Garlic Parmesan Swirl Rolls

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the filling:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk mixture, give it a quick stir, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed, but keep the dough slightly tacky.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley (if using), salt, and pepper.
8. Spread the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
9. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
10. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into even-sized rolls, about 1-1.5 inches thick.
11. Place the rolls in a greased baking pan or a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll.
12. Cover the rolls loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
13. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
14. Once risen, bake the garlic Parmesan swirl rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
15. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

These garlic Parmesan swirl rolls are flavorful and make a fantastic addition to any meal or a delightful snack on their own. Enjoy the savory taste of garlic, butter, and Parmesan in every bite!