Name: Swirled Garlic Herb And Cheese Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk; 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast; 1 tablespoon sugar; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Ever dreamt of pulling apart a warm, golden loaf filled with melted cheese and the unmistakable aroma of garlic and herbs? Swirled Garlic Herb And Cheese Bread is the answer. This visually stunning, flavor-packed bread is perfect as a side, a snack, or even the centerpiece of a gathering.

Imagine tearing into soft layers of cheesy, herbed goodness with every bite bursting in flavor. Whether served alongside soup, pasta, or as part of a brunch table, this bread is a show-stopper that never lasts long.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start, gather the right tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable:

Mixing Bowls: For prepping the dough and combining ingredients efficiently.
Dough Hook or Stand Mixer: To knead the dough properly without tiring your hands.
Rolling Pin: Essential for evenly flattening the dough before spreading the cheese and herbs.
Sharp Knife or Bench Scraper: To slice the dough into swirls and to cleanly divide portions.
Loaf Pan or Baking Sheet: Depending on the shape you want. A loaf pan gives a structured rise; a baking sheet allows more rustic spread.
Pastry Brush: For brushing melted butter or egg wash for that glossy golden finish.

Each tool plays a key role in achieving the swirled, structured, and evenly baked bread. Don’t skip them!

Ingredients for the Swirled Garlic Herb And Cheese Bread

Warm Milk (1 cup): Activates the yeast and gives the dough a tender texture.
Instant Yeast (2 1/4 tsp): Leavens the bread and creates a light, airy crumb.
Sugar (1 tbsp): Feeds the yeast and adds a slight sweetness to balance the garlic.
All-purpose Flour (3 cups): The structure base for the dough—soft yet sturdy.
Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor and strengthens gluten.
Olive Oil (3 tbsp): Adds moisture and softness to the dough.
Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully and gives that irresistible cheesy pull.
Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp, melted): Carries the garlic flavor and crisps the crust.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The hero of flavor here—fragrant and savory.
Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Brightens the taste and color.
Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Deepens the herbal flavor profile.
Egg (1, for egg wash): Adds shine and a golden finish to the crust.

How To Make the Swirled Garlic Herb And Cheese Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit until foamy (about 5–7 minutes).

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare Filling

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic, parsley, and oregano. Set aside.

Step 5: Roll and Fill

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the garlic butter mixture over it and top with shredded mozzarella.

Step 6: Swirl the Dough

Roll the dough up jelly-roll style. Slice it lengthwise and twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up.

Step 7: Final Shape and Bake

Place the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes until golden.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let it cool slightly before slicing. Best served warm!

Serving and Storing Your Swirled Bread

Serve it warm, fresh out of the oven, paired with marinara sauce, soup, or a crisp salad. It’s also great as a shareable appetizer on game day or at potlucks.

To store, wrap it in foil or place in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, cheddar, provolone, or gouda also work well.

Can I freeze the bread?

Absolutely. Freeze after baking and cooling. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling mix.

Can I use active dry yeast instead?

Yes, but dissolve it in warm milk with sugar and let it activate a bit longer.

Can I make this vegan?

Use plant-based butter, non-dairy cheese, and skip the egg wash or use almond milk instead.

Want More Savory Bread Ideas?

You might also like the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe for a hearty, spicy twist on comfort food. Or try the Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni that pairs beautifully with cheesy bread.

For more savory bakes, visit the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti or the rich and comforting Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta. Looking for a light side? The Italian Grinder Salad is the perfect match.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your bread or appetizer boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use extra herbs? Add a different cheese? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others bake it.

For more daily recipes, follow my board on Pinterest at LadyPlate.

Swirled Garlic Herb And Cheese Bread

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 1 large loaf (6–8 servings)
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Swirled Garlic Herb And Cheese Bread is the ultimate savory bake—soft, cheesy, and herby with layers that peel apart perfectly. Ideal as a snack, a dinner side, or a party bread, this loaf delivers bold flavor and impressive presentation in every swirl.