Garlic Rolls (Ukrainian Pampushki)

Soft, fluffy dough with a golden, salty garlic crust and fragrant fresh herbs—just thinking about them makes my mouth water. A beloved staple in Ukrainian cuisine, pampushki are traditionally served alongside borscht, but they’re so flavorful and satisfying that you’ll want to enjoy them with just about any meal.

The combination of pillowy bread and a bold garlic-herb dressing makes them truly unforgettable. I highly recommend making them right away, especially since they’re so easy to prepare!

With a handful of pantry staples and a little rising time, you’ll have a batch of warm, aromatic rolls ready to impress. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, you’ll love how delicious they turn out. Pampushki are the kind of comfort food that brings people together—and once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re such a treasured dish.

For the dough:

• 450 g all-purpose flour
• 100 ml warm milk
• 200 ml warm water
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 6 g dry yeast
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 egg yolk

For the garlic dressing:

• 2 tbsp sunflower oil (or any vegetable oil; unrefined sunflower oil is traditional)
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp water
• 2-3 cloves garlic minced
• a small bunch dill or parsley chopped

Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until a frothy layer forms on top.

Make the Dough:

• In a deep bowl, sift the flour with a pinch of salt, add the warm milk, activated yeast, and vegetable oil, and knead the dough.
• Place the dough in the bowl, and brush the surface with vegetable oil.
• Cover with a towel and leave in a warm place for 30-60 minutes until it rises.

Shape the Rolls & Bake

• Divide the dough into 12-14 balls. Grease the baking dish with vegetable oil and place the dough balls in it. Cover and leave for 15-20 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 190ºC (380°F). Whisk the egg yolk with 2 tbsp of water to make an egg wash. Brush the rolls with the egg wash.
• Bake the buns for 30-35 minutes in the preheated oven at 190ºC (380°F).

Make the Garlic Dressing:

• While the rolls are baking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, mix the oil, salt, water, and minced garlic. Stir in the chopped dill or parsley and mix well.