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Garlic and Herb Cheese Braid Recipe

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This Garlic and Herb Bread recipe combines a soft, homemade yeast dough with a flavorful filling of minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect as a savory side or a delicious snack, this bread offers a golden, blistered crust and a tender, cheesy interior with aromatic herbs. Ideal for enjoying warm out of the oven or alongside your favorite meal.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 4 cups plain all-purpose flour (weighed for precision)
  • 1.5 cups warm water (heated to 100–110°F)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (approximately 2¼ teaspoons)
  • 1 small spoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Filling

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cups mixed fresh herbs, chopped (mostly parsley with a little thyme)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (split between mozzarella and sharp cheddar)

Instructions

  1. Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast, stirring gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until tiny bubbles appear on the surface, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Pour in the bloomed yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix to form a rough dough.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead vigorously for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and springy to the touch.
  4. First Rise: Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning once to coat all sides. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  5. Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough gently and flatten it into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
  6. Add the Filling: Evenly spread the minced garlic over the dough surface. Then sprinkle the chopped mixed herbs followed by the shredded cheese, distributing them evenly.
  7. Form the Bread: Press the filling gently into the dough. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Carefully slice the rolled log lengthwise down the center to expose the layers, then twist the two halves together into a loose braid shape.
  8. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) to warm up while you prepare the bread for baking.
  9. Prepare for Baking: Place the braided dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the entire surface with olive oil to encourage a golden crust.
  10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes or until the crust is blistered, golden brown, and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating doneness.
  11. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • Ensure the water is not too hot when proofing yeast; temperatures above 115°F can kill the yeast.
  • Use fresh herbs for maximum aroma and flavor. Parsley and thyme complement garlic beautifully.
  • Mixing mozzarella and sharp cheddar provides a perfect balance of melt and tanginess in the cheese filling.
  • Allowing the dough to rise fully is essential for a light, airy texture.
  • Brushing olive oil on top before baking helps achieve a golden crust and adds richness.
  • Check the bread towards the end of baking to avoid over-browning.

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/garlic-and-herb-cheese-braid-recipe/