The Irresistible Story Behind This Cheesy Garlic Bread
Imagine a bread so soft, so gloriously cheesy, and so packed with garlic flavor that it becomes the star of every meal. This isn’t just another garlic bread recipe – it’s a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Bread Dough:
- Milk: 225 ml (1 cups, 8 oz)
- Sugar: 30 g (2 tbsp, 1 oz)
- Instant Dry Yeast: 1.5 tsp (4.5 g)
- Bread Flour: 300 g (2.3 cups, 10.5 oz)
- Salt: 1 tsp (5 g)
- Unsalted Butter: 20 g (0.7 oz)
For the Garlic Sauce:
- Garlic Paste: 2 tbsp
- Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped
- Unsalted Butter: 50 g (0.2 cups, 1.7 oz)
- Chili Flakes: 1 tsp
- Salt: To taste
For the Cheese Filling:
- Mozzarella Cheese: 150 g
- Cheddar Cheese: 100 g
- Total Cheese: 250 g
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Yeast Mixture
- Warm milk to room temperature
- Add sugar and instant dry yeast
- Mix thoroughly and let sit for 5-10 minutes
2. Preparing Dry Ingredients
- Sift bread flour into a large mixing bowl
- Add salt and mix well
3. Mixing and Kneading the Dough
- Combine yeast mixture with flour
- Knead for 15-20 minutes until smooth and elastic
- Add soft butter during the last few minutes of kneading
- Perform the windowpane test to check dough consistency
4. First Proofing
- Place dough in a greased bowl
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour
- Tip: Use a switched-off oven with a cup of hot water for optimal rising
5. Preparing Garlic Butter
- Mix garlic paste, soft butter, chili flakes, chopped parsley, and salt
- Ensure ingredients are well combined
6. Shaping and Filling
- Punch down the risen dough
- Roll out evenly
- Spread garlic butter generously
- Add a mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheese
- Cut and stack in a bread mold
7. Second Proofing
- Let dough rise for another hour
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Brush additional garlic butter on top
8. Baking
- Bake for 30 minutes
- Look for golden brown color and crispy edges
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250-300
- Total Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 10g
- Preparation Time: 2.5 hours
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
Pro Cooking Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing
- Don’t rush the proofing process
- Ensure even spreading of garlic butter
- Check bread midway to prevent over-browning
Variations and Substitutions
- Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version
- Try different cheese combinations
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme
- Make it spicier with extra chili flakes
- Use vegan butter and cheese for a plant-based option
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this bread ahead of time? Prepare dough a day in advance and refrigerate
- How do I store leftover garlic bread? Wrap in foil, refrigerate, and reheat in oven
- Can I freeze this bread? Yes, freeze before final baking for up to 1 month
- What if my dough doesn’t rise? Check yeast freshness and ensure warm environment
- Can I use all-purpose flour? Yes, but reduce liquid slightly and expect different texture
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in airtight container for 2-3 days
- Reheat in oven for crispy texture
- Freeze unbaked dough for future use
- Best enjoyed warm and fresh
Prepare to be amazed by the most incredible cheesy garlic bread you’ve ever tasted!