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Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Emily

Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread

This Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread is soft, golden, and bursting with cheesy, herby flavor. Perfect as a side for pasta, soups, or enjoyed on its own, it’s braided with gooey mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, and fresh herbs for an irresistible homemade loaf.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 10 slices
Cuisine: European-Inspired
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced or roasted
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 egg beaten, for egg wash
  • extra herbs or shredded cheese, for garnish

Equipment

  • stand mixer with dough hook
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin
  • loaf pan or baking sheet
  • Pastry brush
  • Wire rack

Method
 

  1. Combine warm milk and sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a stand mixer bowl, mix flour and salt. Add egg, softened butter, and yeast mixture. Mix and knead for 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled.
  4. Punch down dough and roll it out into a ¼-inch thick rectangle on a floured surface.
  5. Brush with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, herbs, and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Roll tightly into a log from the long side. Slice lengthwise, then twist the two halves with the filling facing up.
  7. Shape into a swirl or braid. Place in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
  8. Cover and proof for 30–40 minutes.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush top with egg wash and sprinkle optional toppings.
  10. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  11. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

Try roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor. Mix in red pepper flakes for heat or swap herbs based on seasonality. Can be baked in a loaf pan for a tall bread or shaped free-form for a rustic presentation. Best served warm!