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Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread

Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread

Cheese and Garlic Crack Bread is the ultimate pull-apart indulgence — a golden, crusty loaf stuffed with buttery garlic flavor and oozing melted cheese in every bite. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, this easy appetizer looks impressive but takes just minutes to prepare. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside — pure comfort food perfection!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American, Australian", Party Food
Calories: 330
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bread
  • 1 loaf crusty bread (sourdough or Vienna style) firm crust holds best for stuffing
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or other melting cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack
For the Garlic Butter
  • 100 g unsalted butter softened to room temperature (1 stick / 8 tbsp)
  • 2 cloves garlic finely minced or pressed
  • 0.75 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • pinch chili flakes or Italian seasoning (optional) for extra flavor

Method
 

  1. Step 1 – Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a baking tray lined with foil.
  2. Step 2 – Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a heatproof bowl, combine butter, minced garlic, and salt. Melt in the microwave for about 30 seconds until smooth, then stir in chopped parsley and optional chili flakes or Italian seasoning.
  3. Step 3 – Slice the Bread: Place the loaf on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, cut diagonal slices about 2 cm apart, then cut in the opposite direction to form a crisscross pattern. Be careful not to cut all the way through the base.
  4. Step 4 – Fill the Cracks: Gently separate the bread gaps and spoon or drizzle garlic butter into each crack, followed by shredded cheese. Distribute evenly for maximum flavor.
  5. Step 5 – Butter the Top: Brush any remaining garlic butter over the surface of the loaf, allowing it to drip slightly for a crisp, golden finish.
  6. Step 6 – Bake the Bread: Wrap the loaf loosely in foil and bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is mostly melted. Unwrap and bake uncovered for another 5–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
  7. Step 7 – Serve Warm: Serve immediately while the bread is hot and gooey. Place on a wooden board and let guests pull apart pieces — it’s part of the fun!

Notes

💡 Tips:
• Use sourdough or Vienna bread for the best structure.
• Mix mozzarella and cheddar for extra cheesy flavor.
• Add herbs like rosemary or chives for a gourmet twist.
• To make ahead, assemble the loaf and refrigerate up to 8 hours before baking.
• To freeze, wrap the unbaked loaf tightly in foil and freeze up to 1 month.