Cheddar Herb Swirl Bread

Cheddar Herb Swirl Bread is a delightful and flavorful addition to any meal. This bread combines the rich taste of cheddar cheese with fresh herbs, creating a delicious swirl that pleases the palate. Whether served alongside soup, salad, or on its own, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Cheddar Herb Swirl Bread at home is a fun and rewarding experience. The combination of cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs makes each bite special. Plus, baking bread from scratch allows you to give your family fresh, homemade food without preservatives. This recipe is also simple enough for beginners, making it a great choice for anyone wanting to try their hand at baking.

How to Make Cheddar Herb Swirl Bread

Creating this tasty bread is easy. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm loaf to enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or thyme)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 egg

Directions:

In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and garlic powder.
Add the melted butter, milk, and egg to the yeast mixture, then combine with the dry ingredients.
Stir in the cheddar cheese and herbs until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Punch down the dough, then roll it out into a rectangle.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and herbs over the dough, then roll it up tightly.
Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan.
Let it rise again for 30-45 minutes.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow to cool before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Cheddar Herb Swirl Bread

Cheddar Herb Swirl Bread is best served warm. You can slice it right out of the oven and enjoy it with butter, or use it to accompany your favorite soups and salads. It also makes a delicious base for sandwiches.

How to Store Cheddar Herb Swirl Bread

To store this bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. This bread freezes well; just make sure to wrap it securely to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Cheddar Herb Swirl Bread

For best results, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start.
Don’t skip the rising times; they help develop the bread’s texture.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or herbs to customize the flavor.

Variation

You can add other ingredients to change things up! Try adding cooked bacon for a savory twist, or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! You can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.

2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs are not available, you can use dried herbs instead. Just use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs have a stronger flavor.

3. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking it the next day.

Enjoy making and sharing your Cheddar Herb Swirl Bread with family and friends!