Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 packet (7g or 2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm milk (about 105-115°F or 40-46°C)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon (6g) salt
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh chives
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepper
- 3 cups (300g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
- Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms (about 8-10 minutes in a mixer or 10-12 minutes by hand).
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Punch down the risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle (approximately 12x18 inches). Spread the garlic-herb butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the dough into 6-8 equal strips. Stack the strips on top of each other.
- Carefully transfer the stacked strips to the prepared loaf pan, standing them upright.
- Cover the loaf pan and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the loaf with beaten egg and milk mixture. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm and pull apart to enjoy this cheesy bread.