Think about the last time you pulled a tray of warm cinnamon rolls out of the oven. The buttery dough, the soft swirls, and the irresistible aroma probably made your kitchen feel like the coziest place in the world. Now, imagine that same soft, pillowy texture—but instead of sugar and cinnamon, the rolls are swirled with garlicky butter, melted cheese, and fresh herbs. That’s the magic of garlic bread cinnamon rolls.
This recipe takes the charm of a sweet breakfast favorite and flips it into a savory, cheesy, pull-apart bread that’s perfect for dinner, parties, or anytime you’re craving comfort food. It’s the kind of dish that surprises guests, delights kids, and adds a playful twist to your table without requiring complicated steps.
What Are Garlic Bread Cinnamon Rolls?
A Fusion of Two Classics
Garlic bread is already a favorite side dish, and cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat. But when you roll bread dough with garlic butter and cheese instead of sugar and cinnamon, you get something entirely new—a garlic bread cinnamon roll.
- The dough acts as the base, soft and fluffy, just like your favorite sweet roll.
- Garlic butter seeps into every swirl, creating a rich, savory flavor.
- Cheese and herbs add melty goodness and an irresistible aroma.
The result is a golden, buttery roll that’s easy to pull apart and perfect for dipping in soups, sauces, or just enjoying on its own.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
When you sink your teeth into one of these rolls, you’ll experience layers of flavor:
- Buttery garlic richness that melts into the dough.
- Melted cheese that stretches with every pull.
- Herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano for freshness and aroma.
- Crisp golden edges balanced with a soft, tender center.
It’s the kind of flavor combination that keeps you coming back for seconds.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Garlic bread cinnamon rolls aren’t just for dinner. You can enjoy them in so many ways:
- As a fun side with pasta or soup.
- Served on a holiday dinner table in place of traditional rolls.
- Packed in lunchboxes for a savory treat.
- Skewered on sticks as a unique party appetizer.
A Customizable Recipe
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adjust it.
- Cheese lovers can add extra mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Spice enthusiasts can toss in red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
- Experimenters can try different fillings, from sun-dried tomatoes to caramelized onions.
Ingredients for Garlic Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 10–12 rolls:
Dough
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Garlic Butter Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Serving
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- Extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish
How to Make Garlic Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
On a floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a large rectangle. Brush the surface with melted butter to keep it soft and flavorful.
Step 2: Add the Garlic Butter & Cheese
Mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Spread it evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 3: Roll and Slice
Roll the dough into a log, just like you would for traditional cinnamon rolls. Slice into 10–12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss to keep the swirls neat.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
Step 5: Serve with Dipping Sauce
Brush the hot rolls with a little more melted garlic butter. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan. Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch, or even a cheesy dip.
Tips & Variations for the Best Garlic Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Tips for Success
- Don’t oversoak the dough—a quick brush of butter is enough to keep it fluffy.
- Use slightly chilled dough to make rolling easier.
- Watch the oven closely—the butter and cheese can brown quickly.
Fun Variations to Try
- Cheesy Pizza Rolls: Add pepperoni or cooked sausage before rolling.
- Herb Lovers’ Rolls: Mix in basil, oregano, or rosemary with the garlic butter.
- Spicy Garlic Rolls: Add crushed red pepper or chili oil for heat.
- Extra Cheesy Version: Use a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone.
What to Serve with Garlic Bread Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls are versatile and can pair with so many dishes:
- Classic Italian dinners like spaghetti, lasagna, or French Dip Sliders.
- Soups & stews such as Curried Butternut Squash Soup for a cozy night in.
- Brunch spreads with eggs, salads, or even Sourdough French Toast for a sweet-savory balance.
- Holiday gatherings—serve alongside a roast or use as a creative twist on dinner rolls.
FAQs
1. Do garlic bread cinnamon rolls taste like dessert?
Not exactly. Instead of being sweet, they’re savory and cheesy—like garlic bread in a fun swirled form.
2. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes! Store-bought dough makes this recipe quick and easy, but homemade dough works beautifully, too.
3. Can I make garlic bread cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Definitely, you can assemble the rolls, cover the pan, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
4. What dips go well with garlic bread cinnamon rolls?
Marinara sauce is classic, but you can also try ranch, garlic aioli, or a cheesy queso dip.
5. Can I freeze garlic bread cinnamon rolls?
Yes, bake them fully, let cool, then wrap individually and freeze. Reheat in the oven for fresh-from-the-oven flavor.
Garlic bread cinnamon rolls are proof that the best recipes are the ones that surprise you. With buttery garlic layers, gooey cheese, and a swirl of soft bread, they’re a fun and delicious twist on a beloved classic.
The next time you’re planning a family dinner, holiday feast, or casual get-together, skip the plain bread basket and serve these rolls instead. They’re guaranteed to bring smiles, start conversations, and maybe even steal the spotlight.
Try baking a batch of garlic bread cinnamon rolls this week—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!
Garlic Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 lb pizza dough store-bought or homemade
- 2 tbsp olive oil for brushing
For the Garlic Butter Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- Extra Parmesan and parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or round pan.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Brush evenly with melted butter.
Make the Garlic Butter Filling
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Roll and Slice
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long side.
- Slice into 10–12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Bake the Rolls
- Place rolls cut side up in the prepared dish, leaving a little space between each.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
- Brush the baked rolls with extra melted butter.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan.
- Serve warm with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.
- No pizza dough? Use homemade dough or crescent roll dough as an alternative.
- Extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a spicy kick.
- Cheese swaps: Try cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
