This Cheesy Garlic Bread with Green Onions is a soft and fluffy bread topped with a flavorful garlic butter spread and melted Mozzarella, making it a perfect savory treat. The lozenge pattern on the bread not only looks beautiful but also allows the cheese to melt deliciously into every cut.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Proofing Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 125 ml (1/2 cup + 1 tsp) milk, lukewarm
- 15 g (1 tbsp) sugar
- 4 g (1 tsp) instant dry yeast
- 30 g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
- 210 g (1 + 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 3 g (1/2 tsp) salt
For the Topping:
- 15 g (1 tbsp) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 egg yolk (optional)
- 1/4 tsp sugar
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 garlic clove, mashed (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp green onions or scallions, finely chopped
- 115 g (4 oz) Mozzarella cheese, cut into thin strips
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the lukewarm milk, sugar, yeast, and melted butter. Stir until combined.
- Add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing with a spatula until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a bit more milk. Aim for a slightly sticky dough rather than a dry one.
- Transfer the dough onto a work surface and knead for about 15 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and passes the “windowpane test” (stretching the dough without tearing).
- Shape the dough into a ball, place it on a lined baking tray, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour (such as a preheated oven that’s turned off).
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the room-temperature butter, egg yolk (if using), sugar, salt, mashed garlic, and chopped green onions. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, gently flatten it with your fingers into a round shape, about 20 cm (8 inches) in diameter and 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick.
- Use a sharp knife to score the surface deeply, creating a lozenge (diamond) pattern.
- Spread the prepared topping evenly over the surface of the dough, ensuring it seeps into the scored lines. Pass the blade through the scores again to redefine the lozenge pattern.
- Insert the thin strips of Mozzarella cheese into the scored lines.
- Bake:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) with upper and lower heat (no fan) for about 15 minutes or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately while warm, allowing everyone to pull apart the cheesy sections.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a side with soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
- Serve as a snack or appetizer for gatherings and parties.
Cooking Tips
- Windowpane Test: Ensure your dough is well-kneaded by stretching a small piece; it should form a thin, translucent “windowpane” without tearing.
- Scoring the Bread: A deep score allows the topping and cheese to seep in, making every bite flavorful.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein-Rich: Mozzarella adds protein and calcium, contributing to muscle and bone health.
- Whole Ingredients: Made with real butter, cheese, and fresh green onions, this bread is rich in natural flavors.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat products.
- Nut-Free: Safe for those with nut allergies.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, estimated)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and Cheesy: The bread’s soft texture and cheesy filling make it irresistible.
- Quick Rise: Uses instant yeast for faster proofing, so you can enjoy fresh bread in no time.
- Customizable: Adjust the garlic and green onions to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Garlic Bread with Green Onions is not just a delicious treat but also a fun and satisfying baking project. Its soft, cheesy, and garlicky goodness is sure to be a hit, whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Try it out, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, feel free to use cheddar, Gouda, or any melty cheese you prefer. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made and left to rise overnight in the refrigerator. - What if I don’t have instant yeast?
Use active dry yeast; proof it in warm milk with sugar for 5-10 minutes before mixing. - Can I skip the egg yolk in the topping?
Yes, the egg yolk adds richness, but it can be omitted without drastically changing the taste. - How can I make the bread fluffier?
Ensure proper kneading and proofing times; don’t rush the rise for optimal fluffiness. - Can I add herbs to the dough?
Yes, herbs like rosemary or thyme can be kneaded into the dough for extra flavor. - How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature or reheat in the oven to refresh. - Can I use whole wheat flour?
Whole wheat flour can be used, but the texture will be denser and may need extra liquid. - What if I don’t have a no-fan oven?
Reduce the temperature slightly and keep an eye on the bread as it bakes. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for bread baking, and adjust liquids as needed.
Enjoy baking this delicious cheesy garlic bread, and share it with family and friends!