Blooming Bread

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Background

Blooming bread became popular as a sharing appetizer, inspired by the idea of pull-apart breads served at casual gatherings and restaurants. The name comes from how the loaf “blooms” open while baking, revealing gooey cheese and flavored butter inside.
This version keeps things simple and accessible—using everyday bread, cheese slices, and garlic butter—perfect for home cooks who want big impact with minimal effort.

Blooming Bread

Preparation 

  • Prep: 10 minutes

  • Baking: 18–22 minutes

  • Serves: 6–8 people

Ingredients

  • 1 bread loaf (round or oval, soft crust preferred)

Garlic Herb Butter

  • 4 tbsp butter, softened

  • 5–6 garlic cloves, finely chopped or grated

  • 1 tsp mixed dried herbs (oregano / Italian seasoning)

  • ½ tsp chilli flakes (optional)

  • A pinch of salt

Filling

  • 6–8 cheese slices, torn or cut into small squares

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh coriander, spring onion, parsley, finely chopped

 

 Equipment Needed

  • Sharp bread knife

  • Mixing bowl

  • Spoon or spatula

  • Aluminium foil

  • Baking tray

  • Oven

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.

  2. Place the loaf on a cutting board.

  3. Make deep vertical cuts across the loaf.

  4. Turn the loaf and cut crosswise to form a grid.

    •  Do not cut all the way through—the base should remain intact.

Step 2: Make Garlic Herb Butter

In a bowl, mix together:

  • Softened butter

  • Garlic

  • Dried herbs

  • Chilli flakes

  • Salt

Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

Step 3: Assemble

  1. Gently open the cuts using your fingers.

  2. Spread garlic butter inside each gap.

  3. Insert cheese pieces evenly throughout.

  4. Brush the remaining garlic butter generously over the top.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Wrap the loaf loosely in aluminium foil.

  2. Bake for 12–15 minutes until cheese melts.

  3. Open the foil and bake uncovered for 5–7 minutes until:

    • Top is golden

    • Cheese is bubbly and lightly crisp

 

 Pro Tips

  • If the loaf feels dry, lightly brush with milk before stuffing.

  • Always wrap loosely—tight foil traps steam and softens the crust.

  • For extra colour, grill/broil for 1–2 minutes at the end