of marinara or ranch dipping sauce.
- With Grilled Meats: They complement grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp beautifully.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Roll Cupcakes
- Use quality butter: The better the butter, the richer the flavor.
- Add fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley, basil, or rosemary adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Customize the cheese: Try mozzarella, asiago, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- Don’t overbake: Remove them as soon as they’re golden to keep the inside soft and fluffy.
- Make ahead: You can prepare them a few hours early, refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
Flavor Variations to Try
1. Cheesy Garlic Roll Cupcakes
Add shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese inside each roll before baking. When you bite into them, you’ll get a delicious gooey cheese center.
2. Spicy Garlic Rolls
Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne into the butter for a little heat. Perfect for spice lovers!
3. Herb and Olive Oil Rolls
Replace the butter with olive oil and add a mix of Italian herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil for a lighter, Mediterranean-style roll.
4. Bacon Parmesan Rolls
Sprinkle cooked bacon crumbles over the buttered dough before rolling for a smoky, savory twist that’s irresistible.
5. Cheddar and Chive Rolls
Add shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives to the butter mixture for a more robust and tangy flavor combination.
How to Store Garlic Roll Cupcakes
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), here’s how to store them properly:
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for 5 minutes at 350°F to bring back their freshness.
- In the Freezer: Freeze baked rolls in a ziplock bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until warm.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible—it can make them soggy. Instead, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes until warm and slightly crisp again. An air fryer also works wonderfully for restoring that just-baked texture.
Why Garlic Roll Cupcakes Are Perfect for Any Occasion
These rolls are incredibly easy to make yet look elegant and impressive on any table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a casual family meal, or need a quick side dish for a weeknight dinner, Garlic Roll Cupcakes fit every occasion. They’re also kid-friendly—children love the soft texture and cheesy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without garlic bread seasoning?
Yes! Mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt to make your own garlic bread seasoning at home.
Can I use biscuit dough instead of breadstick dough?
Absolutely. Biscuit dough will give a slightly fluffier and more buttery texture—still delicious!
Can I make them vegan?
Yes, simply use vegan butter and a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. Just use two cans of dough and prepare two muffin pans. Perfect for large gatherings or meal prepping.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per roll)
Calories: 130 | Fat: 8g | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 3g | Sodium: 210mg
Note: Values vary depending on brand of ingredients used.
Conclusion: A Simple Yet Irresistible Treat
Garlic Roll Cupcakes combine the buttery goodness of garlic bread with the convenience of a grab-and-go cupcake shape. Whether you serve them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, they’ll bring warmth, aroma, and flavor to your table. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep, these little rolls will become a go-to favorite in your home. Try them today and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth perfection of cheesy, garlicky bliss.
