Swirled Garlic Herb Bread is rolled and twisted to create beautiful, buttery swirls of herbs and garlic that elevate it beyond traditional garlic bread! The soft, fluffy yeast bread is tender with just the right amount of chewiness, while the swirls of garlic herb butter seeps into every layer, giving you bursts of savory goodness with each bite. The fresh herbs add a brightness that balances the richness of the Parmesan and butter. With just a few simple steps, you can create this bakery-worthy loaf right at home! Serve it as a side with pasta, soups, or salads, or enjoy it on its own as an appetizer. It’s a great way to impress your friends and family at dinner parties, a special occasion, or even just a cozy night in when you want to treat yourself to something homemade and comforting! If you love this bread, you’ll want to check out my other favorites: Cheesy Garlic Bread, The Best Challah Bread, Easy Rosemary Focaccia Bread, Homemade Bread Bowls, Soft Garlic Parmesan Homemade Breadsticks, and Roasted Garlic & Rosemary No-Knead Artisan Bread—each one more delicious than the last!
Why We Love This Recipe
This garlic herb swirl bread recipe is loaded with flavor thanks to the fresh garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese, making each bite irresistible. The soft, pillowy dough is easy to work with, and the swirling technique creates a beautiful presentation without being too complicated. It’s a versatile bread that pairs well with so many dishes, from Italian dinners to hearty soups, or it can even be enjoyed on its own.
What You’ll Need
Scroll down to the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
All-Purpose Flour – The base of the dough, giving structure to the bread while keeping it light and soft. Granulated Sugar – Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors. Instant Dry Yeast – This makes the dough rise, giving you that fluffy, soft bread texture. Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances out the butter and garlic. Whole Milk – Adds richness and tenderness to the dough, making it soft and delicious. Salted Butter – Both mixed into the dough and spread as the garlic herb butter, it makes this bread wonderfully rich and flavorful. Large Eggs – Help bind the dough and add richness, contributing to that soft, tender crumb. Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that works perfectly with the garlic and herbs. Garlic – The star of the show, giving this bread its signature garlicky goodness. Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the rich flavors of the butter and garlic. Italian Seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs to enhance the flavor of the bread.
How to Make Swirled Garlic Herb Bread
Tips for Success
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese can be a bit dry and won’t melt as nicely into the bread. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot. A slightly warm oven (turned off) works wonders if your kitchen is cool. Don’t rush the twisting process! The slow, careful twist helps create those beautiful swirls, which are not only pretty but ensure that the garlic herb butter is evenly distributed. If your dough seems sticky, don’t panic! A light dusting of flour will help as you roll it out and shape it. For an extra garlicky kick, brush more garlic butter on top of the bread after it bakes. You’ll thank yourself later!
Substitutions and Variations
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor twist. Swap the parsley with fresh basil or thyme if that’s what’s growing in your herb garden. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a subtle heat. If you prefer, you can make this bread with whole wheat flour—just use half whole wheat and half all-purpose to keep it light. Try adding a sprinkle of mozzarella for a cheesy, extra gooey swirl that everyone will love.
Must-Try Bread Recipes for Every Bread Lover
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Recipe adapted from Mel and Boys Kitchen and Half Baked Harvest. It’s also fantastic alongside a hearty pasta dish like Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs or Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo. For a more casual meal, pair it with a Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad and enjoy it as a light, flavorful side. It also makes a great appetizer, served warm with a little extra butter or olive oil for dipping!
