Garlic and Herb Swirl Bread

 This aromatic bread features ribbons of garlic, fresh herbs, and butter swirled throughout a tender crumb. Perfect alongside pasta or as the star of your bread basket.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1½ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar

For the Filling:

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled.
4. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
5. Punch down dough and roll into a 16x12 inch rectangle. Spread herb butter mixture evenly, leaving a ½-inch border.
6. Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough. Place seam-side down in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
7. Cover and let rise 45 minutes until puffy.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
9. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing. Let cool completely before slicing.

Storage

Store wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.

Tips

• For best results, use fresh herbs rather than dried
• Ensure butter is very soft but not melted
• Let dough come to room temperature if frozen before baking