🧄 Garlic Butter Crusty Bread
Main Dough
- 300g bread flour (2.5 cups)
- 165ml milk (2/3 cup)
- 1 large egg, about 50g
- 15g sugar (1 tbsp)
- 3g instant yeast (1 tsp)
- 4.5g salt (3/4 tsp)
- 15g unsalted butter (1 tbsp)
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 20g unsalted butter, softened (1.5 tbsp)
- 8g minced garlic (2 tsp)
- 10g honey (2 tsp)
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of chopped parsley
Step 1: Make the Dough
Mix everything except the butter and salt. Knead for 3 minutes. Cover and chill in the fridge for 1 hour.
Step 2: Add Butter & Shape
Take the dough out. Add salt and softened butter. Knead until smooth. Slap the dough 5 times to tighten it. Divide into 6 pieces, roll into balls, and let rest for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Mix butter, garlic, honey, salt, and parsley. Put it in a piping bag.
Step 4: Shape the Bread
Flatten each dough ball with your palm. Fold in half, pinch the seam, and roll into an oval shape.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Place on a tray. Let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size. Gently press the top — if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.
Step 6: Finish & Bake
Dust with flour. Pipe garlic butter sauce on top. Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 18 minutes until golden and crusty.
Garlic butter crusty bread is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with a satisfyingly crisp crust. Knowing how to make this bread from scratch can elevate your culinary skills and impress family and friends. When preparing the dough, using bread flour is essential as it gives the bread structure and chewiness due to its higher protein content. Chilling the dough after the initial mixing not only allows the flavors to develop but also helps relax the gluten, making the dough easier to work with during shaping. Adding softened unsalted butter and salt after the initial rest ensures better incorporation and enhances flavor without killing the yeast activity. The technique of slapping the dough tightens the gluten network, which contributes to a better crumb and crust texture. Making the garlic butter sauce is where the magic happens. Honey adds a subtle sweetness that balances the pungent garlic, while chopped parsley injects fresh herbal notes and a pop of color. Using a piping bag to apply the sauce enables even coverage and an attractive finish. Letting the shaped dough rise in a warm spot is crucial for achieving a light texture; the slow spring back test confirms it's ready for baking. Dusting with flour before baking adds a rustic touch and prevents sticking. Baking at 180°C (356°F) for about 18 minutes creates a golden, crusty exterior while ensuring the bread remains soft inside. For varied flavors, consider adding grated Parmesan or mixed herbs into the garlic butter sauce or experimenting with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. Garlic butter crusty bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or can be enjoyed on its own. This recipe is approachable for both beginner and experienced bakers, making it a versatile addition to your bread repertoire.
