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Swirled Garlic Herb & Cheese Bread

Ingredients

Scale

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any other cheese of your choice)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for brushing)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Active Dry Yeast: This yeast helps the dough rise, creating that soft, airy texture inside the bread.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and moisture to the bread, contributing to its tender crumb.
  • Cheese: The mozzarella and Parmesan provide a lovely gooey texture, while the Parmesan adds a tangy, savory depth to the bread.
  • Garlic & Herbs: The garlic and herbs infuse the bread with delicious savory flavors, making each bite aromatic and flavorful.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
  2. Mix the Dough: Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a spoon or your hands until the dough begins to come together.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
  4. First Proof: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Garlic Herb Filling:

  1. Make the Garlic Herb Mixture: While the dough is proofing, heat a small pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  2. Mix the Herbs: In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, basil, and parsley (if using). Once the garlic has cooled, stir it into the herb mixture.

Shape the Bread:

  1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, approximately 12×8 inches in size.
  2. Add the Cheese & Herb Filling: Brush the surface of the dough with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle the garlic herb mixture evenly over the dough, then layer on the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Roll and Shape: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a log shape, ensuring that the filling stays inside. Pinch the edges to seal the roll.
  4. Form the Swirl: Twist the rolled dough into a spiral shape and place it in a greased 9-inch round or square baking pan, or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake the Bread:

  1. Second Proof: Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, until it becomes puffed up.
  2. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, place it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Optional Butter Brush: For a glossy, buttery finish, melt a tablespoon of butter and brush it over the top of the bread as soon as it comes out of the oven.

Cool and Serve:

  1. Cool: Let the bread cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing it. This will help it set and make it easier to cut.
  2. Slice and Serve: Once cooled, slice the bread into wedges or thick slices. It’s best served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

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