Garlic Confit Toast Crispy

Rich velvety garlic confit transforms simple toasted bread into a dish that feels restaurant-worthy yet perfectly doable at home The garlic becomes so mellow and spreadable you might find yourself making a double batch just to have leftovers for easy snacks or to jazz up other dishes

My first time making garlic confit on a chilly afternoon it filled my kitchen with the most comforting aroma Since then serving it on hot toast has become my go to for impressing friends with practically zero stress

Ingredients

• Garlic cloves: These are the star Slow-cooking brings out their sweetness and a spreadable buttery texture Look for heads with tight skins and no green sprouts for best flavor
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Helps infuse both the garlic and itself with deep flavor Use the freshest oil you can for the richest taste
• Fresh thyme: Adds herbal notes Select bright green sprigs with no woody or dried parts
• Bay leaf: Lends a subtle earthiness Choose whole green leaves if possible
• Kosher salt: Essential for pulling flavors out Choose finer grains for even mixing
• Rustic baguette or country loaf: The crusty base Should feel heavy for its size with a chewy crumb
• Flaky sea salt: For finishing this adds irresistible crunch Maldon or something similar works beautifully
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right bite Use coarse ground for texture
• Chopped fresh parsley: Optional but flashes of green keep things fresh and pretty

Instructions

Prep Garlic and Infuse Oil:

Place peeled garlic cloves gently into a small oven-safe saucepan or baking dish Pour in the olive oil until cloves are well submerged Add the thyme sprigs bay leaf and salt making sure every clove is nestled with the herbs and oil

Slow Roast for Silkiness:

Cover the dish tightly with foil or a snug lid Put in a preheated oven at 250 degrees F Let it bake undisturbed for 45 minutes The garlic should become completely soft golden and fragrant but never browned This gentle cook unlocks all its mild sweet notes

Toast the Bread:

While the garlic is roasting slice your baguette or country loaf into thick slabs Lay the bread on a sheet pan and toast under a broiler or in a toaster until golden and shatteringly crisp The key is a crunchy exterior but still a bit of chew inside

Prepare the Garlic Confit for Serving:

Once roasted carefully discard the thyme and bay leaf Use a slotted spoon to lift out golden garlic cloves Place a few on each slab of toasted bread

Assemble and Season:

Gently mash the garlic over the hot toast using the back of a spoon Drizzle some of the infused oil over each piece Sprinkle with flaky sea salt generous black pepper and parsley if you want a fresh finish Serve immediately while warm and fragrant

Save to Pinterest

The subtle sweetness of confit garlic is my absolute favorite building block You never forget the first time you spread that golden creamy clove onto a still warm bite of bread and tasted both comfort and a little luxury

Storage Tips

Store leftover garlic confit completely submerged in oil in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator It will keep up to two weeks Always use a clean utensil to remove garlic or oil which helps prevent spoilage You can use the leftover oil for dressings drizzling or tossing with roasted vegetables If you make a big batch freeze extra confit garlic cloves in a single layer then transfer to a sealed bag for up to three months Just thaw in the fridge and use as needed

Ingredient Substitutions

Try swapping in rosemary or oregano if thyme is not on hand for an earthier or mintier twist For a gluten free option grab your favorite sturdy gluten free loaf The garlic and oil work with any bread that holds up to spreading You can use shallots or even peeled pearl onions in addition to garlic for variety and a milder taste

Serving Suggestions

Top the garlic toast with slices of juicy tomato or roasted peppers for even more color Perfect as a beginning to a meal served with soft cheeses and olives or with eggs for a cozy brunch Chop confit garlic into mashed potatoes or swirl into creamy hummus for a subtle boost

Save to Pinterest

Enjoy this classic French-inspired treat with ease and let every bite remind you of comfort and effortless luxury Try it once and you will come back to it again and again

Questions & Answers About the Recipe

→ How do I store leftover garlic confit?

Submerge garlic cloves fully in oil and refrigerate for up to two weeks in an airtight container.

→ Can I use different bread types?

Yes, rustic baguette, country loaf, or gluten-free breads all work well—choose your favorite.

→ What flavors can I add to the oil?

Try a pinch of chili flakes or lemon zest for extra depth and brightness in the infused oil.

→ Is this suitable for a cheese board?

Absolutely! Garlic confit toast pairs beautifully with cheeses and salads for a balanced spread.

→ Can this appetizer be made ahead?

Prepare confit in advance and toast bread when ready to serve for optimal flavor and texture.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Simply swap the bread for a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary needs.