Pin it
There is something so irresistible about warm cheesy garlic bread fresh from the oven and these Cheesy Garlic Butter Bombs deliver that pull apart magic in individual bites Each roll is overflowing with gooey cheese and savory herb butter making them a guaranteed crowd pleaser whenever you need a tempting appetizer or side
I still remember making a double batch for my daughter’s birthday sleepover and every last one vanished before I could blink Cheesy hands and giggles all around
Ingredients
- Warm milk: provides a cozy environment for yeast to activate and keeps the dough tender use whole milk for the richest crumb
- Active dry yeast: creates lift and makes these rolls pillowy fresh always check that your yeast bubbles before proceeding
- Granulated sugar: helps feed the yeast and adds just a touch of sweetness for balance
- Unsalted butter: gives richness and a soft crumb in both dough and filling choose high quality for more flavor
- Egg: ensures a plush and fluffy texture pick a large fresh egg
- All purpose flour: brings the structure use the spoon and level method to measure for accuracy
- Garlic: gives the essential pungent aroma and punch choose fresh cloves for best flavor
- Fresh parsley: brightens everything up and lends color flat leaf variety is ideal but curly works too
- Mozzarella cheese: brings the perfect melt with stretchy texture shred your own from a block for ultimate gooeyness
- Parmesan cheese: deepens the flavor and adds a deliciously salty bite grate finely for best distribution
- Salt and pepper: round out the savory flavors and highlight all the cheesy goodness always taste and adjust for your preference
Instructions
- Proof the Yeast:
- Pour warm milk into a large bowl and sprinkle yeast and sugar over the top Let it sit for five to ten minutes until it becomes foamy which shows the yeast is active and strong
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk in melted butter salt and egg into the foamy yeast mixture Mix well to combine everything thoroughly this will ensure a soft tender dough
- Add Flour:
- Slowly add the flour one cup at a time stirring gently until a soft sticky dough begins to form It may take a little more or less flour depending on humidity keep mixing until just combined
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface Knead by hand for five to seven minutes until it feels smooth and elastic The dough should not stick heavily to your hands but remain soft
- First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it sit in a warm spot for one hour to one and a half hours until doubled in size You can test by gently pressing with a finger the dough should spring back slowly
- Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- In a small bowl mix softened butter minced garlic chopped parsley mozzarella cheese Parmesan cheese salt and pepper Stir until everything is evenly combined You will use this as the hidden flavor bomb inside every roll
- Shape the Bombs:
- Punch down the risen dough to remove excess air Divide into twelve equal pieces Flatten each piece into a little round Place a heaping spoonful of cheese filling in the center Pinch the edges tightly together so no cheese escapes during baking
- Second Rise:
- Arrange the filled dough balls seam side down on a parchment lined baking sheet Cover loosely and let rise for another thirty minutes so they get extra puffy
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Bake for fifteen to twenty minutes until golden brown and bubbly and your kitchen smells absolutely heavenly
- Finish and Serve:
- Let the bombs cool for just a couple minutes then brush with more melted butter and a flurry of fresh parsley for that bakery finish Serve warm while the cheese is still blissfully melty
Out of every batch I bake the combination of warm parsley and roasted garlic filling the kitchen is honestly my favorite part My kids once called them “magic dinner rolls” because the cheese pulls just keep coming
Storage Tips
Store leftover Garlic Butter Bombs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days For longer freshness keep them in the fridge and simply rewarm in the oven at a low temperature before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use Monterey Jack or fontina in place of mozzarella A bit of chopped chives or basil can replace parsley for a new twist If you cannot find fresh yeast use instant yeast at a one to one swap
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bombs warm with a bowl of marinara for dipping They also pair deliciously with soup or salad making weeknight meals extra special
Cultural and Historical Context
Bread filled with cheese and herbs is a tradition found worldwide from Eastern European pampushky to Middle Eastern manakish These bombs draw inspiration from many family tables and comfort traditions
Seasonal Adaptations
Substitute in chopped fresh basil or oregano for summer vibes Stuff with smoked provolone during colder months for depth Add a touch of red pepper flakes if you want a slightly spicy kick
Success Stories
I once served these for a football party and they were devoured in minutes Guests even asked for the recipe on the spot
Freezer Meal Conversion
Let bombs cool completely Arrange in a single layer in a ziptop bag and freeze for up to two months To enjoy reheat in a three hundred fifty degree oven until hot and the cheese flows again
Serve these bombs warm for the best experience The gooey cheese center makes every bite irresistible
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes these buns soft and fluffy?
The dough rises twice, ensuring a light, airy crumb. Warm milk, yeast, and an egg enrich the texture.
- → Can I use a different cheese filling?
Yes, feel free to substitute mozzarella or Parmesan with your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor twist.
- → How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Seal the dough edges tightly after placing the filling and set them seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- → Are these suitable for making ahead?
Yes, you can shape the buns and let them rise, then refrigerate until ready to bake for fresh results.
- → What can I serve alongside these buns?
They pair well with hearty soups, salads, or as a tasty appetizer for pasta dishes and main meals.