Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base

In a large bowl, combine 100 ml lukewarm milk, 100 ml lukewarm water, 1 1/4 tsp yeast, 1 tsp sugar, 2 tbsp oil, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp butter. Mix these ingredients well until combined.

Step 2: Add Flour and Knead

Add 350g of plain flour to the wet mixture. Mix well with a spatula until a rough dough forms, then knead the dough by hand for 5 minutes until it becomes soft and smooth.

Step 3: First Rise (Proofing)

Lightly grease the bowl with some oil, place the soft dough in it, and press it down gently. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Tray and Dough

After the first rise (around 30 minutes in the video), gently press down on the dough to release the air. Lightly grease an 8-inch baking tray with oil and spread the dough uniformly across the bottom of the tray.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the baking tray with a clean towel and let the dough rest for another 10 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Garlic Butter Topping

While the dough rests, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine 30g butter, a pinch of salt, 2 tsp fresh chopped parsley, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp dried parsley. Mix all ingredients well until they form a uniform paste.

Step 7: Apply Topping and Cheese

After the second rest, spread the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough in the baking tray. Then, sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the butter mixture.

Step 8: Create Indentations

Using your fingers or a spatula, gently press down into the dough to create several indentations or holes across the surface. This helps the topping seep into the bread and creates a classic focaccia-like texture.

Step 9: Bake the Garlic Bread

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the garlic bread for 20 to 30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown on top and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the garlic bread from the oven. Let it cool slightly before cutting it into pieces. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious aroma and soft texture.

• Ensure milk and water are lukewarm (around 105-115°F or 40-46°C) to activate the yeast properly.

• Do not over-knead the dough; it should be soft and elastic.

• For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of red chili flakes to the garlic butter mixture.

• Add finely chopped fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.

• Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or parmesan, or a mix of cheeses.

• Include other herbs like oregano or basil in the butter mixture.