Swiss Garlic Bread
If you’ve ever dreamed of making bread that fills your home with the irresistible aroma of fresh garlic and buttery goodness, this Swiss garlic bread recipe is for you. It’s not just bread, it’s a cheesy, garlicky masterpiece that’s sure to become one of your favourite things to bake. I’ve made this loaf countless times, and every time, it disappears within minutes of hitting the table. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or indulging in it as a snack, this swiss garlic bread recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide, with some personal tips and tricks sprinkled in to ensure your bread turns out golden brown and full of that signature garlic flavour.
Ingredients for Swiss Garlic Bread Loaf
To start, gather these ingredients. They’re simple, yet they come together to create a loaf bursting with cheesy pull and buttery goodness:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 tbsp dry yeast
- ½ tbsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 8 tbsp butter (divided)
Garlic Mixture:
- 3 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
- 6 tbsp fresh parsley (or 3 tbsp dried parsley)
- Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder for extra flavour
Cheese (Optional, but oh-so-good):
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
These ingredients make a perfect blend of soft bread with a crispy exterior and gooey centre.
Steps to Make the Perfect Swiss Garlic Bread Loaf
1. Prepare the Dough
In a medium-sized bowl, combine your dry ingredients: flour, yeast, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution. Then, add the buttermilk and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Using a spatula or wooden spoon (*a good idea for easier mixing), stir until a dough begins to form. Transfer it to a clean surface and knead lightly until it becomes smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
Tip: If it’s a chilly day, place the dough near the oven or use the proofing setting if your oven has one. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect rise.
2. Roll and Add the Filling
Once your dough has risen, sprinkle your work surface with a bit of flour and roll it out into a 16×10-inch rectangle using a rolling pin. Now, it’s time to prepare the garlic butter mixture. In a small bowl, mix the remaining butter (melted), minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of garlic powder. Spread this mixture evenly across the rolled-out dough using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon.
If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese over the butter mixture for a rich, cheesy finish.
3. Roll and Shape the Dough
Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Then, using a sharp serrated knife, cut the log in half lengthwise to expose the layers. Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up to show off the swirls of garlic, parsley, and cheese. Coil the twisted dough into a spiral shape, like a snake, and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Tip: Line your loaf pan with a sheet of foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) Bake the loaf for 35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven. For an extra touch, brush the hot loaf with melted butter right out of the oven.
Why This Swiss Garlic Bread Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Effortlessly Impressive: Despite looking like it came straight from a bakery, this bread is surprisingly simple to make.
- Customisable: Love spring onions? Sprinkle some in. Prefer a bolder flavour? Add more fresh garlic or experiment with Italian seasoning.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting dinner, need a quick side dish, or just want to snack, this loaf fits every bill.
Serving Suggestions for Swiss Garlic Bread
This bread pairs beautifully with many dishes. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Serve alongside italian recipes like spaghetti or lasagna for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Dip slices into tomato soup for a cosy lunch.
- Toast leftovers under the grill for crispy garlic bread sticks.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Storing and Reheating Your Garlic Bread
Storing:
Wrap leftover bread tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating:
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat in a 160°C oven for 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.
Freezing:
If you’re planning to freeze, wrap the unbaked loaf tightly in foil after shaping it. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and garlic cloves make a world of difference in flavour.
- Watch Your Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the bread during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: From poppy seeds to chili flakes, there are endless ways to customise this bread.
Final Thoughts on Swiss Garlic Bread
Making Swiss garlic bread is more than just a recipe, it’s a culinary adventure. From kneading the dough to watching it bake to golden perfection, every step is filled with buttery goodness and the anticipation of that first warm bite. The best part? This loaf brings people together. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly magical.
Next time you’re in the mood for comfort food, skip the convenience foods and try this recipe. Trust me, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine.
Enjoy baking this swiss garlic bread recipe! Don’t forget to share your creations and let me know how it turned out in the comments below.
Caryl Ann
