There’s something irresistibly comforting about the aroma of melted cheese and garlic wafting through the kitchen. One evening, craving a snack that was both easy and indulgent, I whipped up these Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists—and they instantly became my go-to for anytime cravings. Crispy on the outside, gooey and flavorful inside, these twists are perfect for sharing or sneaking bites when no one’s watching. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or need a crowd-pleaser for your next get-together, they’re simple to make but taste like you spent hours perfecting them. Let me show you how to bring this cozy, delicious treat to life in your own kitchen!
Why choose Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists?
Irresistible flavor: Gooey cheese meets savory garlic in every bite. Simplicity: Minimal ingredients and quick prep make these a breeze. Perfect snack: Crispy outside, soft inside—a texture lovers dream. Versatile treat: Great for parties, dinners, or cozy solo indulgence. Crowd-pleaser: They vanish fast, so be ready to make seconds!
Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – Use fresh flour for the softest, most tender twists.
• Active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise to a fluffy perfection.
• Warm water – Activates the yeast and keeps the dough moist.
• Sugar – Feeds the yeast to give the dough a light, airy texture.
• Salt – Balances flavor and enhances the dough’s taste.
• Olive oil – Adds richness and a slight crisp to the crust.
For the Garlic Butter
• Unsalted butter – Melted for easy spreading and a rich, creamy base.
• Fresh garlic – Finely minced to infuse every twist with bold flavor.
• Parsley – Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to brighten the garlic butter.
• Salt – Enhances the garlic’s natural pungency and depth.
For the Cheese Filling
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully to create gooey, stringy centers.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty sharpness that complements garlic perfectly.
Make sure to use quality ingredients to truly bring these Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists to life!
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists
- Activate Yeast: Stir warm water (about 110°F), sugar, and yeast in a large bowl; let sit 8–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is alive and imparts airy structure.
- Make Dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture; stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Coat a clean bowl with oil, place dough inside, and cover. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and aromatic to brush on the dough.
- Shape Dough: Roll risen dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the garlic butter evenly, ensuring every inch is deliciously coated.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan over the buttered dough, leaving a ½-inch border. This cheese blend creates gooey, stringy centers.
- Cut Strips: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 12–16 even strips, about 1 inch wide each, ensuring uniform size so they bake evenly and twist nicely.
- Twist Strips: Grab both ends of each strip, twist gently two or three times, then place twists on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Second Rest: Cover the twists with a clean towel and let them rest 15 minutes, allowing them to puff up slightly before baking.
- Bake Twists: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake the twists for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown, cheese is bubbling, and edges crisp up to a deep golden hue.
Optional: Serve warm with marinara dipping sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists Variations
Feel free to sprinkle in your creativity and explore these delightful twists on a classic!
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Herbed Twist: Add fresh or dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the garlic butter for an aromatic touch. This simple addition elevates the flavor beautifully, making every bite a herb-infused delight.
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Cheese Combinations: Swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for your favorite cheese. Try sharp cheddar or a creamy brie for a unique melt and flavor profile that surprises the palate.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or add finely chopped jalapeños to the garlic butter for a spicy version. This twist brings heat that beautifully contrasts with the cheesiness.
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Whole Wheat Dough: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrients. Your twists will be heartier, but still deliciously soft inside!
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Sweet Twist: For a fun dessert version, use cinnamon sugar instead of garlic and cheese. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle generously for a sweet treat that’s perfect with coffee or tea.
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Stuffed Surprise: Before twisting, add cooked, chopped spinach mixed with feta cheese to the cheese filling for a Mediterranean flair. Each bite will be a savory surprise!
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Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: After baking, drizzle a balsamic reduction on the twists for a tangy-sweet contrast that complements the savory garlic and cheese perfectly.
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Vegan Option: Replace the butter with vegan margarine and use vegan cheese alternatives. These cheesy twists can be enjoyed by everyone, without missing out on flavor.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists
- Use room-temperature ingredients: Let your water and butter sit out briefly to help activate the yeast evenly and make spreading the garlic butter smoother.
- Don’t skip the yeast proofing: Waiting for the yeast to foam ensures your dough will rise fluffy, avoiding dense, heavy twists.
- Even strips matter: Cut dough strips uniformly about 1 inch wide so twists bake evenly and have that perfect crispy outside and gooey inside.
- Twist gently: Avoid over-twisting which can tear dough or squeeze out cheese, keeping each twist intact and melty.
- Brush generously: Coat the dough with garlic butter right before adding cheese for maximum flavor in each bite of your Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists.
- Serve warm: These twists are best enjoyed fresh from the oven while cheese is melty and dough is irresistibly soft.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists fresh out of the oven for the best texture. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover twists in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the twists in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen twists in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is gooey again.
What to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists?
Nothing quite matches the pleasure of indulging in warm, cheesy delights alongside a perfectly curated meal.
- Marinara Sauce: Serve alongside for a tangy twist that complements the rich flavors, perfect for dipping those gooey bites.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons bring brightness and balance to the cheesy richness, making each bite delightful.
- Tomato Basil Soup: The warm, herbaceous soup creates a comforting pairing that allows the garlic and cheese to shine while being perfectly dunkable.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies add depth and a satisfying crunch, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: For an indulgent treat, pairing the twists with buttery, succulent shrimp creates an aromatic feast that screams comfort.
- Cheesy Pasta Bake: For double the indulgence, serve with a pasta dish that mirrors the cheesy goodness, making for a decadent dinner spread.
- Wine: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, can brighten the savory notes, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a rich, silky dessert to contrast the savory flavors of your cheesy garlic breads; bliss awaits!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and shape the twists up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh. To maintain their delicious texture and prevent them from becoming soggy, ensure the garlic butter is applied just before baking. When you’re ready to bake, allow the twists to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, preheat your oven, and then pop them in for 15-18 minutes until golden and bubbly. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort after a busy day!
Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my yeast is still good for making the dough?
Fresh yeast should be stored in a cool place and used by the expiration date. When activated in warm water with sugar, it should foam and bubble within 8–10 minutes. If it doesn’t, it’s best to start with fresh yeast for perfectly airy twists.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists?
I recommend placing cooled twists in an airtight container or resealable bag and refrigerating. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, warming them briefly in the oven restores their crispy outside and gooey inside beautifully.
Can I freeze the twists to enjoy later?
Absolutely! Freeze them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer the cooled twists into a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw completely and reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and warm.
Why did my twists turn out dense instead of light and fluffy?
This usually happens if the yeast wasn’t activated properly or the dough didn’t rise long enough. Make sure the yeast foams before mixing dough and allow it to double in size during the first rise. Kneading well also builds that perfect gluten structure for tender, airy twists.
Are these Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists safe for pets?
While these are delicious treats for us, the ingredients—especially garlic and cheese—can be harmful to pets. Avoid sharing these twists with your furry friends and stick to pet-safe snacks to keep them happy and healthy.
Irresistible Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists You Can’t Stop Eating
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Stir warm water (about 110°F), sugar, and yeast in a large bowl; let sit 8–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture; stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead on a lightly floured surface 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Coat a clean bowl with oil, place dough inside, and cover. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and aromatic.
- Roll risen dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the garlic butter evenly.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the buttered dough, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Slice the dough into 12–16 even strips, about 1 inch wide each.
- Grab both ends of each strip, twist gently two or three times, then place twists on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover the twists with a clean towel and let them rest 15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and bake the twists for 15–18 minutes, until golden brown.
