Ingredients
Dough
- 3/4 cup warm whole milk
- 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 large eggs
- 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Cheese and Herb Filling
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped Italian herbs such as sage, oregano, basil, and thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the warm milk, yeast, and honey. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly on top, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix dough: Add the eggs, 3 1/2 cups of flour, and kosher salt to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook, mix until the flour is fully incorporated, about 4-5 minutes. If the dough remains sticky, gradually add up to 1/2 cup more flour until the dough is smooth and no longer sticky to the touch.
- First rise: Cover the dough bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Prepare filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, grated parmesan, chopped Italian herbs, and grated garlic until well combined.
- Shape dough and add filling: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle approximately 12 x 18 inches. Evenly sprinkle the cheese and herb mixture over the dough. Starting with the long edge nearest you, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam along the edge to seal completely.
- Cut and twist: Using a sharp knife, cut the log lengthwise down the middle, leaving a small section intact at one end to hold the piece together. Turn the two halves outward to expose the filling and cross them over each other, twisting repeatedly to form a long twisted braid.
- Form and second rise: Coil the twisted dough into a circular shape and carefully transfer it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and let it rest for 15 minutes to slightly puff before baking.
- Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Remove from the oven and let cool briefly before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Make sure the milk is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- The resting and rising times are important for the bread’s soft texture and flavor development.
- Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier kneading, or knead by hand until smooth and elastic.
- Feel free to customize the herb mix according to your preference or availability.
- For best flavor, serve the bread warm straight from the oven.
- This bread freezes well; wrap tightly and thaw before reheating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American