Name: Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 tbsp sugar; 1 cup warm water or milk (110°F/45°C); 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (plus more for brushing); 2–3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or blend); 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs or 1 tsp dried (parsley, oregano, thyme, basil); 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)

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Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread is a soft, savory loaf that’s packed with flavor in every slice. Layers of melted cheese, aromatic herbs, and buttery garlic are rolled into tender homemade dough, creating a beautiful spiral inside and a golden, cheesy crust on the outside. It’s perfect as a snack, side dish, or centerpiece for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this bread because it’s everything I want in a homemade loaf — soft, cheesy, garlicky, and full of flavor. The swirls make it extra special, both in taste and appearance, and I can smell the garlic and herbs even before it comes out of the oven. It’s the kind of bread I serve warm with soup, slice for sandwiches, or just tear apart and eat fresh from the oven. Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Active dry yeast
Sugar
Warm water or milk
Salt
Olive oil or butter
Minced garlic
Shredded cheese (like mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
Dried or fresh herbs (such as parsley, oregano, thyme, or basil)
Egg (for egg wash, optional)

Directions

I start by activating the yeast in warm water with a bit of sugar. Once it’s foamy (about 5–10 minutes), I stir in olive oil, salt, and flour to form a soft dough.
I knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then let it rise in a greased bowl for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, I prepare the filling by mixing softened butter or olive oil with minced garlic, chopped herbs, and a pinch of salt.
Once the dough has risen, I roll it out into a rectangle and spread the garlic-herb mixture evenly over the surface.
I sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top, then roll the dough tightly from one end to form a log.
I place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan (or shape it free-form on a sheet) and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Before baking, I brush the top with egg wash for a golden crust.
I bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
I let it cool slightly before slicing to reveal the beautiful swirls inside.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf (about 10 slices). It takes around 2.5 to 3 hours total — including rising and baking time — and about 30 minutes of hands-on prep.

Variations

Sometimes I use different cheeses like fontina, gouda, or parmesan for more intense flavor. I’ve also added cooked spinach, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flair. For a spicy twist, I sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese. It’s easy to adjust based on what I have on hand.

Storage/Reheating

I store the bread wrapped in foil or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes. It also freezes well — I slice it first, then reheat individual pieces as needed. Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread

FAQs

Can I use pre-made dough?

Yes, I’ve used store-bought pizza dough or bread dough when short on time. It still tastes great and saves a step.

What’s the best cheese for this bread?

I like mozzarella for meltiness and cheddar or parmesan for sharpness. A mix gives the best balance.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Absolutely. I use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs per tablespoon of fresh. Just adjust to taste.

Why is my bread dense?

I make sure the yeast is active and give the dough enough time to rise. Under-kneading or skipping the second rise can make it heavy.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes prep the rolled loaf and refrigerate it overnight before the second rise and bake it fresh the next day.

Conclusion

Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread is one of those bakes that fills the kitchen with irresistible smells and delivers on every bite. It’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether I’m slicing it up for a dinner side or enjoying a warm piece on its own, this bread always hits the spot.