Swirled Garlic Herb Cheese

This swirled garlic herb and cheese bread is perfect when you want something that feels indulgent but is still easy to prepare. The soft, fluffy dough wrapped around a buttery, garlicky herb filling and melted cheese creates a comforting and flavorful treat. Whether served as a cozy snack, appetizer, or alongside a meal, it always hits the spot with its beautiful swirls and inviting aroma.

I still remember making this for the first time during a quiet rainy afternoon. Now it is a regular request from my nieces when they visit.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: adds structure and strength to the dough
• Instant yeast: ensures a quick and reliable rise
• Sugar: helps activate the yeast and balances flavor
• Salt: enhances all the flavors in the bread
• Warm milk: keeps the dough tender and rich
• Butter: gives the dough softness and the filling richness
• Egg: adds moisture and gives the dough structure
• Garlic: brings bold savory flavor
• Dried oregano and basil: add aromatic warmth
• Mozzarella: melts smoothly and gives that cheese pull
• Cheddar or Parmesan: adds sharp flavor and depth

Instructions

Make the Dough:

Mix flour yeast sugar and salt in a large bowl. Add warm milk melted butter and egg. Stir until a sticky dough forms and knead on a floured surface for several minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl cover and let rise in a warm place for about one hour or until doubled in size.

Mix the Garlic Herb Butter:

In a small bowl combine softened butter minced garlic oregano basil and salt until smooth and fragrant.

Roll and Fill:

After the dough has risen roll it into a large rectangle about the size of a baking tray. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly from edge to edge. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar or Parmesan generously over the butter.

Shape the Bread:

Roll the dough tightly from the long end into a log then carefully slice the log lengthwise into two long pieces. Twist the two strips together so the cheese and herbs show in the layers. Place the twisted dough in a greased loaf pan or arrange on a baking sheet.

Second Rise and Bake:

Cover the shaped loaf and let it rest for about thirty minutes. Preheat the oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit. Bake until the loaf is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling usually around thirty minutes.

Cool and Serve:

Let the bread rest for at least ten minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy layers and buttery garlic in every bite.

I always use mozzarella as the base because of its meltiness and I remember once trying fresh rosemary instead of oregano which gave the loaf a cozy pine scent we loved during the holidays.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Wrap and refrigerate if needed but reheat in the oven for the best texture. Freezes well just wrap in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to two months.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of butter in the dough for a tangy flavor. Switch mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a deeper flavor. Try fresh herbs instead of dried for a fresher taste especially in spring and summer.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with creamy soups especially tomato or potato leek. Use for mini sandwiches with grilled vegetables or roasted meats. Slice and toast with a drizzle of olive oil for an easy appetizer.

Serve warm for the best texture and enjoy the gooey cheese pull. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for the best results.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What herbs complement this bread best?

Oregano and basil provide aromatic warmth, while rosemary and thyme offer robust, piney notes for variation.

→ Can store-bought dough be used?

Yes, pre-made dough works well and speeds up the process. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.

→ How to keep the bread soft after baking?

Cool slightly then wrap in a clean towel or foil. Store airtight once completely cool to maintain softness.

→ Is freezing the bread possible?

Wrap tightly after cooling and freeze for up to two months. Reheat in the oven to enjoy warm and fresh.

→ Can the bread be shaped differently?

Yes, try braiding, rolls, or a round pan for pull-apart styles to vary the presentation and texture.