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Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe


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4.2 from 9 reviews

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

Description

This Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is a delightful homemade bread featuring a rich blend of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, and aromatic Italian herbs and garlic. Perfectly soft and tender, it is twisted and baked into a beautiful circular loaf that is ideal for serving warm as a savory snack or alongside meals.


Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup warm whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 3 large eggs

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast (one packet)
  • 3 1/2 - 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Cheese and Herb Mixture

  • 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 yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the warm milk, yeast, and honey. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly on top, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix dough: Add the eggs, 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, and kosher salt to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook, mix on medium speed until the flour is fully incorporated, about 4-5 minutes. If the dough feels sticky, gradually add up to an additional 1/2 cup flour until the dough is smooth to the touch.
  3. First rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  4. Prepare cheese and herb filling: In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, chopped Italian herbs, and grated garlic. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.
  5. Shape dough and add filling: Punch down the risen dough to release air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle approximately 12 by 18 inches. Evenly sprinkle the cheese and herb mixture over the dough surface.
  6. Form the log: Starting from the long edge closest to you, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges along the seam to seal the dough securely.
  7. Cut and twist: Use a sharp knife to cut the log lengthwise in half, leaving one small end uncut to keep the pieces connected. Flip the two halves outward to expose the filling and cross the layers over each other repeatedly, creating a twisted pattern.
  8. Shape into circle and second rise: Coil the twisted dough into a circular shape. Transfer carefully to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and let it rest for 15 minutes to relax.
  9. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread on the middle rack for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  10. Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • Ensure milk is warm but not hot to effectively activate yeast without killing it.
  • You can customize the herb mixture based on your personal preference or available fresh herbs.
  • If you don’t have a stand mixer, knead the dough by hand for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
  • Make sure to seal the dough tightly when rolling to prevent filling leakage during baking.
  • Brush the top with an egg wash before baking for an extra golden crust, if desired.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American