Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and flavor of Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites, a perfect fusion of soft, fluffy bread, buttery garlic goodness, and melty mozzarella cheese. These golden, pull-apart bites are ideal for any occasion, whether as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. With a slight kick from green chilies, this easy-to-make bread will satisfy your cravings in no time!

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 40 minutes (including resting time)
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 55-60 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp (3g) yeast
  • 1 tbsp (12g) sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) oil
  • 110 ml (½ cup) lukewarm milk

For the Garlic Butter:

  • 2 tbsp (28g) softened butter
  • 2 tsp (5g) minced garlic
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper powder, to taste

Toppings:

  • ½ cup (60g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a bowl, mix flour, yeast, sugar, salt, oil, and lukewarm milk.
    • Knead the mixture for 5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth.
    • Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
  2. Make Garlic Butter:
    • In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
  3. Shape the Dough:
    • Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle or oval shape.
    • Cut into bite-sized pieces or strips as desired.
  4. Assemble & Bake:
    • Brush the garlic butter evenly over the dough pieces.
    • Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and chopped green chilies (optional).
    • Make light cuts on the dough to create a pull-apart effect.
    • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese melts beautifully.
  5. Serve & Enjoy:
    • Let the bread cool for a few minutes before serving.
    • Best enjoyed warm with a side of marinara sauce or creamy dip.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with tomato soup for a comforting meal.
  • Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced side dish.
  • Enjoy with pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna.
  • Serve as an appetizer for parties with a selection of dipping sauces.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the milk is lukewarm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
  • Knead the dough well for a soft and airy texture.
  • For a more flavorful garlic butter, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or chili flakes.
  • Let the dough rest properly to ensure a good rise.
  • If using an air fryer, bake at 160°C (320°F) for about 12-15 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Garlic is rich in antioxidants and supports immunity.
  • Mozzarella cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein.
  • Yeast helps in digestion and provides B vitamins.
  • Homemade bread is free from preservatives found in store-bought versions.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-friendly
  • Can be made egg-free
  • Not gluten-free (but can use gluten-free flour)
  • Not dairy-free (but can use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese)

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180-200 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g

Storage

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
  • Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in the oven for a fresh taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make with minimal ingredients.
  • Soft and fluffy texture with a rich garlic flavor.
  • Perfect for any occasion, from snacks to party appetizers.
  • Customizable with different cheeses, herbs, or spice levels.

Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites are a delightfully crispy yet soft, cheesy snack that’s perfect for any meal or gathering. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a bakery-style bread at home. The rich garlic butter and gooey cheese make it irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe will always be a hit!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
    Yes, but the texture may be denser. You can use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a softer result.
  2. What can I use instead of yeast?
    You can use baking powder (1 tsp) and baking soda (½ tsp) as a substitute, but the texture will be different.
  3. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
    Use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese. Almond or oat milk can replace regular milk.
  4. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
    Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and let it come to room temperature before rolling.
  5. Why didn’t my bread rise properly?
    Check if your yeast is active and if your milk was lukewarm (not hot or cold).
  6. Can I make this in a skillet instead of the oven?
    Yes! Cook covered on low heat for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
  7. How do I make this recipe spicier?
    Add red chili flakes or jalapeños to the garlic butter.
  8. What cheese works best for this recipe?
    Mozzarella is ideal, but you can also use cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for extra flavor.
  9. Can I double the recipe?
    Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in batches if needed.
  10. How do I reheat leftover garlic bread?
    Reheat in an oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes to keep it crispy, or in a microwave for 30 seconds for a softer texture.