Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread with Hot Cheesy Dip Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

When the aroma of garlic starts to fill my kitchen, it feels like an invitation to gather around the table, united by the magic of freshly baked bread. Today, I m excited to share my Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread with Hot Cheesy Dip a savory treat that never fails to captivate friends and family alike. The best part? This delightful creation is incredibly easy to whip up, making it the perfect choice for a cozy get-together or an impromptu snack attack.

Imagine pulling apart soft, pillowy bites of dough infused with fragrant herbs and oozing with gooey cheese, all accompanied by a rich, creamy dip that elevates your appetizer game. Whether you re hosting a gathering or just seeking a delicious distraction from the usual fast-food fare, this dish is sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe repertoire. Let s dive in and create a dish that warms not just the stomach, but also the heart.

Why love Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread?

Savor the Simplicity: With straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Aromatic Bliss: The scent of garlic and herbs wafting from your kitchen transforms any gathering into a special occasion.
Gooey Goodness: Each bite melds soft dough with melting cheese and rich flavor, making it dangerously shareable.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for game nights, family dinners, or simply a cozy evening at home, this recipe fits every scenario.
Customizable Delight: Swap in your favorite cheeses or add spices for a personal touch that will wow your guests!

Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread Ingredients

For the Dough

• Yeast Activates the dough, creating a light and airy texture; use instant yeast for quicker results.
• Water Hydrates the yeast and flour for proper gluten development; ensure it is warm (around 110 °F or 43 °C) to activate the yeast effectively.
• Flour Forms the structure of the dough; all-purpose flour works best, but a gluten-free flour blend can be substituted.
• Salt Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough; don t omit this crucial ingredient for taste.
• Olive Oil Adds richness and improves the bread s texture; can be replaced with melted butter if desired.

For the Stuffing

• Butter Provides flavor when combined with garlic and herbs for stuffing; use unsalted butter for better control over salt content.
• Garlic Salt Adds a robust garlic flavor; fresh minced garlic with a pinch of salt can act as a substitute if unavailable.
• Dried Herbs (e.g., Italian blend) Infuses the bread with aromatic notes; for a fresher taste, consider using fresh herbs instead.
• Perfect Pizza Cheese Melts beautifully within the dough; mozzarella or cheddar can easily substitute if needed.
• Pesto Used for brushing the dough to enhance flavor; olive oil or garlic-infused oil can be alternatives.

For the Cheesy Dip

• Cream Cheese Serves as the base for the dip, adding a luscious creaminess; ricotta can be a delightful alternative.
• Sour Cream Adds tang and creaminess to the dip; swap for Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Green Onion A finishing touch that brightens the dip; leeks can be used if you prefer.
• Parmesan Cheese Provides a rich umami flavor to the dip; Pecorino Romano is a suitable substitute.

With these Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread ingredients, you re on your way to creating an unforgettable and shareable dish that will leave everyone reaching for just one more bite!

How to Make Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread

1. Prepare Yeast Mixture: Combine warm water and instant yeast in a bowl. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes or until it becomes bubbly and frothy.
2. Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt, creating a well in the center. Gently pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
3. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead gently for about 2-3 minutes until it s smooth and elastic. Then, place it in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
4. Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, garlic salt, fresh minced garlic, and dried herbs. Chill this mixture until firm, making it easier to work with later.
5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200 °C (or 180 °C for fan-forced) to prepare for baking this delightful creation.
6. Shape Dough: Roll the dough into a large disc. Sprinkle the perfect pizza cheese evenly across the dough, then roll it into logs. Carefully cut the logs into small pieces and stuff each piece with the garlic butter mixture.
7. Arrange and Rise: Place the stuffed dough balls in a greased ramekin lined with baking paper. Cover and let them rise again for about 15 minutes, allowing them to puff up nicely.
8. Brush & Bake: Brush the top of the dough with pesto for added flavor. Bake for the first 10 minutes, then remove from the oven to pour in the cheesy dip mixture and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Continue baking until everything is golden brown and bubbling (5-10 additional minutes).
9. Prepare Cheesy Dip: In a saucepan, heat cream cheese, sour cream, green onion, and Parmesan together on medium, stirring until smooth and creamy. Pour this luscious dip into the center of the baked monkey bread for a dreamy finish!

Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread with Hot Cheesy Dip are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps and then covering the dough tightly and refrigerating it. Just before you re ready to bake, let the dough rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes. The cheesy dip can also be made beforehand; just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, simply shape the dough, stuff it with the garlic butter, and bake with the dip for a mouthwatering appetizer that s just as delicious as when freshly made.

Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread Variations

Explore exciting twists to elevate your monkey bread experience! Each variation brings a unique flavor profile that can tantalize your taste buds.

• Cheese Swap: Use gouda or fontina instead of the typical mozzarella for a richer, creamier surprise. The melt of these cheeses will take your bread to the next level!
• Vegetarian Delight: Fold in spinach or mushrooms into the stuffing for a delicious vegetarian option. This adds not only flavor but also a pop of color.
• Heat it Up: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting kick. An extra layer of heat can transform the whole dish, making it more adventurous!
• Sweet Twist: For a unique flavor profile, incorporate a touch of honey or maple syrup into the dough. This sweet hint balances beautifully with the savory elements.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a robust, aromatic experience instead of the standard Italian blend. Each herb brings its distinct character.
• Bacon Lovers: Add in some crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor burst! The saltiness complements the gooey cheese perfectly, creating an irresistible combination.
• Nutty Crust: Top your bread with chopped walnuts or pine nuts before baking for delightful crunch and nuttiness, giving textural interest to your soft, gooey bread.
• Alternative Dips: Change up your cheesy dip by incorporating spinach-artichoke flavoring. It s a fabulous twist that pairs deliciously with the bread and adds variety!

These variations invite creativity while keeping the heart of the dish intact, ensuring each mouthful is a joy to savor!

How to Store and Freeze Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread

Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked bread right away; it s best consumed within 2 hours of baking for optimal flavor and texture.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven for about 10 minutes to restore warmth.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions of the monkey bread tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy later, preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and reheat for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is gooey again.

What to Serve with Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread?

Elevate your meal experience by pairing this delightful bread with complementary flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds.

• Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes brightens the palate, balancing the rich flavors of the monkey bread.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: The warm, comforting notes of tomato soup create a lovely dip for your monkey bread, transforming it into a comforting meal.
• Charcuterie Board: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives provides variety, making for an impressive spread that accompanies the monkey bread beautifully.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp: Infuse more garlicky goodness into your meal with succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, mirroring the flavors in the bread.
• Spinach Artichoke Dip: This creamy, cheesy dip adds a nutritious layer to your appetizer table and pairs perfectly with the pull-apart bread.
• Sparkling Lemonade: A zesty, refreshing drink that cleanses the palate between bites, bringing a lightness to your savory feast.
• Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine enhances the rich flavors of the cheesy dip, making your gathering feel like a special occasion.
• Chocolate Fondue: For a unique twist, finish your meal with a sweet contrast by dipping fresh fruit into chocolate fondue, creating an enjoyable end to your evening.

Expert Tips for Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread

• Yeast Activation: Ensure the water temperature is around 110 °F (43 °C) to properly activate the yeast without killing it. Too hot can spoil your dough.
• Kneading Technique: Don t over-knead the dough. Just knead until smooth; otherwise, you may end up with dense bread instead of light, fluffy monkey bread.
• Ideal Rising Conditions: Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment, as this encourages proper gluten development and results in a beautifully airy texture.
• Baking Precision: Keep a close eye on your baking time. Overbaking can lead to dryness; aim for a golden-brown finish with bubbly, melted cheese in the center.
• Mix & Match: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in your stuffing or add-ins like cooked bacon or spinach for an exciting twist on the classic Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread.

Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread with Cheesy Dip Recipe FAQs

What kind of yeast should I use for the dough?
I recommend using instant yeast for quicker results and a lovely rise. Just dissolve it in warm water (around 110 °F or 43 °C) and let it sit until bubbly to ensure it s activated perfectly!

How do I store leftovers of the monkey bread?
If you have any delicious leftovers, store them in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. For optimum flavor and texture, try to consume it within that time frame.

Can I freeze the Garlic and Herb Monkey Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to restore that gooey cheese magic!

What should I do if my dough doesn t rise?
If your dough doesn t rise, ensure your yeast is fresh and that you used warm water at the right temperature. It s best to let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area try placing it in a turned-off oven or near a preheated oven for the best results.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend is designed for baking to ensure proper texture and rise.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Certainly! You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and opt for low-fat cream cheese. Additionally, loading it up with veggies like spinach or replacing part of the cheese with nutritional yeast can enhance nutrition while keeping the flavor intact.