why make this recipe
Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread is a fantastic addition to any meal. Its delicious blend of garlic, herbs, and cheesy goodness makes it a favorite among many. It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings, alongside soups, or simply as a snack. Plus, homemade bread brings a warm and inviting aroma to your kitchen, making it a great recipe to impress your family and friends.
how to make Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, roasted and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley, rosemary, or thyme), chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add flour, salt, olive oil, roasted garlic, and herbs. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough, incorporate the shredded cheese, and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the loaf in a greased bread pan and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.
how to serve Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread
Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve it warm, and you can pair it with butter, olive oil, or even marinara sauce for dipping. It goes wonderfully with salads, soups, or as a side dish for your favorite pasta.
how to store Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread
To store leftover Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it for a few minutes in the oven after thawing.
tips to make Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread
- Make sure the water is warm but not too hot, as hot water can kill the yeast.
- Knead the dough well to develop the gluten, which helps the bread rise nicely.
- Feel free to adjust the amount or type of cheese to suit your taste.
- For extra flavor, you can add more herbs or even spices like crushed red pepper for a little kick.
variation
You can try different types of cheese, such as feta or gouda, for a new flavor. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives can also give it a Mediterranean twist. For a sweeter bread, consider adding some grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of honey.
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can use whole wheat flour. Just be prepared for a denser bread, and you might need to add a bit more water.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
A: Yes, dried herbs work well too. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Q: How can I tell when the dough has risen enough?
A: The dough should double in size and feel lighter to the touch. You can gently press your finger into the dough; if the indentation stays, it’s ready to be punched down.
Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread
This delicious Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread features a blend of garlic, fresh herbs, and cheese, making it a perfect accompaniment for meals or a tasty snack.
For the dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast ((2 1/4 teaspoons))
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (should be warm but not hot)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, roasted and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs, chopped ((parsley, rosemary, or thyme))
- 1 cup shredded cheese ((mozzarella or cheddar))
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add flour, salt, olive oil, roasted garlic, and herbs. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough, incorporate the shredded cheese, and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the loaf in a greased bread pan and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.
Serve fresh out of the oven with butter, olive oil, or marinara sauce. Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.