Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

Short Description

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is a unique and indulgent twist on traditional garlic bread. This popular South Korean street food combines the rich flavors of garlic butter with the creamy, slightly sweet taste of cream cheese. The bread is split into sections, filled with a luscious cream cheese mixture, and coated in a flavorful garlic butter sauce before being baked to perfection. The result is a crispy, golden crust with a soft, creamy interior that is both savory and slightly sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A delightful combination of flavors – The mix of savory garlic butter and sweet cream cheese makes for an irresistible treat.
• Crunchy yet creamy texture – The crispy exterior complements the soft and creamy interior.
• A popular Korean street food at home – Enjoy this trendy dish without traveling to South Korea.
• Perfect for sharing – Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or even a unique brunch item.
• Customizable – Easily modify the filling or topping to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• Soft bread rolls (preferably round, brioche-style)
• Cream cheese
• Granulated sugar
• Heavy cream
• Egg yolk
• Unsalted butter
• Garlic cloves
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Dried parsley
• Salt
• Eggs
• Whole milk

Directions

1. Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, heavy cream, and egg yolk until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag for easy filling.
2. Slice the bread: Take round bread rolls and slice them into six or eight equal sections, making sure not to cut all the way through. The base should remain intact to hold the filling.
3. Fill the bread: Pipe the cream cheese mixture into each section of the sliced bread, ensuring each gap is generously filled.
4. Make the garlic butter mixture: In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter, then add minced garlic, sweetened condensed milk, dried parsley, salt, eggs, and whole milk. Stir well until combined.
5. Coat the bread: Dip each filled bread roll into the garlic butter mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the coated bread rolls on a baking tray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and enjoy: Allow the bread to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best taste and texture.

Variations

• Cheese Lover’s Version: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar inside the bread for an extra cheesy pull.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a bit of chili flakes or sriracha into the garlic butter for a spicy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic boost.
• Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey over the finished bread enhances the sweet-savory balance.
• Vegan Alternative: Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and egg substitutes.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought bread?

Yes! While homemade bread is great, soft round rolls like brioche or dinner rolls work well.

2. Is the sweetened condensed milk necessary?

It adds a subtle sweetness, but you can substitute it with honey or omit it for a more savory version.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and store the coated bread in the fridge, then bake when ready.

4. How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Make sure to bake it at the right temperature and avoid over-soaking it in the garlic butter mixture.

5. What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?

Leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave in short bursts (10 seconds at a time).

6. Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but pre-minced works in a pinch.

7. What other types of bread can I use?

Baguettes, sourdough, or milk bread can be used, but brioche gives the best soft texture.

8. Can I make a smaller batch?

Yes, simply adjust the ingredient proportions accordingly.

9. Is this bread very sweet?

It has a mild sweetness, but you can reduce the sugar or omit the condensed milk if you prefer it more savory.

10. Can I air fry instead of baking?

Yes! Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.

Conclusion

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is a must-try fusion of flavors and textures. Its rich, garlicky aroma and creamy interior make it an irresistible snack or appetizer. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or just indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and bring a taste of Korea’s street food into your home!

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