Garlic Cheese Flatbread is a perfect combination of soft, pillowy dough topped with a deliciously creamy garlic spread and melty cheese. With the rich flavor of cream cheese, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this bread is an absolute treat for garlic and cheese lovers. It is incredibly easy to make and can be enjoyed as a side dish, a snack, or a great addition to any meal. The recipe combines the wonderful flavors of fresh yeast dough, garlic, and cheese, creating a delightful and aromatic bread that will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly. The golden, crispy edges combined with the cheesy, creamy center make this garlic bread irresistible.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (includes dough rising)
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 200 g (1 ⅔ cups) all-purpose flour
- 120-140 ml (½ cup + 2 tablespoons) warm milk
- 3 g (1 teaspoon) fresh yeast
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- A pinch of salt
For the Garlic Spread:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese (Philadelphia type)
- 1 teaspoon mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons parsley, finely chopped
- 10 g (1 tablespoon) Parmesan cheese, grated
For the Topping:
- 150 g (1½ cups) grated cheese (mozzarella or similar)
- A pinch of oregano
- A pinch of basil
Directions:
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture while stirring, ensuring the dough comes together. You can use a spoon or your hands for this step.
- Once the dough starts to come together, knead it on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean cloth and place it in a warm spot to rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
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Prepare the Garlic Spread:
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, cream cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until smooth and well incorporated.
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Assemble the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roll out the risen dough into a round or oval shape, about 1 cm (½ inch) thick. Place the rolled dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spread the prepared garlic mixture evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly on top of the garlic spread. Finish by adding a pinch of oregano and basil.
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Bake:
- Bake the flatbread in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges of the bread are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Once baked, remove the flatbread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve the garlic cheese flatbread warm, either on its own or as a side dish with your favorite meals.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dish: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and tasty meal.
- Appetizer: Serve as an appetizer for dinner parties or gatherings, perfect with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with Pasta: This bread complements pasta dishes wonderfully. It’s great with anything from a simple tomato pasta to creamy Alfredo.
- Snack: Enjoy it as a quick snack with your favorite dips or salsas.
Health Benefits:
- Garlic: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and can help with blood circulation, reducing cholesterol levels and improving heart health.
- Cheese: Cheese is a good source of calcium, essential for healthy bones and teeth. It also provides protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. It is also rich in antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian, making it an excellent option for those following a plant-based diet.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: To make this dish dairy-free, use vegan cheese and vegan cream cheese.
Tips:
- Dough Texture: If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of warm milk at a time until the dough reaches the right consistency.
- Herb Substitutes: You can add other herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the garlic spread for a different flavor.
- Garlic Intensity: Adjust the garlic in the recipe based on your personal preference. For a milder flavor, use fewer cloves, or roast the garlic first for a sweeter, softer taste.
Variations to Try:
- Cheese Variations: Instead of mozzarella, try using feta, gouda, or cheddar for a different taste.
- Add Veggies: For a healthier twist, add spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes on top before baking.
- Stuffed Bread: Transform this flatbread into a stuffed bread by adding cooked chicken, ham, or vegetables inside before baking.
Conclusion:
This Garlic Cheese Flatbread recipe is simple, flavorful, and versatile. With its crispy edges, creamy garlic spread, and melty cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food to serve at any gathering or enjoy on its own. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced cook, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. The combination of fresh garlic, creamy cheese, and herbs creates a mouth-watering experience that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and store it in the fridge to rise overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking. -
Can I freeze this garlic bread?
Yes, you can freeze the baked flatbread for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through. -
Can I use dried yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dried yeast. Use half the amount of dried yeast (about 1/2 teaspoon for this recipe) and follow the same activation process with warm water.
Enjoy your Homemade Garlic Cheese Flatbread!