Garlic Bread

Cheesy Garlic Bread: A Buttery, Flavor-Packed Delight

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Make the perfect cheesy garlic bread with this easy recipe! Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with garlic butter flavor.

Introduction

Garlic bread is a classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or as a stand-alone snack. The crispy crust, fluffy interior, and rich, buttery garlic flavor make it a favorite for many. Adding mozzarella cheese takes this already delicious bread to the next level, creating a gooey, melty delight in every bite.

Homemade garlic bread is incredibly easy to prepare, and the aroma of freshly baked bread infused with garlic butter is simply irresistible. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just craving a warm, cheesy treat, this recipe ensures you achieve bakery-style garlic bread right in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour  

- 1 tablespoon sugar  

- 1 tablespoon instant yeast  

- 2 tablespoons milk powder  

- 1 teaspoon salt  

- 2-3 tablespoons oil  

- Warm water (as needed)  

For the Garlic Butter:

- 2 teaspoons crushed garlic  

- 1/4 teaspoon crushed chili flakes  

- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley  

- Mozzarella cheese (as required)  

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, instant yeast, milk powder, and salt.

2. Add 2–3 tablespoons of oil and mix well.

3. Gradually add warm water while kneading until a soft, smooth dough forms.

4. Knead further with 2–3 more tablespoons of oil for a glossy finish.

5. Cover the dough with cling film and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

1. In a bowl, mix crushed garlic, chili flakes, and dried parsley until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Garlic Bread

1. Divide the dough into two equal balls.

2. Roll each ball into an 8-inch circle.

3. Spread a layer of garlic butter evenly over the dough.

4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on one half of the dough.

5. Fold the dough over the cheese and press the edges to seal.

6. Grease a baking dish and place the garlic bread inside.

7. Make vertical cuts on top of the bread for easy slicing.

8. Brush the top with more garlic butter.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Bake for 7–10 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

- Enjoy your homemade garlic bread warm, paired with marinara sauce or your favorite dip!

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Preparation Time

- Preparation: 40 minutes (including dough rising time)

- Baking: 7–10 minutes

- Total Time: 50 minutes

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Servings

This recipe makes 2 garlic breads, serving 4–6 people.

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FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the texture may be denser. To keep it soft, use a 50:50 ratio of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.

2. How do I store leftover garlic bread?

Wrap in foil and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.

4. What can I serve with garlic bread?

It pairs well with pasta, soups, salads, or even as an appetizer with dipping sauces like marinara or ranch.

5. How can I make my garlic bread extra crispy?

Brush additional garlic butter on top and bake for an extra 2 minutes under the broiler for a crispy, golden crust.

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Conclusion

Garlic bread is a timeless favorite that’s easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. This recipe provides a foolproof method to achieve soft, fluffy bread filled with gooey mozzarella and a rich garlic butter flavor. Whether you're making it as a side dish or a snack, it's sure to impress family and friends.

The beauty of homemade garlic bread is that you can customize it to your taste. Add extra cheese, spice it up with more chili flakes, or even experiment with different herbs. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought garlic bread again! Happy baking!