Ingredients
For the Bread Bowl and Filling
- 1 cob loaf
- 1 bulb garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 brown onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 9 oz cream cheese, softened
- 10 oz sour cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1/2 cup chives, finely sliced, plus extra to serve
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the cob loaf: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the top off the cob loaf and hollow out the center, removing the soft bread to create a bowl. Keep the removed bread aside for another use or serving.
- Caramelize the onions: Peel and finely slice the brown onions. Peel and crush the garlic cloves from the bulb. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add the garlic and onions, and cook gently until softened and golden, about 15-20 minutes. Stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized. Remove from heat and discard the garlic bulb if whole cloves were used.
- Mix the dip base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated mozzarella, grated parmesan, and the finely sliced chives. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Combine onions with dip: Fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill the bread bowl: Spoon the onion and cheese dip mixture into the hollowed cob loaf, pressing it down gently to fill completely. Sprinkle extra mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake the dip: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled cob loaf on a baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese topping is melted and bubbly with a light golden crust.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle extra finely sliced chives on top, and serve warm with the cut-off cob bread pieces or crackers for dipping.
Notes
- The cob loaf acts as both a vessel and a bread to dip, so pick a fresh crusty loaf.
- You can prepare caramelized onions ahead of time and refrigerate to save time on the day.
- For a stronger onion flavor, use red onions or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- This dip is best served warm; reheat gently if needed before serving.
- If preferred, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian