Korean Garlic Cheese Bread

Ohhh yes — let’s talk about Korean Garlic Cheese Bread, aka the ultimate sweet-savory snack that’ll make your kitchen smell like absolute heaven. Imagine a golden, fluffy bun, sliced like a blooming flower, stuffed with luscious cream cheese, then soaked in a rich, buttery garlic custard before being baked to perfection. The outside is crisp and garlicky, the inside is warm and creamy, and trust me — it’s love at first bite. This one’s a serious game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Korean Garlic Cheese Bread

This isn’t your average garlic bread. It’s on another level — here’s why:

Sweet + Savory Bliss: The dreamy combo of garlicky butter and slightly sweet cream cheese hits every craving.

Bakery-Style at Home: This trendy Korean street food is totally do-able in your own kitchen.

Textural Perfection: Crispy edges, soft bread, gooey cheese… yeah, it’s the trifecta.

Easy to Customize: Add herbs, more cheese, or go extra garlicky — it’s all up to you.

Impressively Delicious: It looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. Great for brunches, parties, or just spoiling yourself.

Ingredients in Korean Garlic Cheese Bread

Let’s dive into the key players that make this bread so unforgettable:

Soft Dinner Rolls or Brioche Buns: The fluffier, the better. You want them pillowy inside with enough structure to hold the filling.

Cream Cheese: Softened and slightly sweetened to create that creamy center.

Garlic: Loads of it. Fresh minced garlic brings bold flavor.

Butter: The base of that luscious garlic custard soak.

Eggs: Help bind the custard mixture and give a glossy finish.

Milk or Cream: Adds richness to the garlic custard.

Sugar: Just a touch, balancing the savory with a hint of sweetness.

Parsley or Chives (optional): For that fresh, herby finish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make your kitchen smell like a bakery in Seoul? Let’s get started:

Prep the Buns

Using a serrated knife, carefully slice each bun into six wedges, like you’re cutting a pizza, but don’t cut all the way through. You want them to stay connected at the base.

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Mix softened cream cheese with a little sugar until smooth. Spoon or pipe the mixture between the wedges of each bun, stuffing generously.

Prepare the Garlic Custard

In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, eggs, milk or cream, a touch of sugar, and chopped parsley or chives if using.

Dip & Soak

Gently dip each stuffed bun into the garlic mixture, making sure it’s fully coated — especially between the slices.

Bake to Perfection

Place buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes, until the tops are golden and the cheese is warm and melty.

Serve

Best served warm — and don’t be shy about going in for seconds!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: Approx. 300–350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes

How to Serve Korean Garlic Cheese Bread

This beautiful bread can totally steal the show on its own, but here are a few fun ways to serve it:

• Brunch Boards: Serve alongside eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee.
• Party Appetizer: Cut into quarters for bite-sized, cheesy goodness.
• As a Side Dish: Pairs perfectly with creamy soups or salads.
• Late-Night Snack: Warm one up and live your best life.
• Garnish: Add extra chopped herbs or even a sprinkle of grated parmesan before serving.

Additional Tips

• Use room temperature cream cheese: Makes it way easier to mix and pipe.
• Don’t skimp on the garlic: That bold flavor is what makes this dish sing.
• Use quality bread: A good soft roll or brioche makes a big difference.
• Pipe carefully: A piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner cut works best for neat stuffing.
• Eat fresh: They’re best enjoyed warm right out of the oven — but leftovers can be reheated!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A1: Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake fresh when ready to serve.

Q2: Can I use store-bought buns?
A2: Absolutely — soft brioche buns or milk bread work great.

Q3: Can I freeze them?
A3: Freeze before baking. When ready, bake straight from frozen at 350°F until golden and warmed through.

Q4: Can I make it spicier?
A4: Add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the custard for a kick.

Q5: Is it very sweet?
A5: No, just lightly sweetened to balance the savory garlic and cheese.

Q6: Can I make it vegetarian?
A6: It already is! Just double-check your ingredients for any hidden additives.

Q7: Can I substitute the cream cheese?
A7: Mascarpone or ricotta works in a pinch, but the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

Q8: How do I keep leftovers?
A8: Store in the fridge and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Q9: Can I add more cheese?
A9: Of course! A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella inside or on top is heavenly.

Q10: What’s the best way to reheat them?
A10: Reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy on the outside.

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Conclusion

Korean Garlic Cheese Bread is one of those magical recipes that hits every note — crispy, creamy, garlicky, and just a little bit sweet. Whether you’re making it for brunch, a party, or just because you deserve something amazing today, this dish is pure comfort with a delicious twist. So grab those buns and get baking — because once you try this, there’s no going back.

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