Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Whisk them together to make sure the leavening is evenly distributed. This helps the bites puff slightly and gives them a light texture.
Step 3: Combine Cheese and Butter
In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cheese with melted butter and minced garlic. Stir until the cheese is evenly coated. This ensures that every bite is infused with garlic butter flavor.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the cheese-butter mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to combine until a slightly sticky dough forms. If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it holds together.
Step 5: Shape the Bites
Take small portions of dough and roll them into 1–1.5 inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each bite to allow for slight spreading during baking.
Step 6: Brush with Egg
Brush the tops of each bite with the beaten egg. This step is optional, but it gives the bites a shiny golden finish. Sprinkle with a little extra parsley if desired.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool for 2–3 minutes. Serve them warm with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping. The cheese inside should be soft and gooey, while the outside has a perfect golden crunch.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Cheese Bites
- Cheese Choice: Use mozzarella for stretchiness and cheddar for sharper flavor. Mixing them adds a delicious complexity.
- Garlic Boost: For more garlic flavor, you can sauté the minced garlic in butter for 1–2 minutes before mixing with cheese.
- Crispier Bites: Bake for an extra 2 minutes if you want crunchier edges, but don’t overdo it or the cheese can dry out.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to revive the crispiness.
These Baked Garlic Butter Cheese Bites are more than just a snack—they’re a crowd-pleaser, a comfort food, and a cheesy masterpiece all rolled into one. The combination of buttery garlic flavor and molten cheese inside a golden crust is absolutely addictive. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them again and again.
If you want, I can also create a foolproof shortcut version that uses ready-made dough to make them even quicker without losing any flavor. Do you want me to do that?
