Swirled Garlic Herb Cheese (Printer-Friendly Version)

Buttery garlic and herb bread swirled with mozzarella and cheddar, baked to golden perfection.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Dough

01 - 3 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
03 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon salt
05 - 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
06 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
07 - 1 large egg

→ Garlic Herb Butter Filling

08 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
09 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Cheese

13 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
14 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or grated Parmesan

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
02 - In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, oregano, basil, and salt until well combined and fragrant.
03 - On a floured surface, roll the risen dough into a large rectangle approximately 12 by 8 inches. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar or Parmesan cheese evenly over the butter.
04 - Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice the log lengthwise into two long strips. Twist the two strips gently together so the cheese and herbs are visible in the layers. Arrange the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
05 - Cover the shaped loaf and let it rise for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
06 - Allow the bread to cool at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey cheese and flavorful garlic herb layers.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Use room temperature butter for easy spreading. Twist dough tightly to maintain beautiful layers. Let the dough fully rise for best texture.