Simple and Delicious Garlic Butter Bread: A Must-Try Recipe

There’s something absolutely irresistible about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen—especially when that bread is rich with butter, fragrant garlic, and melted cheese. This Simple and Delicious Garlic Butter Bread recipe is the definition of comfort food, the kind of recipe that brings people together and gets devoured before it ever has a chance to cool. Whether you’re making it as a side dish for dinner, a snack for guests, or a treat just for yourself, this garlic butter bread is bound to become your go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Garlic Butter Bread

Garlic butter bread has universal appeal. It’s:

• Easy to make with pantry staples
• Versatile as a snack, appetizer, or side
• Delicious with a crispy top, fluffy center, and gooey cheese
• Customizable to match your preferences
• Crowd-pleasing at any gathering or dinner table

Ingredients for the Dough, Butter, and Toppings

Let’s break down what you’ll need for each element of the recipe.

For the Dough:

• 70 ml warm water
• 70 ml warm milk
• 1 teaspoon dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 320 g all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Garlic Butter:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• A handful of parsley, chopped
• 60 g butter, softened
• A pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon honey

For the Topping:

• Mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
• 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 teaspoon milk (egg wash)
• Poppy seeds (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Start by activating your yeast. In a small bowl, mix warm water, warm milk, dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it’s frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, and your yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt. Mix until the dough starts to form and then knead it on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

2. Make the Garlic Butter

While your dough is rising, prepare the garlic butter. Mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, pinch of salt, and honey together in a small bowl. The honey adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the savory garlic.

3. Roll and Fill the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1 cm thick. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the surface.

4. Shape the Bread

Roll the dough tightly into a log from the long side. Slice the log into pieces about 2–3 cm thick. These swirled rolls are what will give your garlic bread its distinct look and layered texture.

5. Add the Toppings

Place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking tray with a little space between each one. Brush them with the egg wash, sprinkle with poppy seeds if desired, and top each one with a slice or sprinkle of mozzarella.

6. Let It Rest, Then Bake

While your oven preheats to 180°C (350°F), let the shaped dough rest for about 15 minutes. Then, bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown, and the cheese is bubbly and irresistible.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Let the bread cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm and enjoy the layers of garlic, butter, and cheese in every bite.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Bread

• Use fresh yeast for the best rise.
• Don’t over-knead the dough; you want it soft and pliable.
• Make it cheesy by adding more mozzarella or mixing in parmesan.
• Add herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil for flavor variations.
• Use high-quality butter—it makes a big difference.

Variations to Try

• Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread: Place the dough in a round pan for pull-apart rolls.
• Stuffed Bread: Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions to the filling.
• Spicy Garlic Bread: Mix chili flakes into the garlic butter.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and omit the cheese or use vegan cheese.

Nutritional Benefits

While garlic butter bread is certainly indulgent, it does have some nutritional perks:

• Garlic is known for immune-boosting properties.
• Parsley adds freshness and vitamin K.
• Homemade dough means fewer preservatives and more control over ingredients.

Serving Ideas

Pair your garlic butter bread with:

• Pasta dishes (especially spaghetti or fettuccine Alfredo)
• Soups like tomato, lentil, or creamy mushroom
• Salads (Caesar, Greek, or mixed greens)
• As a brunch or appetizer board centerpiece

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep ahead: You can shape and refrigerate the dough overnight.
• Freezing: Freeze baked rolls in an airtight bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, use the same quantity and skip the proofing step.

2. What cheese works best?
Mozzarella is perfect, but you can also try cheddar or Gruyère.

3. Can I skip the honey?
Yes, it’s optional—but it does balance the flavors nicely.

4. How do I make it crispier?
Bake a few extra minutes and place under the broiler briefly.

5. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. Mix with all-purpose for best results.

6. Is this good for kids?
Absolutely—it’s kid-approved and great for lunchboxes!

7. Can I make this without eggs?
Yes. Use a plant-based milk wash instead of egg wash.

8. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

9. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but fresh mozzarella melts better.

10. Do I have to use poppy seeds?
Nope! They’re optional and mainly for texture and appearance.

Final Thoughts: Garlic Bread That Delivers Every Time

This Simple and Delicious Garlic Butter Bread recipe proves that sometimes the best things in life are homemade and buttery. From its fluffy dough to its garlicky richness and cheesy topping, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or just indulging in some well-deserved me-time, this bread will not disappoint. One bite and you’ll be hooked. So go ahead—whip up a batch and experience the magic of garlic, butter, and bread done right.

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