Cheesy Garlic Herb Twisted Bread
Yields: 6–8 large twists
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Bake Time: 15–20 minutes
Soft, fluffy bread filled with buttery garlic, herbs, and melted cheese, twisted into beautiful bakery-style strips.
Ingredients
For the Dough
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3½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
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1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 45°C)
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2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 large egg (room temperature)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling
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2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar (or a mix of both)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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3 cloves garlic, finely minced
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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½ teaspoon onion powder
For the Glaze
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1 egg
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1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture looks foamy and bubbly.
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter.
Knead
Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth, stretchy, and slightly soft to the touch without sticking.
First Rise
Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together:
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Softened butter
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Minced garlic
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Chopped parsley
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Onion powder
Stir until it forms a smooth garlic-herb spread.
Set the cheese aside for later use.
Shape the Twists
Roll the Dough
Place the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle about 12 × 18 inches.
Add the Filling
Spread the garlic-herb butter evenly over the surface. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the butter layer.
Fold and Slice
Fold the dough in half lengthwise so the filling is inside.
Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice into strips about 1½ inches wide.
Twist
Hold each strip at both ends and gently twist it several times.
Place each twist on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between them.
Final Rise & Baking
Second Rest
Cover the twists loosely and allow them to rest for 20–30 minutes.
During this time, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Egg Wash
Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water.
Brush
Lightly brush the tops of the twists with the egg wash for a glossy finish.
Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes, until:
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The bread is golden brown
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The cheese is melted and bubbly
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The kitchen smells amazing
Serving Ideas
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Serve warm with marinara or garlic butter
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Perfect as a side for pasta or soup
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Great for parties, lunchboxes, or snack boards
Tips
Add chili flakes for heat Add oregano or basil for Italian flavor Use pizza cheese blend for stretchier texture Best eaten warm, but reheats beautifully
