5 Best Cob Loaf Recipes You Must Try

Cob loaf, an iconic Australian party food, has the ability to draw friends and family together for its gooey, cheesy goodness. While many know the traditional recipe, there are numerous variations that can elevate your next gathering from mundane to memorable. Here's a look at 5 of the best cob loaf recipes you must try:

Classic Cob Loaf

Let’s start with the timeless classic:

• 1 large round loaf of bread (preferably sourdough)
• 1 cup of cream cheese
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar works best)
• 3 finely chopped bacon rashers
• 1 small can of drained corn kernels
• 2 spring onions, finely chopped
• 1 clove of garlic, minced

Method:

1. Cut the top off the loaf and hollow out the inside, leaving a shell. Cube the bread that was removed for dipping.
2. Mix all the filling ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
3. Fill the hollowed bread with the cheese mixture, then replace the top.
4. Wrap the loaf in foil and bake at 180°C for 20-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Spinach and Artichoke Cob Loaf

For a healthier twist with a gourmet touch:

• 1 large round bread loaf
• 200g spinach, thawed and well drained
• 1 can artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Method:

1. Hollow out the loaf as before. Save the bread for dipping.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, cook garlic until aromatic.
3. Add spinach and artichokes, cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in cream cheese, yogurt, and mozzarella. Mix until creamy.
5. Fill the bread with the mixture, replace the top, and bake at 180°C for 25-30 minutes.

Curry Crab Cob Loaf

For a spicier, unique treat:

• 1 loaf of round bread
• 200g crab meat
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions

Method:

1. Prepare the bread as with the previous recipes.
2. Mix crab, mayonnaise, sour cream, curry powder, cheese, bell pepper, and onions.
3. Fill the bread with this mixture and bake at 180°C for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Gourmet Sundried Tomato and Basil Cob Loaf

If you're looking to impress with a Mediterranean flair:

• 1 large bread loaf
• 200g cream cheese
• 1 cup ricotta
• 1 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Olive oil for brushing

Method:

1. Hollow out the bread as before. Brush the inside with olive oil.
2. Mix all filling ingredients in a bowl until combined.
3. Fill the bread and bake at 180°C for 25 minutes.

Vegan Cheesy Potato and Leek Cob Loaf

For those who avoid dairy or meat:

• 1 large round bread loaf (ensure it's vegan)
• 3 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 2 leeks, washed and sliced
• 1 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 cup almond milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Vegan butter or olive oil for brushing

Method:

1. Hollow the loaf and brush with vegan butter or oil.
2. In a skillet, cook leeks and garlic until soft. Mix with mashed potatoes, nutritional yeast, and almond milk to create a thick mixture.
3. Fill the bread and bake at 180°C for 30 minutes or until the top is golden.

Summary: From traditional to exotic, these cob loaf recipes offer something for every palate, turning a simple bread into a gastronomic delight. Whether it's the comfort of the classic cheese or the innovation of a vegan spin, these recipes ensure your next party food will be a hit, leaving guests craving for more.

Can I prepare the cob loaf filling in advance?

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Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator, tightly covered. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before filling the loaf.

What can I do with the leftover bread from the cob loaf?

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The bread that was hollowed out can be used for dipping into the melted cheese mixture or can be turned into croutons, breadcrumbs, or even be used for stuffing in other recipes.

Can I use different types of bread?

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While sourdough is traditional, you can experiment with rye or whole grain loaves. Ensure the bread has a good structure to hold the filling without getting too soggy.