Swirled Garlic Herb Bread is a beautifully crafted, soft, and fluffy bread infused with a rich herb butter and a subtle hint of garlic. Despite its intricate appearance, it’s surprisingly simple to make. This bread is perfect for cozy family dinners, gatherings with friends, or as an impressive addition to any meal. Best served warm right out of the oven with a smear of butter, it’s a delightful way to use up fresh herbs from your garden.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

3/4 cup warm whole milk
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
2 tablespoons honey
3 large eggs
3 1/2 – 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

Directions

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, instant yeast, honey, eggs, 3 1/2 cups of flour, and salt. Using the dough hook, mix until the flour is fully incorporated, about 4-5 minutes.
Add 2 tablespoons of the room temperature butter and mix until combined, about 2-3 minutes more. If the dough is still sticky, gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup flour until the dough is smooth to the touch.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise at room temperature for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, basil, thyme, and sage to create the herb butter.
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out onto a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 12 x 18 inches. Spread the herb butter evenly over the dough.
Starting with the long edge closest to you, roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch along the edge to seal.
Using a sharp knife, cut the log in half lengthwise, leaving a small portion at one end intact. Turn the halves to expose the filling. Cross the dough ropes over each other, twisting them into a long, twisted dough.
Coil half of the rope up like a snake, stopping at the halfway point. Then, coil the second half of the rope in the opposite direction to form an “S” shape. Carefully transfer the shaped dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread is cooked through.
Brush the top of the loaf with additional butter. Slice and serve warm.

Nutrients

Per serving (based on 10 servings):

Calories: 795 kcal
Total Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 200mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 95g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 20g

The Appeal of Homemade Bread

There is something truly special about making bread from scratch. The process of kneading dough, watching it rise, and finally baking it in the oven creates an experience that connects you to the generations of bakers who have come before. Bread made at home has a texture and flavor that store-bought varieties can rarely match. Freshly baked bread, especially when you’ve added your own touch of flavor with garlic and herbs, has an unbeatable aroma that fills the kitchen and can transport you to a place of comfort and warmth.

Homemade bread like this Swirled Garlic Herb Bread has an added layer of personalization that you can’t achieve with mass-produced versions. By using fresh ingredients and making each step of the process by hand, you have complete control over the outcome of the bread. Plus, there’s something satisfying about serving a loaf that you created yourself.

The Perfect Addition to Any Meal

One of the best things about Swirled Garlic Herb Bread is its versatility. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or a main course accompaniment, this bread complements a wide range of meals. Its rich garlic and herb flavor pairs perfectly with soups, stews, salads, and meats. Imagine it alongside a hearty tomato soup or a fresh Caesar salad, offering a delightful contrast of textures. It can also be served with a charcuterie board, dipping in olive oil, or simply slathered with butter, making it a perfect snack.

The swirled design not only makes it a feast for the eyes but also enhances the flavor profile. Each slice offers a soft interior surrounded by a delicate, crisp outer layer, giving you an enjoyable mix of textures. The savory herbs and garlic blend seamlessly into the dough, making every bite a burst of flavor.

The Flavors and Ingredients That Make This Bread Stand Out

The magic of Swirled Garlic Herb Bread lies in its perfect combination of simple ingredients and powerful flavors. Garlic, being the central element, brings a fragrant sharpness to the bread. Its depth is further enriched by the use of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and sage, each contributing their unique notes to the final flavor. The fresh herbs offer a brightness and natural flavor that is far superior to dried alternatives, making this bread vibrant and full of life.

The Health Benefits of Fresh Herbs and Garlic

Garlic has been used for centuries for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Rich in antioxidants and allicin, garlic is known to support heart health, lower cholesterol, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s no wonder that garlic is one of the most commonly used ingredients in cooking worldwide. When used in Swirled Garlic Herb Bread, it not only enhances the flavor but also adds health benefits to the dish.

The Art of Swirling and Shaping the Dough

The visual appeal of this bread is undeniably one of its best features. The swirling technique, where the dough is rolled with the garlic-herb butter and then twisted into a coil, results in a striking design that is both fun to make and beautiful to present. While the swirling and shaping process may seem complex, it is relatively easy to master and adds an impressive touch to your homemade bread. The twisting motion not only creates the eye-catching pattern but also helps ensure that every bite of the bread is infused with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs.

The Importance of Proofing and Baking the Bread

Proofing, or allowing the dough to rise, is a crucial step in breadmaking that determines the texture and volume of the bread. For Swirled Garlic Herb Bread, there are two rounds of proofing: one after mixing the dough and another after shaping it into the spiral form. These rises give the bread its fluffy texture and lightness. During the proofing process, the yeast ferments and produces carbon dioxide, which causes the dough to rise. This results in the soft, airy texture that makes the bread so enjoyable.

Conclusion: Why Swirled Garlic Herb Bread Should Be Part of Your Baking Repertoire

In conclusion, Swirled Garlic Herb Bread is the perfect addition to your baking repertoire. Not only does it bring an elegant and savory touch to any meal, but it also provides a sense of accomplishment that comes with creating something from scratch.

0 Shares