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Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe


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4.4 from 83 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 15 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread features a tender, fluffy dough infused with Italian herbs and garlic, generously filled with a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Twisted and baked to golden perfection, this savory bread is perfect as a comforting snack or a flavorful side to any meal.


Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup warm whole milk
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Cheese and Herb Filling

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup chopped Italian herbs (such as sage, oregano, basil, and thyme)
  • 2 cloves garlic, grated


Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the warm milk, yeast, and honey. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly on top, indicating that the yeast is active.
  2. Make the Dough: Add the eggs, 3 1/2 cups of flour, and kosher salt to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook, mix the ingredients until all the flour is incorporated, about 4-5 minutes. If the dough feels sticky, gradually add up to 1/2 cup more flour until the dough is smooth to the touch.
  3. Let the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and leave it at room temperature for 1 hour or until the dough doubles in size.
  4. Prepare the Cheese and Herb Mix: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, chopped Italian herbs, and grated garlic, mixing well to evenly distribute the flavors.
  5. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle approximately 12 by 18 inches.
  6. Add Filling and Roll: Sprinkle the cheese and herb mixture evenly over the dough. Beginning at the long edge closest to you, tightly roll the dough into a log, then pinch along the seal to close it completely.
  7. Cut and Twist the Dough: Using a sharp knife, cut the log lengthwise in half, leaving a small portion uncut at one end to keep the two halves connected. Flip the halves outward to expose the filling, then cross and twist the dough ropes multiple times to form a long twisted shape.
  8. Form the Bread: Coil the twisted dough into a circle and carefully transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it loosely and let it rest for 15 minutes to relax.
  9. Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  10. Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly, then slice and serve warm to enjoy the melted cheese and fragrant herbs with a soft, fluffy crumb.

Notes

  • If you prefer a more rustic crust, you can brush the bread with a bit of melted butter right after baking.
  • Feel free to adjust the herb mixture according to your taste preferences or availability.
  • Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • For an extra garlic flavor, add roasted garlic cloves to the cheese mixture.
  • This bread is best served fresh but can be reheated wrapped in foil at 350°F for 10 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American