Swirled Garlic Herb Bread.

If you’re looking to elevate your bread game, look no further than this Swirled Garlic Herb Bread. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors that will not only fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but will also impress your family and friends. This bread is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply a treat for yourself. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of parmesan creates a symphony of flavors that will have you reaching for slice after slice. Let’s dive into why you should make this bread and how to get started!

Top Reasons to Make Swirled Garlic Herb Bread.

• Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering taste experience that pairs well with any meal.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful color to the bread.
• Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, as a side to your favorite soup, or as a base for a delicious sandwich.
• Impressive Presentation: The swirled design makes this bread a show-stopper at the dinner table.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a seasoned baker to bring this bread to life.

Gather These Ingredients

• 3/4 cup warm whole milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 large eggs
• 3 1/2 to 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
• 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage

Tools of the Trade

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for perfect results.
• Wooden Spoon or Dough Scraper: For mixing and kneading the dough.
• Rolling Pin: To roll out your dough for easy swirls.
• Baking Sheet or Loaf Pan: To bake your bread to golden perfection.
• Kitchen Towel: To cover the dough while it rises.

Method: Swirled Garlic Herb Bread.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of warm whole milk, 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Add the Eggs and Flour

Once the yeast mixture is ready, whisk in 3 large eggs. Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Let it Rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Make the Herb Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together 6 tablespoons of softened salted butter, 1-2 cloves of grated or finely chopped garlic, 1/4 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of finely chopped fresh basil, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh thyme, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh sage. Set aside.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 1/2 inch thick.

Step 7: Spread the Herb Mixture

Spread the herb mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, ensuring to reach the edges.

Step 8: Roll and Shape

Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal and tuck the ends under.

Step 9: Second Rise

Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover it with a towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.

Step 10: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor.
• Swap out the herbs for seasonal varieties like dill or parsley.
• Mix in some finely chopped olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Don’t rush the rising times; they are crucial for a light and airy bread.
• Ensure your milk is warm—not hot—to keep the yeast alive.
• Don’t skip the kneading step; it develops the gluten necessary for the bread’s structure.
• Overbaking can lead to a dry loaf, so keep an eye on it!

Save It for Later

Swirled Garlic Herb Bread can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, slice the bread and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough hasn’t risen, check the temperature of your yeast and ensure your kitchen is warm enough. Yeast thrives in warmth, so you may need to move it to a warmer spot.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to dissolve it in the warm milk first before adding it to the other ingredients.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An instant-read thermometer should read around 190°F (88°C) when inserted in the center.

Why is my bread dense?

A dense bread can result from not kneading enough, not allowing it to rise long enough, or using too much flour. Make sure to measure accurately and follow the rising times.

Save & Share

If you love this Swirled Garlic Herb Bread, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Snap a photo and tag your creations on social media. The world needs to know about this delightful recipe!

There you have it—a complete guide to making your very own Swirled Garlic Herb Bread. The process is straightforward, and the results are undeniably satisfying. Whether you’re serving it warm with a pat of butter or using it to accompany your favorite dishes, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake something extraordinary!