Introduction
There’s something utterly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, and when it’s a Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread, you’ve hit the jackpot! This delightful loaf is a true celebration of flavors, featuring swirls of fragrant garlic, fresh herbs, and melty cheese that create a luscious experience with every bite. Perfect for sharing with friends or family, this bread pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or just enjoyed on its own. Let’s dive into making this irresistible treat!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra olive oil for brushing
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is well-distributed.
- Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough starts to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Your efforts will be rewarded with a lovely texture!
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, mix together the minced garlic, chopped thyme, and rosemary in a small bowl. Set this fragrant mixture aside.
- Once the dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
- Brush the rolled-out dough generously with olive oil, and then sprinkle the herb-garlic mixture evenly over the surface.
- Top the herb mixture with layers of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing those cheesy flavors to shine.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Make sure to pinch the seams to seal it well.
- Gently twist the log to create that beautiful swirled effect, then place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover the pan with a damp towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, allowing it to puff up.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), filling the kitchen with anticipation.
- Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until it turns a glorious golden brown on top, signaling its readiness.
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack.
- Finish by brushing the top with a little more olive oil and garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color before slicing into that heavenly loaf.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, feel free to experiment by adding other herbs or spices like oregano or basil.
- If you want to make this bread ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight; just allow it to come to room temperature before continuing with the process.
- This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days, or frozen for longer shelf life.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough properly is essential for developing the gluten, which gives the bread its structure and chewiness. When you punch dough down after rising, you’re releasing excess gas and redistributing the yeast for a more even flavor throughout the bread. Lastly, twisting the log before placing it in the pan not only looks beautiful but also helps to incorporate the swirls of flavor evenly.
FAQ
- Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, using bread flour will create an even chewier texture, making for a wonderfully satisfying loaf. - Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! The more cheese, the merrier! Just be mindful not to overpower the bread with too much moisture. - What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can work in a pinch; just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount.
Conclusion
Nothing quite compares to the joy of breaking into a freshly baked Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread. With its delightful aroma, rich flavors, and beautiful presentation, this loaf is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let your kitchen be filled with warmth and the promise of delicious homemade bread!