KOREAN CREAM CHEESE GARLIC BREAD

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Introduction :-

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is a delicious and popular street food that combines the savory flavor of garlic with the sweet and creamy taste of cream cheese. Originating in South Korea, this unique twist on traditional garlic bread has quickly gained popularity worldwide. This comprehensive guide will take you through every step of creating this delectable treat, ensuring that you can enjoy this Korean delight right at home.

Ingredients :-

For the Bread:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp salt

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions :-

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

  1. Activate the Yeast:
  • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar.
  • Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  1. Mix the Dough:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  • Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs.
  • Mix until a dough forms.
  1. Knead the Dough:
  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
  • Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a bit more milk.
  1. First Rise:
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Shaping the Bread

  1. Divide the Dough:
  • Punch down the risen dough to release the air.
  • Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
  1. Shape the Dough:
  • Shape each portion into a round ball.
  • Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  1. Second Rise:
  • Cover the dough balls with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they have doubled in size again.

Step 3: Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. Mix the Filling:
  • In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
  • Mix until smooth and creamy.
  1. Fill a Piping Bag:
  • Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.

Step 4: Preparing the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Melt the Butter:
  • In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
  1. Add the Ingredients:
  • Once the butter is melted, remove from heat and add the minced garlic, honey, finely chopped parsley, sweetened condensed milk, mayonnaise, and salt.
  • Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Assembling the Bread

  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  1. Make Slits in the Bread:
  • Once the dough balls have risen, use a sharp knife to make 6-8 equal slits on each ball, but do not cut all the way through. The cuts should create wedges that can be filled.
  1. Fill with Cream Cheese:
  • Pipe the cream cheese filling into each slit, making sure to fill each wedge generously.
  1. Dip in Garlic Butter Sauce:
  • Carefully dip each filled bread into the garlic butter sauce, ensuring that the sauce coats the bread thoroughly, especially within the slits.

Step 6: Baking

  1. Bake the Bread:
  • Place the coated and filled bread back on the baking sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the filling is slightly bubbly.
  1. Final Touches:
  • Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
  • Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Step 7: Serving

  1. Serve Warm:
  • Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread is best enjoyed warm.
  • Serve as a snack, appetizer, or alongside a main dish.
  1. Storing Leftovers:
  • If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Tips and Variations

Tips:

  • Ensure the yeast is active: Make sure your yeast is frothy after activation. If not, the yeast might be dead, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
  • Soft Dough: The dough should be soft but not sticky. Adjust the flour and milk as needed.
  • Consistent Sizes: Make sure to divide the dough into equal portions for uniform baking.

Variations:-

  • Herb Butter: Add different herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter for varied flavors.
  • Cheese Filling: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese with the cream cheese filling for an extra cheesy experience.
  • Sweet Version: Replace the garlic butter with a sweet cinnamon butter and the cream cheese with a sweet cream cheese filling for a dessert version.

Conclusion :-

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread combines the delightful flavors of garlic, butter, and sweet cream cheese, making it a unique and irresistible treat. With this detailed recipe, you can recreate this popular Korean street food at home. Enjoy the process of baking and savor the delicious outcome with your loved ones. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, an appetizer, or a side dish, this bread is sure to impress. Happy baking!

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