ngredients

For the Bread

  • 4 large round buns (pav or dinner rolls, slightly crusty)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or coriander, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp chaat masala (optional, for desi flavor)
  • 1/4 tsp red chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)

For the Cream Cheese Filling

  • 200g cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp green chutney (coriander-mint chutney, adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp heavy cream or milk (to soften filling)
  • 1/2 tsp chaat masala
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 small green chili, finely chopped (optional, for heat)

For the Green Chutney (if making fresh)

  • 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1-2 green chilies
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • 2-3 tbsp water (to blend)

Equipment

  • Oven or air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Blender (for chutney, if making fresh)
  • Pastry brush
  • Piping bag or spoon (for filling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Green Chutney (if making fresh)

  1. In a blender, combine coriander, mint, green chilies, garlic, cumin seeds, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. Add water gradually and blend into a smooth paste. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with green chutney, heavy cream, chaat masala, black pepper, and green chili (if using).
  2. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a piping bag or keep ready with a spoon for filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter

  1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley or coriander, chaat masala, and red chili powder (if using).
  2. Stir well and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Buns

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) or air fryer to 160°C (320°F).
  2. Slice each bun into 6-8 wedges, cutting almost to the bottom but keeping the base intact (like a flower shape).
  3. Gently pull apart the wedges to create space for the filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Bread

  1. Brush the garlic butter generously between the wedges and over the top of each bun.
  2. Pipe or spoon the cream cheese filling into the gaps between the wedges, ensuring even distribution.
  3. Place the buns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or air fryer for 8-10 minutes, until the bread is golden and crispy on the outside.
  2. Optionally, brush with extra garlic butter after baking for added flavor.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Serve hot, garnished with extra coriander or a sprinkle of chaat masala.
  2. Pair with extra green chutney or a tangy tamarind chutney for dipping.

Tips

  • Adjust the green chutney and chili to your spice preference.
  • For a cheesier version, sprinkle mozzarella or cheddar on top before baking.
  • Use store-bought green chutney to save time.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat before serving.

Serving Size

  • Serves: 4
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Enjoy this desi-fusion take on Korean cream cheese garlic bread, perfect for sharing!