If you’re craving a bread that combines the irresistible flavors of garlic, fresh herbs, and gooey cheese all beautifully swirled into a soft, golden loaf, then this Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of bread that makes your kitchen smell heavenly and your taste buds sing, perfect as a centerpiece for any meal or just to enjoy on its own. With its tender crumb and rich, savory filling, this bread turns simple ingredients into pure magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a crucial role in making this bread moist, flavorful, and delightfully textured. From the warm milk that activates the yeast to the fresh herbs that brighten the garlic’s punch, every component is chosen to bring the perfect balance to this recipe.
- 1 cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and creates a soft dough base.
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast: The leavening agent that makes the bread rise beautifully.
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Provide richness and help with dough structure.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds tenderness and flavor to the dough.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Gives the dough its body and texture.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances flavors and strengthens gluten development.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for filling): The base of the savory garlic herb filling.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced: Offers that bold aromatic punch we all crave.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or rosemary): Bring freshness and depth to the filling.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy pockets inside the bread.
- 1 large egg (for egg wash): Gives a shiny, golden crust.
- 1 tbsp water (for egg wash): Helps create that perfect egg wash consistency.
How to Make Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by mixing the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast in a bowl. Letting it sit for about 10 minutes will allow the yeast to wake up and become foamy. This is the first magical step to achieving a light and fluffy loaf.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Next, add your eggs, softened butter, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead everything together until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading is important to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Cover the dough and let it rise for one hour so it can double in size and develop that lovely airy texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter Filling
While your dough is rising, melt the butter in a pan and gently sauté the finely minced garlic for about 2 minutes, making sure it doesn’t brown too much. Then stir in your choice of fresh chopped herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary. This fragrant butter mixture will bring the swirled filling to life.
Step 4: Roll Out and Spread
On a floured surface, roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle. Generously brush the garlic herb butter all over the surface, ensuring every bite gets that savory flavor. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top, preparing for the signature swirls.
Step 5: Shape the Bread
Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, then slice it lengthwise. Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing up so the garlic herb and cheese filling peeks through in beautiful ribbons. This technique creates the signature swirls that make this bread so irresistible.
Step 6: Second Rise
Place the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan and cover it. Allow it to rise again for 30 to 40 minutes, giving the loaf even more volume and a light, tender crumb when baked.
Step 7: Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaf with the egg wash made from one egg mixed with a tablespoon of water to achieve a gorgeous golden crust. Bake the bread for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese filling is bubbling and fragrant.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This rest allows the cheese to set just enough so your slices come out neat, but still warm and comforting to enjoy.
How to Serve Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese over the top before serving. A brush of melted butter over warm slices also enhances the bread’s richness and shine.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups like tomato basil or creamy potato leek, and it’s fantastic alongside a fresh green salad. Its cheesy, garlicky goodness makes it the perfect companion for a wide range of mains, from pasta dishes to roasted meats.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the bread in bite-sized pieces as an appetizer with a side of marinara or pesto for dipping. You can also slice it thick and use it for open-faced sandwiches or even grilled cheese variations for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps keep the bread soft and fresh without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked bread by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes. This refreshes the bread’s crust and melts the cheese back to its perfect gooey state.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella provides a nice melt and mild flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will change the flavor profile.
Do I have to use fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs are recommended for their vibrant flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch. Use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Is there a way to make this bread vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, use vegan butter, and replace the eggs with flaxseed or chia egg substitutes. Vegan cheese can also be used for the filling to maintain that cheesy goodness.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Definitely! After kneading, cover the dough and refrigerate overnight. Just take it out about an hour before shaping to let it come to room temperature and finish rising.
What if my bread is dense after baking?
This can happen if the dough didn’t rise enough or was over-kneaded. Make sure your yeast is active, dough has risen adequately, and avoid adding too much flour during kneading.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe that makes it more than just a loaf—it’s a warm hug from the oven. Whether you’re sharing it with family or keeping it all to yourself, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the delightful aromas of herbs, garlic, and melted cheese. You won’t regret it!
Print
Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 1h 30m
- Cook Time: 40m
- Total Time: 2h 10m
- Yield: 1 large loaf
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread is a deliciously soft and fluffy loaf infused with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a savory snack or side, this bread features a beautiful twisted swirl that combines rich garlic herb butter and gooey cheese in every bite.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
Filling
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for filling)
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or rosemary)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl and let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough: Add the eggs, softened butter, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and allow the dough to rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
- Make Garlic Herb Butter: While the dough is rising, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs and remove from heat. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Shape Dough: Roll the risen dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Brush the surface evenly with the garlic herb butter mixture and then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Form the Swirl: Roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Then slice the log lengthwise, exposing the layers of filling. Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing upward to reveal the swirl pattern.
- Second Rise: Place the twisted dough into a greased pan and let it rise again for 30 to 40 minutes until puffed and nearly doubled in size.
- Preheat and Egg Wash: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the large egg with water to create an egg wash. Brush this over the top of the loaf to give it a golden and glossy finish when baked.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese melts beautifully within. Remove from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh active dry yeast and ensure the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- You can customize the herbs based on your preference—thyme, parsley, or rosemary work well.
- This bread is delicious served warm and pairs wonderfully with soups or salads.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat in the oven to restore freshness.
