Cheesy Corn & Herb Pull-Apart Bread

Ingredients

For the High-Protein Dough Base:

• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup (plus 2 tablespoons for dusting and kneading)
• Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt: 3/4 cup (provides moisture and a significant protein boost)
• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Whey Protein Isolate (Unflavored or Vanilla, unsweetened): 2 tablespoons (approx. 15g, for extra protein fortification)

For the Filling & Topping:

• Sweet Corn Kernels: 1/2 cup (fresh, thawed frozen, or well-drained canned corn)
• Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese: 3/4 cup, freshly shredded (divided)
• Cheddar Cheese: 1/4 cup, finely shredded (for sharp flavor contrast)
• Fresh Chives: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
• Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon, minced
• Melted Light Butter or Ghee: 1 tablespoon (for brushing the top)
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Optional Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or finely minced jalapeños for heat.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer and Workspace

1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes so it is hot and ready.
2. Cut a piece of perforated parchment paper to fit snugly inside your air fryer basket, ensuring proper airflow around the edges.
3. Lightly dust a clean countertop or cutting board with a tablespoon of flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the High-Protein Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour , unflavored whey protein isolate , baking powder , salt , and garlic powder .
2. Add the plain non-fat Greek yogurt directly into the dry mixture.
3. Using a spatula or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough begins to form. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in your remaining flour one tablespoon at a time until it comes together into a cohesive, workable ball.

Step 3: Knead and Shape the Dough

1. Transfer the dough onto your floured surface. Knead gently for about 1 to 2 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Roll or press the dough out into a rough rectangle, approximately 1/2-inch thick.
3. Scatter half of the sweet corn , half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend , and half of the fresh herbs evenly across the surface of the dough.
4. Press the toppings gently into the dough so they adhere.

Step 4: Assemble the Pull-Apart Layers

1. Using a sharp knife or a bench scraper, cut the dough rectangle into roughly 6 to 8 equal strips or squares.
2. Stack the pieces on top of one another to create a layered stack packed with corn and cheese.
3. Cut the stacked loaf crosswise into smaller chunks or individual pull-apart portions, then arrange them snugly inside your prepared air fryer basket or a small, air fryer-safe baking pan.
4. Sprinkle the remaining corn, remaining cheeses, and herbs over the top of the assembled bread.

Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

1. Carefully place the basket or baking pan into your preheated air fryer.
2. Cook at 360°F (180°C) for 18 to 22 minutes . Check the bread around the 15-minute mark; if the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent a small piece of aluminum foil over it for the remaining cooking time.
3. The bread is done when the crust is golden brown, the internal dough is cooked through (no longer gummy), and the cheese is bubbling and completely melted.

Step 6: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

1. Remove the basket from the air fryer and let the bread rest for 3 to 5 minutes so the melted cheese can set slightly.
2. Brush the top lightly with melted light butter and sprinkle with an extra pinch of fresh chives.
3. Pull apart the warm, gooey sections and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, marinara, or enjoy on its own!

Nutrition

Calories: ~245 kcal · Protein: ~18.5 g · Fat: ~7.5 g · Carbohydrates: ~28.0 g Dietary · Saturated Fat: ~4.2 g · Fiber: ~2.1 g · Sugar: ~3.2 g · Sodium: ~380 mg