Description
Ready to take your homemade bread game to the next level? This Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread is everything you love in one loaf: soft, fluffy dough filled with buttery garlic, fragrant herbs, and melty layers of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Perfect as a savory snack, a side for dinner, or even a cheesy breakfast on the go, this bread is as eye-catching as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
1 cup warm milk
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for filling)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large bowl, stir together warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 10 minutes until foamy.
 - Add flour, salt, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
 - Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
 - In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, parsley, and basil. Set aside.
 - Punch down dough and roll into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
 - Spread garlic herb butter evenly, then sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar over the dough.
 - Roll up tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice lengthwise down the center, exposing the layers. Twist the two halves together, keeping cut sides up.
 - Place in a greased loaf pan or on parchment-lined baking sheet. Let rise for 30 minutes while preheating oven to 350°F (175°C).
 - Bake 30–35 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
 - Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
 
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
 - Swap in gouda, provolone, or fontina for different cheese flavors.
 - Roast the garlic for a sweeter, mellow filling.
 - Brush with egg wash before baking for a glossy crust.
 - Bake in a round skillet for a rustic look.
 - Make mini loaves or rolls for individual servings.
 - Add sautéed mushrooms, bacon, or pesto for variations.
 - Store at room temperature 2 days, refrigerated up to 5 days, or freeze up to 2 months.
 
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
 - Cook Time: : 35 minutes
 - Category: Breakfast
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: American