Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This warm, cheesy bread is not only simple to make but also bursting with flavors that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a comforting snack, this bread stands out with its gooey cheese, aromatic herbs, and rich garlic flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and herbs creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this bread with confidence.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own as a snack.
• Great for Sharing: Slice it up for gatherings or family dinners; everyone will want a piece!
• Freezes Well: Make extra loaves and freeze them for later enjoyment without losing quality.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Dough hook
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: A stand mixer saves time and effort by kneading the dough thoroughly without manual labor.
• Dough hook: This attachment ensures even mixing and helps develop gluten in the dough for a soft texture.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin allows you to easily shape the dough into an even rectangle for filling.

Ingredients

Enjoy this warm, right out of the oven…simple to make and even more delicious to eat!

Ingredients:
– 3/4 cup warm whole milk
– 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 3 large eggs
– 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 2 cups shredded cheddar
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
– 1/3 cup chopped Italian herbs such as sage, oregano, basil, and thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, grated

How to Make Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the milk, yeast, and honey. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly on top. Add the eggs, 3 1/2 cups flour, and salt. Using the dough hook, mix until fully combined (about 4-5 minutes). If sticky, gradually add up to an additional 1/2 cup flour until smooth.

Step 2: Let It Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Mix Filling Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the cheeses, herbs, and grated garlic. Set aside.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out onto a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (approximately 12 x 18 inches). Evenly sprinkle the cheese mixture over the dough. Starting from the long edge closest to you, roll it into a tight log. Pinch along the edge to seal.

Step 5: Twist and Coil

Using a sharp knife, cut the log in half lengthwise while leaving one end intact. Turn each half outward to expose filling. Cross them over each other repeatedly until twisted into a long shape.

Step 6: Final Rise

Coil the twisted dough into a circular shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover again and let rise for another 15 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top. Once done, slice and serve warm!

How to Serve Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is incredibly versatile and can enhance any meal. Here are some delightful ways to serve it that will elevate your dining experience.

With Soup

• Tomato Basil Soup: Pair this bread with a creamy tomato basil soup for a comforting meal.
• Minestrone: Serve alongside a hearty minestrone for a filling and nutritious option.

As an Appetizer

• Cheese Platter: Slice the bread and serve it on a cheese platter with various cheeses and fruits.
• Herbed Olive Oil Dip: Drizzle with olive oil mixed with herbs for a flavorful dip.

For Breakfast

• Eggs and Avocado: Top slices of this bread with scrambled eggs and avocado for a delicious breakfast.
• Fruit Jam: Spread some fruit jam or preserves on warm slices for a sweet treat in the morning.

As a Snack

• Sliced with Hummus: Enjoy it as a snack by dipping slices into hummus.
• With Pesto: Serve it with homemade or store-bought pesto for an Italian twist.

How to Perfect Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

To achieve the best results with your Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold dough mixing: Ensure all ingredients are well combined during mixing. This helps develop gluten, resulting in a better rise.
• Bold temperature check: Use warm milk, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. A temperature around 110°F is ideal.
• Bold proofing time: Allow enough time for the dough to rise until it doubles in size. Patience leads to fluffier bread!
• Bold cheese choice: Mix different cheese varieties for a rich flavor profile. Combining sharp cheddar with mozzarella creates great texture and taste.
• Bold kneading technique: Knead the dough until smooth but not overworked. Proper kneading makes for softer bread.
• Bold baking watch: Keep an eye on the bread while baking. Every oven is different; aim for that golden brown top!

Best Side Dishes for Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Pair your Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread with these delightful side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad filled with crisp greens and vibrant veggies adds crunch and balance.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for added nutrition.
3. Creamy Potato Soup: A rich potato soup provides warmth and creaminess that goes perfectly with the cheesy bread.
4. Grilled Chicken Salad: Serve along with grilled chicken salad drizzled in vinaigrette for protein-packed nourishment.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Spicy stuffed peppers can offer a contrasting flavor that’s sure to excite your palate.
6. Antipasto Tray: An antipasto tray filled with olives, artichokes, and cheeses creates an Italian feast vibe alongside the bread.
7. Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad complements the savory notes of the garlic herb flavors beautifully.
8. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta primavera will add another layer of satisfaction without overwhelming your taste buds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfect.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use precise measurements for flour and liquids. Too much flour can lead to dry bread, while too little can result in a dough that doesn’t rise properly.

• Skipping the proofing step: Allowing the yeast to activate is crucial. If you skip this step, your bread may not rise as expected. Ensure the mixture is bubbly before proceeding.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your milk is warm and your eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can hinder the yeast’s activation process, leading to dense bread.

• Overworking the dough: Kneading should be just enough to combine the ingredients and develop gluten. Over-kneading can make the bread tough instead of soft.

• Not letting the dough rise long enough: Patience is key! If you don’t let the dough double in size, your bread will be dense. Always wait for it to grow sufficiently.

• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven properly. Baking at a low temperature can result in undercooked bread, while too high can burn the crust before cooking the inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it cools completely before sealing it in a container to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds per slice; cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread, here are some common ones answered.

How do I make Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread?

To make this delightful bread, combine warm milk, yeast, honey, eggs, flour, salt, herbs, and cheese according to the provided recipe instructions.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like gouda or fontina for unique flavors in your Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread.

How do I know when my bread is done baking?

The top should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom. Use a toothpick if needed; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Can I add extra herbs or spices?

Yes! Customize your Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread by adding more herbs or even spices like red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated later, this recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Feel free to customize it with different cheeses or herbs based on your preference!