Garlic and Mozzarella Cheese-Stuffed Bread
Soft, flavorful bread with a garlic-parsley butter filling and melted mozzarella center
Yield
1 loaf or 8–10 rolls
Oven Temperature
180°C (350°F)
Ingredients
Dough
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70 ml warm water
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70 ml warm milk
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1 teaspoon dry yeast
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1 teaspoon sugar
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250 g all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
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20 ml vegetable oil or melted butter
Filling
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100 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Topping
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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1 teaspoon poppy seeds
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, sugar, and dry yeast.
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Stir gently and allow to stand for 5–10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.
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Add the flour, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft, cohesive dough forms.
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Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling
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In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
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Mix until a smooth, spreadable paste forms.
3. Shape and Fill
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Punch down the risen dough to release air.
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Roll the dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
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Spread the garlic-parsley butter evenly over the dough.
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Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the butter layer.
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Roll the dough tightly from one edge into a log.
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Optional shaping:
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Cut the log into thick slices for individual rolls, or
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Slice the log lengthwise, twist the two strands together, and form a braided loaf.
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4. Final Rise and Bake
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Place the shaped loaf or rolls in a greased loaf pan or baking tray.
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Cover and allow to rise for 20 minutes in a warm place.
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Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
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Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg and sprinkle poppy seeds evenly.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and the mozzarella inside is fully melted.
5. Cooling and Serving
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Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
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Serve warm. This bread pairs well with soups, salads, or as a savory snack on its own.
Storage
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Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days
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Refrigerate for longer storage; reheat in a preheated oven to restore freshness