Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists

Cheesy Garlic Bread Twists

**Ingredients:**

**For the Dough:**
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

**For the Filling:**
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

**For the Topping:**
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the warm water and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
– Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
– Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. **Prepare the Filling:**
– In a small bowl, mix the softened butter and minced garlic. In another bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and dried oregano.

3. **Assemble the Twists:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick).
– Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly on top.
– Fold the dough in half lengthwise to enclose the filling.
– Cut the dough into strips (about 1 inch wide). Twist each strip several times and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

4. **Bake the Twists:**
– Brush the twists with the beaten egg for a glossy finish. Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. **Serve:**
– Serve the cheesy garlic bread twists warm. They can be enjoyed on their own or with marinara sauce for dipping.