There’s an enchanting moment that happens in my kitchen when the air is infused with the rich aroma of garlic and fresh herbs. As the Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread rises, I can’t help but feel a wave of warmth, like a cozy hug from the holidays. This star-shaped loaf is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a showstopper that brings people together around the table, perfect for gatherings or simply indulging on a quiet evening at home.
After a long day, the last thing I want is to settle for fast food. Instead, I turn to this delightful bread that’s surprisingly easy to make and comes together in just a few simple steps. Imagine impressing family and friends with a soft, fluffy bread baked to golden perfection, all while you soak up the comforting scents of garlic and cheese filling the air. Trust me, once you pull this masterpiece from the oven, it will have everyone reaching for a piece—warm, buttery, and bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into the recipe together and create something truly special!
Why will you love Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread?
Simplicity: This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, allowing anyone to create stunning bread without advanced baking skills.
Aromatic Bliss: The intoxicating combination of garlic and fresh herbs fills your home with mouthwatering aromas, setting the perfect mood for any gathering.
Perfect for Sharing: The star-shaped design not only looks impressive but also encourages sharing, making it a delightful centerpiece for festive occasions.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it as a scrumptious appetizer, alongside your favorite soups, or dipped in oil for that extra zing.
Crowd Awesomeness: Your friends and family won’t be able to resist reaching for one more piece of this cheesy, buttery goodness!
Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Water – Hydrates the yeast; use room temperature water if it’s too hot.
• Sugar – Feeds the yeast for a better rise; can substitute with honey for a natural touch.
• Active Dry Yeast – Essential leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; bread flour makes for a chewier texture.
• Baking Powder – Helps with the rise; not necessary if using only yeast.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; replace with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Salt – Enhances flavors; reduce if using salted butter.
• Milk – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
For the Filling
• Boursin Garlic and Herb Cheese – Creamy filling that provides flavor; Rondele or Alouette can be used as substitutes.
• Shredded Parmesan – Adds a savory note; grated Romano is a great alternative.
• Fresh Parsley and Thyme – Elevates flavor; dried herbs can be swapped in, but reduce the amount used.
• Egg (beaten) – Acts as a wash for a beautiful golden color.
• Garlic (minced) – Flavor enhancer; adjust based on your preference for garlic intensity.
• Italian Seasoning, Parsley, Basil – Add a wonderful herbaceous touch to the garlic butter topping; use any preferred mixed herbs.
For the Garlic Butter Topping
• Unsalted Butter – Adds delicious richness; consider using infused varieties for extra flavor.
• Minced Garlic – Boosts flavor in the topping; feel free to adjust garlic to your taste.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread
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Prep Dough: In a stand mixer, combine warm water and sugar. Add the active dry yeast, letting it froth for about 5-10 minutes until bubbly—a sign your yeast is alive and ready to work wonders!
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution for that perfect dough texture.
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Knead Dough: Gradually add the frothy yeast mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by the softened unsalted butter and milk. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. Let it rise in a greased bowl, covered with a towel, for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the Boursin cheese, fresh parsley, softened butter, thyme, and beaten egg until you achieve a smooth filling that will melt beautifully into the bread.
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Shape Bread: Roll out half the risen dough on a floured surface into an 11-inch round. Spread the cheese filling evenly across, sprinkle with shredded parmesan, then place another dough round on top. Use a sharp knife to slice the dough into star points, creating a beautiful design.
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Proof and Bake: Allow the shaped bread to rise again for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Brush the dough with a beaten egg for a golden sheen, and bake for 23-36 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
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Finish with Garlic Butter: About 3 minutes before the bread is done baking, baste it with a mixture of melted garlic butter. This adds a glorious shine and flavor that is simply irresistible!
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Cool & Serve: Let the bread cool for a few moments before serving. It’s perfect warm, and don’t forget an olive oil dipping bowl for that extra touch!
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread?
Indulging in warm, savory bread creates the perfect opportunity to elevate your meal with delightful pairings.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: The rich acidity of tomato soup beautifully balances the cheesy, buttery flavors of the bread. Together, they create a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for chilly days.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with vinaigrette adds a crisp texture that contrasts with the soft bread, making each bite more enjoyable. Toss in some nuts or fruits for an extra punch of flavor!
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Garlic and Herb Dip: Enhance the garlic experience! Serve a smooth and velvety garlic herb dip for a dreamy pairing. This adds another layer of richness, perfect for those who love bold flavors.
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Braised Vegetables: Earthy, roasted veggies deliver a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that pairs exceptionally well with the savory bread. Caramelized flavors elevate your dining experience!
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Steamed Broccoli: Fresh, vibrant broccoli brings color to your plate and adds a nutritious touch. Its mild flavor allows the bread’s decadent profile to shine without overpowering it.
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Sparkling White Wine: A glass of crisp, sparkling white wine brings a celebratory touch to your meal. The bubbles cleanse the palate, highlighting the savory notes of the cheesy garlic bread.
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Homemade Bread Dipping Oil: Craft a mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and spices for a fantastic dip! This allows for an interactive dining experience while adding a delightful zest to every bite.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in something sweet! The gooey, rich chocolate cake complements the savory bread, creating an unforgettable meal balance.
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Herbed Olive Oil: Drizzling herb-infused olive oil over the warm bread accentuates its flavors and adds a luscious touch, making every slice extraordinary.
Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread Variations
Feel free to make this delightful bread your own with these fun and tasty options!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Boursin cheese with a plant-based alternative, and use vegan butter and almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a zesty kick that will awaken your taste buds.
- Herbed Delight: Instead of parsley and thyme, experiment with a mix of rosemary and oregano for a fragrant, Italian-inspired flavor profile.
- Cheese Medley: Blend different cheese spreads like sun-dried tomato or spicy cheese for an adventurous flavor experience in each bite.
- Garlic Lovers: Double the minced garlic in the filling and topping for an extra punch of garlicky goodness that garlic enthusiasts will adore.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in some finely chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the filling for added crunch and richness that elevates every slice.
- Sweet Surprise: For a unique contrast, add a light drizzle of honey to the cheese filling for a sweet and savory treat that’s unexpected yet delightful.
- Texture Boost: Use half bread flour and half all-purpose flour to achieve a chewier texture that will take your star bread to the next level.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on hectic days! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing and letting it rise, then refrigerate it. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. The filling can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the bread and let it proof for about 30 minutes at room temperature before anointing it with egg wash and baking it. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, soft, and delicious bread with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread
Room Temperature: Store any leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread wrapped in a clean kitchen towel for up to 2 days. This keeps it soft while allowing airflow.
Fridge: For longer storage, place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the oven to revive their fluffy texture.
Freezer: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for even better protection. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To reheat, place the thawed bread in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, keeping it wrapped in foil to prevent drying out.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread
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Check Yeast Freshness: Always ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for a good rise. If it doesn’t bubble after mixing with warm water and sugar, your bread won’t rise.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother filling, let your Boursin cheese and butter come to room temperature. It spreads much easier and mixes well with the herbs.
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Mind the Baking Time: Watch your bread closely as ovens can vary. If your Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread is browning too fast, cover it loosely with foil for even baking.
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Use Tapered Knife: When slicing the dough to create star points, a sharp, tapered knife will make cleaner cuts, ensuring a beautiful shape.
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Baste Generously: Don’t be shy with the garlic butter basted towards the end of baking; it brings extra flavor and a gorgeous golden shine to your bread!
Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of cheese is best for the filling?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using Boursin Garlic and Herb Cheese for a creamy texture and robust flavor. However, if you can’t find it, Rondele or Alouette cheese spreads work beautifully as substitutes. Just be sure to choose a cheese that complements the garlic and herbs for the best taste!
How should I store leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread?
Store any leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread wrapped in a clean kitchen towel for up to 2 days at room temperature. This helps maintain its softness while allowing some airflow. For longer storage, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat briefly in the oven to restore its fluffy texture.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread?
Of course! To freeze, first wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air is inside. Then, cover it in aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, all while wrapped in foil to prevent drying out.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very important! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Always check that your active dry yeast is fresh by seeing if it froths when mixed with warm water and sugar. If it doesn’t bubble up after 5-10 minutes, it may not work in your recipe. If the dough still doesn’t rise, try placing it in a warm environment—like near a sunny window or on top of a warm appliance.
How can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re looking to make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter and use almond or soy milk instead of regular milk. For the cheese filling, there are also various plant-based cheese options available that can replicate the flavors you’re aiming for. Just be sure to check labels for any allergens related to your dietary needs!
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor, dried herbs can be a convenient alternative. Just remember to reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated; typically, you would use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. For this recipe, about 1 tablespoon of mixed dried herbs will do the trick to maintain flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Irresistible Cheesy Garlic Butter and Herb Star Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, combine warm water and sugar. Add the active dry yeast, letting it froth for 5-10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the frothy yeast mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by softened butter and milk. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. Let rise in a greased bowl for 1 hour.
- In a small bowl, mix together Boursin cheese, parsley, softened butter, thyme, and beaten egg until smooth.
- Roll out half the risen dough into an 11-inch round. Spread cheese filling evenly, sprinkle with parmesan, then place another round on top. Slice into star points.
- Allow the shaped bread to rise again for another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 400°F. Brush dough with a beaten egg and bake for 23-36 minutes until golden brown.
- About 3 minutes before done, baste with melted garlic butter for shine and flavor.
- Let the bread cool before serving. Enjoy warm with olive oil dipping bowl.