By Suprita Mitter
December 7, 2024
Creating café-style garlic bread at home is easier than you think. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a bit of attention to detail, you can achieve that perfectly crisp, buttery, and flavorful garlic bread. Here are seven tips to help you nail it.
The base of great garlic bread is quality bread. Opt for a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough loaf with a firm crust and soft interior. Slice it horizontally or diagonally for better surface area to hold the garlic butter.
Fresh garlic is key to authentic flavour. Mince or crush the garlic finely to release its oils and aroma. For a milder flavour, roast the garlic beforehand for a caramelised sweetness.
Mix softened unsalted butter with garlic, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and a touch of olive oil. Add grated parmesan or a pinch of chilli flakes for extra flavour. Ensure the butter is spreadable and evenly mixed.
Be generous with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring it covers every corner of the bread. A good coating ensures a rich, café-like taste in every bite.
Preheat your oven to 190°C. Bake the garlic bread on a baking sheet for 10–15 minutes until the edges are crisp and golden, but the center remains soft. For an extra crunch, broil it for a minute at the end.
To replicate café-style indulgence, sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan on top before baking. The melted cheese adds richness and a gooey texture.
Garlic bread tastes best when served straight out of the oven. Pair it with marinara sauce, soups, or salads for a complete café-style experience.