Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of cheddar, mozzarella, and fresh herbs. This bread is perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to casual get-togethers. Its soft texture and savory aroma make it an irresistible addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavorful: The blend of garlic and herbs gives this bread a deliciously aromatic taste that complements any dish.
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack—it’s great for any time of day.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a wonderfully cheesy experience in every bite.
• Perfectly Soft: The dough yields a soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking this bread a breeze. Gather your essentials before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: This tool makes kneading the dough effortless, ensuring a smooth texture without much manual effort.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife is crucial for cutting the dough properly without squishing it, preserving the beautiful filling inside.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when baking.

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. Mix using the dough hook until fully incorporated (about 4–5 minutes). If needed, add more flour until the dough feels 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 Cheeses and Herbs

In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, and grated garlic.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Punch down the risen dough. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 12 x 18 inches. Evenly sprinkle the cheese mixture over the surface of the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Bread

Starting with the long edge closest to you, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch along the edge to seal it. Cut the log in half lengthwise but leave one end intact. Twist both halves together to create a braided look.

Step 6: Form into a Circle

Coil the twisted dough into a circular shape. Transfer it carefully onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it lightly and let it rest for another 15 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 30–35 minutes until golden brown on top. Remove from oven and slice while warm before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread!

How to Serve Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a side dish, a snack, or part of a main meal, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Dips

• Garlic Butter: Melted garlic butter complements the bread’s flavors perfectly.
• Marinara Sauce: A classic choice for dipping; the acidity balances the richness of the cheese.
• Herbed Olive Oil: Infuse olive oil with herbs for a light and flavorful dip that enhances the bread.

As a Sandwich Base

• Turkey Club: Slice the bread and use it as a base for a turkey club sandwich layered with fresh veggies.
• Grilled Cheese: Make an indulgent grilled cheese using more cheddar or mozzarella for gooey perfection.

Accompanying Soups

• Tomato Basil Soup: The cheesy bread is fantastic alongside a bowl of rich tomato basil soup.
• Chicken Noodle Soup: Pairing it with this comforting classic creates a satisfying meal.

As an Appetizer

• Cheese Platter: Serve slices of the bread on a cheese platter with various cheeses and fruits for an elegant touch.
• Bruschetta Style: Top slices of the bread with diced tomatoes and basil for a fresh bruschetta twist.

How to Perfect Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Making perfect Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use Warm Milk: Ensure your milk is warm but not hot; this activates yeast effectively without killing it.
• Knead Thoroughly: Kneading helps develop gluten, giving your bread its soft texture. Aim for 4-5 minutes of mixing.
• Don’t Rush Proofing: Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size ensures better flavor and texture in the final product.
• Rotate While Baking: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing; this helps maintain its structure and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Pairing side dishes with Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread can create memorable meals. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in vinaigrette complements the richness of the bread.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and flavor, creating a balanced plate.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide heartiness alongside the cheesy bread.
4. Creamy Potato Soup: This comforting soup pairs well, making for a cozy meal during colder months.
5. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy dip that goes wonderfully with slices of garlic herb cheddar cheese bread as dippers.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and a tangy dressing make this salad an excellent companion.
7. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters add texture and taste that pairs nicely with soft cheesy bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread, avoiding a few common mistakes can enhance your baking experience and ensure delicious results.

• Skipping the yeast proofing: Always let the yeast foam in warm milk before adding other ingredients. This step ensures your bread rises properly.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour. Too much flour can lead to dry bread, while too little can make it dense.
• Overworking the dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Over-kneading can result in tough bread rather than soft, airy loaves.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially eggs and milk, are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can inhibit yeast activity.
• Neglecting to let the dough rise adequately: Allow your dough to double in size during the first rise. Rushing this step will yield a denser loaf.
• Not letting the bread cool before slicing: Allow your bread to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting. This helps maintain its structure and moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

• Wrap slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and wrap the bread in foil for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds per slice.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread.

Can I use different types of cheese?

You can certainly customize the cheese blend! Feel free to experiment with gouda, fontina, or even vegan cheese alternatives for a unique flavor.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should nearly double in size. A good test is to gently press your finger into it; if the indentation remains, it’s ready!

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used as a substitute. Just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Ensure that other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different cheeses or herbs based on your preferences. This delightful bread is perfect for any meal or occasion—try it today!