How to Make Garlic Bread with Crescent Rolls: An Easy & Delicious Guide
Making garlic bread with crescent rolls is incredibly simple! It involves spreading a flavorful garlic butter mixture onto pre-made crescent roll dough, baking until golden brown, and serving a quick and satisfying side dish.
Why Crescent Roll Garlic Bread?
Crescent roll garlic bread offers a fantastic alternative to traditional garlic bread, providing a speedy and convenient option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Forget kneading dough or slicing loaves – these rolls are ready to go, offering a light and flaky texture that perfectly complements the rich garlic butter.
Benefits of Using Crescent Rolls
Using crescent rolls for garlic bread offers several advantages:
- Speed: Crescent rolls significantly reduce preparation time.
- Convenience: No need for yeast or proofing.
- Texture: They provide a light and airy texture, distinct from denser breads.
- Kid-Friendly: The smaller, individual portions are perfect for children.
- Versatility: Easily adaptable with different herbs and cheeses.
The Essential Ingredients
The key to amazing crescent roll garlic bread lies in quality ingredients:
- Crescent Roll Dough: One can (usually 8 rolls) of refrigerated crescent roll dough. Choose your preferred brand.
- Butter: Unsalted butter provides the best control over saltiness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers the most intense flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds color and a subtle herbaceous note. Dried parsley works too.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Optional: Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes.
The Simple Process: Step-by-Step
Here’s how to create delicious garlic bread using crescent rolls:
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: Melt the butter in a small saucepan or in the microwave. Add the minced garlic, parsley, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Unroll the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles.
- Spread the Garlic Butter: Generously brush each crescent roll triangle with the garlic butter mixture.
- Roll Up the Crescents: Roll up each triangle starting from the wider end.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the rolled crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake according to the crescent roll package instructions, or until golden brown and cooked through. Usually around 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in dry crescent rolls. Keep a close eye on them in the oven.
- Fresh Garlic is Best: Freshly minced garlic offers a more robust flavor than garlic powder.
- Use Parchment Paper: Parchment paper prevents the rolls from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Adjust Garlic to Your Taste: Start with a smaller amount of garlic and add more as desired.
- Let Butter Infuse: Gently simmering the garlic in the butter for a few minutes enhances the garlic flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Too Much Garlic: Overpowering garlic can be unpleasant. Start with less and adjust to taste.
- Burning the Garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic butter mixture while melting to avoid burning the garlic. Burned garlic tastes bitter.
- Not Rolling Tightly: Rolling the crescents tightly helps them maintain their shape during baking.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Overcrowding can prevent even browning. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
Variations and Additions
Get creative with your crescent roll garlic bread! Here are some variations to try:
- Cheese: Sprinkle shredded parmesan, mozzarella, or Italian cheese blend on top before baking.
- Italian Seasoning: Add a pinch of Italian seasoning to the garlic butter mixture for extra flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat.
- Herb Butter: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Stuffed Garlic Bread: Spread pesto or sun-dried tomato paste onto the crescent roll dough before adding the garlic butter.
- Sweet Garlic Bread: Replace the garlic with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Note: These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 roll) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-200 |
| Fat | 8-12g |
| Saturated Fat | 5-8g |
| Cholesterol | 20-30mg |
| Sodium | 200-300mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20g |
| Protein | 2-3g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use store-bought garlic butter instead of making my own?
Yes, you can! Using store-bought garlic butter is a perfectly acceptable shortcut. Just ensure it’s a brand you like and that it has a good garlic flavor. However, making your own allows you to customize the flavor to your preferences.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to bake the crescent rolls just before serving for optimal freshness and texture.
Can I freeze crescent roll garlic bread?
While technically possible, freezing can affect the texture of the crescent rolls, making them slightly less flaky. If you must freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Reheat in the oven.
What temperature should I bake them at?
Generally, follow the package instructions for the crescent roll dough. Most often, this is 375°F (190°C). Adjust baking time as needed based on your oven.
How do I know when they are done?
The garlic bread is done when the crescent rolls are golden brown and cooked through. The inside should no longer be doughy.
Can I use biscuit dough instead of crescent rolls?
Yes, you can use biscuit dough, but the texture will be different. Biscuit dough will result in a denser, more bread-like garlic bread.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley is a perfectly acceptable substitute. Use about one teaspoon of dried parsley for every tablespoon of fresh parsley.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, butter provides a richer and more flavorful result. If using margarine, opt for a high-quality brand.
How long will leftover garlic bread last?
Leftover garlic bread is best enjoyed within 1-2 days. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I add cheese to the garlic butter mixture?
Adding cheese to the garlic butter mixture isn’t ideal as it might melt unevenly. It’s best to sprinkle cheese on top of the crescent rolls before baking.
What can I serve with crescent roll garlic bread?
Crescent roll garlic bread is a versatile side dish that pairs well with pasta dishes, soups, salads, and grilled meats. It’s also a great addition to a pizza night or a simple family dinner.
Can I use different types of garlic, like roasted garlic?
Absolutely! Roasted garlic would add a wonderful, mellow sweetness to your garlic bread. Be sure to use it in a similar quantity to the minced garlic in the recipe, adjusting to your preference.