Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe

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If you love the irresistible combination of melty cheese, fragrant herbs, and warm, soft bread, then this Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This recipe marries sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and savory parmesan with a blend of Italian herbs and fresh garlic, woven into a tender homemade dough that bakes up golden and inviting. Every bite bursts with flavor and comforting textures that make it perfect for sharing, or keeping all to yourself when you need a little culinary joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavors, textures, and aromas that make this bread unforgettable. From the hearty cheese blend to the fragrant herbs and perfectly proofed dough, these elements work harmoniously to create a savory masterpiece.

• ¾ cup warm whole milk: The perfect temperature activates the yeast to help the dough rise beautifully.
• 2 tbsp honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory cheeses.
• 3 large eggs: Contribute richness and structure to the dough for a tender crumb.
• 2 ¼ tsp yeast: The essential leavening agent for a soft and airy loaf.
• 3 ½-4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the dough’s framework; added gradually for ideal texture.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and controls yeast activity.
• 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp, melty, and full of bold flavor that stands out in every bite.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds beautiful stretch and moisture.
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Offers nutty, tangy notes that deepen the cheese blend.
• ⅓ cup chopped Italian herbs (sage, oregano, basil, and thyme): Fresh, aromatic herbs infuse the bread with vibrant flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, grated: Adds a fragrant kick to brighten and complement the cheeses.

How to Make Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

The secret to a perfectly risen loaf starts here. Combine the warm milk, yeast, and honey in the bowl of your stand mixer and let it sit until you see a bubbly foam. This foam is the sign that your yeast is active and ready to give your dough the lift it needs to become light and airy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Once your yeast mixture is bubbly and alive, add the eggs, flour, and kosher salt. Kneading the dough with a dough hook is a satisfying step: it transforms these simple ingredients into a smooth, elastic dough. Don’t rush—if it’s sticky, slowly incorporate more flour until it’s just right to handle but still soft.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover your dough and let it rest at room temperature. This one-hour nap allows the yeast to ferment, develop flavor, and double the dough’s size, building the perfect base for that cozy bread texture.

Step 4: Prepare Cheese and Herb Mixture

While the dough is rising, mix together all your cheeses, chopped Italian herbs, and freshly grated garlic. This vibrant blend will infuse the bread with rich, savory notes in every delicious peep.

Step 5: Roll and Fill the Dough

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a generous rectangle. Spread your cheese and herb mixture evenly across, then roll tightly into a log. Don’t forget to seal the seam well to keep all those flavors tucked inside!

Step 6: Shape the Bread

Cut the dough log lengthwise, leaving one end connected, and twist the halves together to reveal the cheesy swirls inside. This beautiful braid is not just pretty to look at; it bakes into layers of cheesy, herby goodness wrapped in tender dough.

Step 7: Form the Circle and Second Rise

Coil your twisted bread into a circle on a lined baking sheet and give it a brief rest. This second rest lets the bread puff slightly so that it’s light and springy after baking.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Bake your coiled creation at 350°F until golden brown on top and hollow-sounding when tapped. Baking for 30-35 minutes ensures that your loaf is cooked all the way through while keeping those cheesy pockets perfectly melty inside.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Nothing beats slicing and serving this bread warm, right when the cheeses are melted and the garlic and herbs are fragrant. It’s comfort food magic you’ll want to enjoy right away.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra wow, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over the top just before serving. A light brush of melted butter can add a glossy finish and extra richness that makes this bread even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with fresh garden salads, hearty soups like tomato bisque or butternut squash, or your favorite pasta dishes. Its robust flavors can hold their own and add comforting carbs to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try pulling apart the twisted bread strands for a fun sharing experience, or serve as individual rolls by portioning the dough before rising. For entertaining, place it in a bread basket with herb-infused olive oil for dipping, turning your table into a feast of flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it will stay fresh for up to two days, making it perfect for a next-day snack or sandwich base.

Freezing

You can freeze this bread before or after baking. To freeze dough, shape but don’t let it rise the second time; wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. For baked bread, wrap thoroughly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw completely before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, wrapped in foil to keep it moist. For that just-baked warmth, a quick 30-second zap in the microwave works well, but the oven method preserves the crust crispness.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in the Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan create the perfect balance here, you can experiment with gouda, fontina, or even a bit of blue cheese to make the flavors your own.

What if I don’t have Italian herbs on hand?

If you don’t have the exact herb mix, dried Italian seasoning works fine, or you can use any combination of fresh herbs you love, like rosemary, thyme, or parsley, to keep the bread aromatic and flavorful.

Do I need a stand mixer to make this bread?

While a stand mixer with a dough hook makes the process easier, you can knead the dough by hand. It takes a bit more elbow grease, but the end result is just as rewarding.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

This recipe relies on gluten for structure and rise, so adapting it to gluten-free is tricky. However, experimenting with gluten-free flours designed for bread baking might work with adjustments to liquid and rising times.

How important is the second rise?

The second rise lets the bread develop its final airy texture and helps the shape settle. Skipping it can result in denser bread, so it’s worth the short wait for the perfect loaf.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like pulling a freshly baked, warm loaf of this Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread Recipe out of the oven. It fills your kitchen with aromatic bliss and your taste buds with comforting, cheesy joy. Whether for a casual snack or a show-stopping side, this bread will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen rotation. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and start baking this delicious masterpiece today!

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