Mediterranean Swirled Garlic & Herb Cheese Bread

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Mediterranean Swirled Garlic & Herb Cheese Bread

This soft pull-apart cheese bread is layered with fragrant garlic, herbs, and melted cheese. Each slice reveals beautiful swirls and delivers a comforting Mediterranean-inspired flavor. It is perfect for sharing with meals, soups, or enjoyed warm on its own.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) instant yeast

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / warm to the touch)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

  • 1½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella and cheddar combination works well)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.

2. Knead and Rest
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and work it gently for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it into a lightly greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rest in a warm area for 1 hour, or until it increases in size.

3. Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic, parsley, and dried herbs until evenly blended.

4. Shape the Dough
Roll the rested dough into a large rectangle, about 12 x 18 inches. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the shredded cheese across the top.

5. Create the Layers
Cut the dough into squares about 3–4 inches wide. Stack several squares together, keeping the layers aligned.

6. Arrange in the Pan
Lightly grease a loaf pan. Place the stacked dough pieces upright inside the pan, arranging them side by side so the layers are visible from the top. Cover and allow to rest for 20–30 minutes.

7. Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and the cheese is fully melted.

Tip: If the top colors too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the final minutes.

8. Serve
Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and serve warm.

Flavor Ideas

  • Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness

  • Mix in sliced olives for a Mediterranean touch

  • Sprinkle a little extra parsley on top before serving

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