Cobb Loaf

Preparation : Preheat oven to moderately hot (180c). Cut the top off the bread loaf to make a "lid" and scoop out the bread inside to form a "casserole dish". Leave 3/4 inch thick base and thick enough sides to retain the loaf shape. Cut the scooped out bread into finger size dipping pieces and spread onto a baking tray. Bake until golden and crispy. Beat the cream cheese and cream with beaters or in processor until smooth, then add remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour mixture into hollowed bread loaf, place "lid" on and bake for 40 minutes, or until dip is heated through. Serve loaf with dipping fingers. If more fingers are required than what is scooped out, cut some slices of regular bread up and bake as per recipe.