birthday loaf with a garlic butter candle

Ingredients:

For the Loaf (Parmesan & Italian Herb):

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 2¼ tsp instant yeast

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 cup warm water (110°F)

Optional additions:

• Minced sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic

For the Garlic Butter Candle:

🕯 Yes, it’s edible and meltable!

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

• 1–2 garlic cloves, minced

• Pinch of salt

• Chopped parsley (optional)

• A small piece of spaghetti (for the “wick” – lightable for fun, but burns fast)

• Small mold (like a silicone shot mold or wrapped parchment paper)

🍞 Instructions:

1. Make the Loaf

1. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 mins until foamy.

2. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan.

3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix and knead 8–10 minutes.

4. Cover and let rise until doubled (~1 hour).

5. Shape into a round loaf (or use a cake pan for the “birthday cake” look).

6. Let rise again 30–40 minutes.

7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden and hollow-sounding.

8. Cool slightly before adding the candle.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Candle

1. Mix softened butter with garlic, salt, and parsley.

2. Fill a mold with the butter mix and insert a dried spaghetti strand halfway in as a wick.

3. Chill in the fridge until firm.

4. Pop out and “plant” it in the center of your loaf like a candle.

🕯 To Serve:

Light the spaghetti wick (it’ll burn for a moment), then let the garlic butter slowly melt into the warm loaf. Cut and serve immediately. It’s a dramatic, buttery, herby celebration.