Delight in This Swirled Garlic Herb Bread Recipe

Making your bread from scratch can be an exciting and rewarding experience. If you’re looking for a savory addition to your meals, Swirled Garlic Herb Bread is the perfect choice. This bread stands out with its rich garlic flavor and a blend of fresh herbs, making it ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or simply as a treat for yourself.

Why Make This Recipe

Swirled Garlic Herb Bread adds a touch of homemade goodness to any meal. The delightful aroma of garlic and herbs fills your kitchen while you bake, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or as a standalone snack. Plus, it’s easy to make, even for beginners. You’ll love the satisfaction of pulling a warm loaf out of the oven, ready to impress your family and friends.

How to Make Swirled Garlic Herb Bread

Ingredients:

¾ cup warm whole milk
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
2 tablespoons honey
3 large eggs
3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
1 teaspoon kosher salt
6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature, plus more for serving
1-2 cloves garlic, grated or finely chopped
¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
½ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage

Step by step:

Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and honey. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy, which shows that the yeast is active.
Mix the dough: Add eggs, 3 ½ cups flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Use a dough hook or mix by hand until everything is combined. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually incorporate the remaining flour. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and continue kneading for about 5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in a warm area. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the herb butter: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter with the grated garlic, parmesan, basil, thyme, and sage. Set aside for later.
Roll out the dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 12×18 inches. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the dough to ensure complete coverage.
Shape the bread: Roll the dough tightly into a log from the long side. Use a sharp knife to slice the log lengthwise while keeping one end slightly attached. Twist the two halves over each other to expose the herb-filled layers. Coil the twisted dough into an “S” shape and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second rise: Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for another 45 minutes. It should puff up slightly during this time.
Bake the bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Brush the warm bread with additional butter for an extra touch of flavor.

How to Serve Swirled Garlic Herb Bread

Serve this delightful bread warm, slathered with butter, or alongside your favorite pasta. It also works beautifully as a base for sandwiches. Consider pairing it with a fresh salad or a heartwarming soup for a complete meal.

How to Store Swirled Garlic Herb Bread

Store leftover baked bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

Tips to Make Swirled Garlic Herb Bread

Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
Use a thermometer to check if the milk is warm, ideally around 110°F (43°C).
Feel free to experiment with different herbs depending on your taste preferences.
If you want a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra clove or two.

Variation

You can add sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the herb mixture for a twist. Alternatively, try different cheeses, like feta or mozzarella, to create various flavor profiles.

FAQs

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour can give your bread a chewier texture, which many find appealing.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
Look for a golden brown color and tap the bottom of the loaf; if it sounds hollow, it’s done.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Absolutely! After mixing the dough, cover it and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

For more delicious recipes, check out this high-protein chicken salad or indulge in some crispy garlic chicken fried rice. Enjoy your baking adventure!