Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is an irresistible treat that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This fluffy, cheesy delight is ideal for gatherings, movie nights, or as a comforting snack. The creamy filling combined with a crispy exterior makes it a standout dish that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combo: The blend of cream cheese and garlic creates a rich taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this tasty bread ready in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack at any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it great for family gatherings or parties.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to add herbs or spices according to your taste preferences!

Tools and Preparation

To make Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the cream cheese filling and ensuring even mixing of ingredients.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking the bread evenly without burning.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 200g cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• Salt to taste

To Top the Bread

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

How to Make Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix well.
2. In another bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons instant yeast in 1 cup warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil into the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

1. Place the kneaded dough in a greased mixing bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
2. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 200g softened cream cheese, 4 tablespoons softened butter, and 6 minced garlic cloves. Mix until smooth.
2. Add in the chopped parsley and salt to taste. Stir well to incorporate.

Step 4: Assemble the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions (about 8 pieces).
3. Take one piece of dough and flatten it out into a circle about 5 inches wide.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in the center of each circle.
5. Gather the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch them together to seal.

Step 5: Bake

1. Arrange sealed dough balls on a lined baking sheet. Brush with melted butter (2 tablespoons) and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread warm!

How to Serve Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is a delightful treat that pairs well with various dishes and drinks. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Coffee

• Espresso: The strong flavor of espresso complements the sweetness of the bread.
• Cappuccino: The creamy texture balances the garlic’s richness.

Serve as an Appetizer

• Cheese Platter: Arrange various cheeses alongside for a savory contrast.
• Vegetable Crudités: Fresh veggies add a crunchy element, perfect for dipping in cream cheese.

Enjoy with Salads

• Caesar Salad: The garlicky notes in the bread pair nicely with the creamy dressing.
• Greek Salad: The refreshing flavors of cucumber and feta complement the bread’s richness.

How to Perfect Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

To achieve the best results when making Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic (about 3-4 cloves) to ensure a robust flavor.
• Adjust cream cheese consistency: Soften 8 oz of cream cheese at room temperature for easy spreading.
• Add herbs for flavor: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley or chives for extra freshness.
• Control oven temperature: Bake at 375°F (190°C) to get a perfectly crispy exterior without burning.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes (1 teaspoon) for a spicy kick.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread can be complemented by several side dishes that will enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to serve alongside.

1. Kimchi Fried Rice: This flavorful dish adds a spicy kick, balancing the richness of the bread.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl provides a comforting touch, making it an excellent pairing.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled with olive oil (2 tablespoons) add color and nutrition.
4. Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry: Tofu cooked in chili sauce offers protein and heat to your meal.
5. Seaweed Salad: The lightness of seaweed salad contrasts nicely with the heaviness of the bread.
6. Pickled Radishes: These add a tangy crunch that brightens up each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes that ruin the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using stale bread – Always use fresh bread for the best texture and taste. Stale bread won’t hold the creamy filling well.
• Overloading with garlic – Stick to 4 cloves of minced garlic. Using more can overpower the dish and make it too pungent.
• Not measuring cream cheese – Use exactly 8 ounces of cream cheese. Too much or too little can affect the consistency of your filling.
• Ignoring baking time – Bake for 15-20 minutes. Overbaking will dry out the bread, while underbaking leaves it doughy.
• Skipping the herbs – Don’t forget to add 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley or chives. This adds a pop of flavor that balances the richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds per piece. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make it chewy.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping once until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread.

What is Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread?

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is a deliciously fluffy bread filled with a creamy garlic and cheese mixture, offering a perfect blend of savory flavors.

How do I make the cream cheese filling?

To make the filling, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 4 cloves of minced garlic, and mix well until smooth.

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes, you can use any soft bread like brioche or Texas toast. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold the filling.

What toppings can I add to my Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread?

Consider adding toppings like shredded mozzarella (about 1 cup) or crushed red pepper flakes (1 teaspoon) for extra flavor and texture.

How long does it take to prepare Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, plus an additional baking time of 15-20 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress at any meal!