Cheesy Garlic Bread

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

  1. Can I make this bread ahead of time? Prepare dough a day in advance and refrigerate
  2. How do I store leftover garlic bread? Wrap in foil, refrigerate, and reheat in oven
  3. Can I freeze this bread? Yes, freeze before final baking for up to 1 month
  4. What if my dough doesn’t rise? Check yeast freshness and ensure warm environment
  5. 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!