Description
This Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread is the ultimate comfort bake—soft, buttery, and filled with gooey mozzarella and fragrant herbs. Perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a golden, cheesy homemade loaf that looks as amazing as it tastes.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
1 cup warm milk
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
2 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
For the Garlic Herb Butter:
½ cup unsalted butter
4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or rosemary)
For the Filling:
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Finish:
1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Instructions
Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes, until foamy.Make the Dough:
Add softened butter, eggs, flour, and salt. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes). Cover and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.Prepare Garlic Herb Butter:
Melt butter in a small saucepan. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in fresh herbs. Cool slightly.Roll & Fill:
Punch down dough and roll into a large rectangle. Brush generously with garlic herb butter, then sprinkle mozzarella evenly on top.Shape the Swirl:
Roll tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice lengthwise, twist both halves together (cut sides up), and place into a greased loaf pan.Second Rise:
Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).Bake:
Brush loaf with egg wash and bake 35–40 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.Cool & Serve:
Let rest 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Notes
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor—dried can be substituted if needed.
Try adding Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
To store, wrap in foil and keep at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5.
This bread freezes beautifully—just reheat in the oven to revive the melty magic.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes + 1 hour rise
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Bread, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 loaf)
- Calories: 265 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg