Garlic Herb Cheese Loaf (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Dough Base

01 - 1¼ teaspoons salt
02 - 3½-4 cups bread flour
03 - 3 large eggs, at room temp
04 - ¾ cup room temp buttermilk
05 - 2 tablespoons white sugar
06 - 2½ teaspoons instant yeast

→ Filling

07 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
08 - ½ cup freshly chopped basil
09 - 6 tablespoons room temp salted butter
10 - 4 finely chopped garlic cloves
11 - ¼ cup shredded parmesan
12 - 2 cups shredded cheddar
13 - 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, minced

→ Topping

14 - ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
15 - 2 tablespoons melted salted butter

# Instructions:

01 - Blend yeast, buttermilk, sugar, eggs, flour, and salt with a dough hook on a stand mixer for about 4-5 minutes. Toss in 2 tablespoons of butter and knead 2-3 more minutes. Add extra flour if needed for smoother dough.
02 - Wrap bowl with plastic wrap and leave in a warm spot for 2 hours to double in size. While waiting, stir together garlic, herbs, cheeses, and the rest of the butter in a little bowl.
03 - Flatten dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle. Coat generously with herb-butter mix and sprinkle a layer of cheddar. Roll from the long edge into a log and pinch the seam closed.
04 - Slice the log lengthwise, keeping the top end uncut. Fold the halves over each other to make a twist. Lay the twist carefully on a sheet lined with parchment paper.
05 - Cover loosely with wrap and set in a cozy spot for 45 minutes to puff up again.
06 - Brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. It’s ready when the top’s golden brown.

# Notes:

01 - Tastes extra nice when enjoyed warm right after baking.
02 - For the best result, keep all ingredients at room temp.