Buttered Cuban Bread Recipe
Make Buttered Cuban Bread Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Cuban Bread (store-bought or homemade)
Garlic-Butter Spread
Finishing (optional)
Method
Cuban Bread (store-bought or homemade)
- 1
Preheat and prepare loaf
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If your loaf is chilled, bring it to room temperature for 20–30 minutes so the butter spreads more evenly. Using a serrated knife, slice the loaf lengthwise through the middle to create a top and bottom half, or make 1-inch diagonal cuts across the top if you prefer pull-apart pieces. Arrange the halves cut-side up on a sheet pan lined with parchment or foil.
Garlic-Butter Spread
- 2
Make garlic butter
In a medium bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lime juice (if using), kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Use a fork or small spatula to mash and mix until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt or lime if needed.
- 3
Spread butter on loaf
Using a small offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread an even layer of the garlic-butter mixture over the cut surfaces of the loaf. If you made diagonal cuts across the top, push some butter into the cuts so each piece will be flavored. Reserve any leftover butter for additional spreading after baking or for another use.
Baking and Finishing
- 4
Bake the bread
Place the prepared loaf on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake 10–14 minutes for a warmed-through, softly crisped result, or 14–18 minutes for a more deeply golden, crisp crust. If you want an extra-browned top, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
- 5
Add cheese and final bake (optional)
If using grated Parmesan or Manchego, sprinkle it over the buttered surfaces in the last 3–5 minutes of baking so it melts and forms a light crust. Return to the oven just until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- 6