There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, and when it’s a batch of soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls with garlic butter, that magic becomes irresistible. Imagine pulling warm, golden rolls out of the oven, their slightly sweet aroma mingling with the savory garlic butter melting over the top. It’s the perfect combination of flavors—sweet, savory, and oh-so-soft. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just craving something comforting, these homemade rolls are the ultimate treat. And the best part? They’re easier to make than you think! Let’s dive into this simple yet incredible recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home.
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What Makes Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread Special?
Hawaiian rolls are famous for their light, airy texture and subtly sweet flavor, making them the perfect base for garlic bread. The sweetness of the rolls balances out the rich buttery garlic flavor, creating a unique twist on the classic garlic bread recipe.
Key Features of Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread:
- Soft and Fluffy: Hawaiian rolls are known for their soft texture, which makes them perfect for a pull-apart bread experience.
- Sweet and Savory Balance: The slight sweetness of the rolls pairs perfectly with the savory garlic butter.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread
To make this easy and delicious dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together for maximum flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (King’s Hawaiian or similar)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
- A pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter)

Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the rolls.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter and whisk in the finely chopped garlic and parsley. Stir until everything is well-combined.
- Prepare the Rolls: Place the Hawaiian rolls on a rimmed baking sheet. Use a serrated knife to cut a deep “X” on top of each roll. This will allow the garlic butter to soak in better.
- Drizzle Garlic Butter: Pour the garlic butter over each roll, ensuring it fills the cuts and drips down the sides.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and the garlic butter has fully soaked in.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately while the rolls are warm and fresh out of the oven!
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic offers the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh garlic will give the best taste.
- Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: For a cheesy version, add freshly grated parmesan cheese or mozzarella on top before baking.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try using rosemary, thyme, or chives in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Freezing and Storing Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread
You can easily make these rolls ahead of time and store them for later use. Here’s how to store and freeze your garlic bread:
How to Freeze:
- Let the rolls cool completely after baking.
- Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat:
- Thaw: Allow the rolls to thaw overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter for a few hours.
- Reheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until they are warm.
Variations to Try with Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread
Hawaiian roll garlic bread is highly customizable. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Cheesy Garlic Bread
Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese or mozzarella over the garlic butter before baking for a gooey, cheesy twist on the classic recipe.
2. Spicy Garlic Bread
Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
3. Herb-Infused Garlic Bread
Use fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a more aromatic and earthy flavor.
4. Stuffed Garlic Bread
For a heartier dish, stuff the slits in the rolls with shredded chicken, ham, or cheese before pouring the garlic butter over them.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread
Hawaiian roll garlic bread pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside this delicious bread:
- Soup: Perfect with tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, or a creamy potato soup.
- Pasta: A great side to spaghetti, lasagna, or alfredo pasta.
- Grilled Meats: Serve with grilled chicken thighs or steak for a hearty meal.
- Salads: Pair with a fresh Caesar salad or Greek salad.
Conclusion
Hawaiian roll garlic bread is the ultimate comfort food. With its soft texture, buttery garlic flavor, and versatile variations, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, chicken, or soup, these rolls are sure to impress. Don’t forget, they can also be frozen for later use, making them a great make-ahead option.
If you’re looking for more delicious bread recipes to try, check out our No Yeast Dinner Roll Recipe for another quick and easy baking option that pairs wonderfully with any meal.

Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls King’s Hawaiian or similar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 4 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped (optional)
- A pinch of salt if using unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter and whisk in the finely chopped garlic and parsley. Stir until well combined.
- Prepare the Rolls: Place the Hawaiian rolls on a baking sheet. Use a serrated knife to cut a deep “X” in the top of each roll. This will allow the garlic butter to soak in.
- Pour the Garlic Butter: Drizzle the prepared garlic butter generously over each roll, ensuring the butter fills the cuts and drips down the sides.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes, or until golden brown and the garlic butter has soaked into the rolls.
- Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly, then serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Calories: 137 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 23mg
- Sodium: 130mg
- Potassium: 10mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 230IU
- Vitamin C: 1.6mg
- Calcium: 5mg
- Iron: 0.1mg
FAQs About Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you perfect your Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread recipe. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, we’ve got answers that will make your garlic bread even more delicious and easy to prepare.
1. Can I use a different type of roll for garlic bread?
Yes, absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls are a favorite for their sweet flavor and soft texture, you can definitely use other types of rolls. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, you could try dinner rolls, brioche, or even ciabatta for a more rustic, crusty version. Just keep in mind that the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls is what makes this recipe special, so any substitution might slightly change the taste.
2. How can I store leftover Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread?
Leftovers? Lucky you! Storing your garlic bread properly will ensure it stays fresh and delicious. Here’s how:
Room Temperature: If you’re planning to eat it within 2-3 days, wrap the garlic bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight freezer bag. Freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw and reheat in the oven.
3. Can I make garlic butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This can save you time when you’re prepping for a meal. Just reheat the garlic butter in the microwave or on the stove before drizzling it over the rolls.
4. How do I make this recipe vegan?
No problem! To make a vegan version of Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread:
Butter: Use vegan butter or olive oil as a substitute for regular butter.
Cheese: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative like vegan parmesan or mozzarella.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is always a good choice for flavor, and you don’t need to make any changes here.
5. How can I make garlic bread extra cheesy?
If you love a cheesy garlic bread, you’re in for a treat! Here’s how to amp up the cheese factor:
After pouring the garlic butter over the rolls, sprinkle generously with freshly grated parmesan, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses.
Bake as usual, and you’ll have a beautifully melted, gooey, cheesy garlic bread that’s irresistible.
6. Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to prepare garlic bread in advance. Here’s the best way to freeze:
Before Baking: After preparing the rolls with garlic butter, wrap them tightly and place them in the freezer. When ready to bake, pop them straight into the oven from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
After Baking: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then wrap and freeze them. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to bring them back to life.
7. How do I know when the garlic bread is done baking?
It’s all about the golden color! The rolls should be golden brown on the top, with the garlic butter visibly soaking in. If you like your garlic bread a bit crispier, you can bake it for a few extra minutes to get that perfect crunch on the edges. Don’t forget to check the bottom of the rolls as well to make sure they’re warmed through.
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