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:

  1. Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
  2. 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).
  3. 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.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. 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.
  6. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the dough into 6-8 equal strips. Stack the strips on top of each other.
  7. Carefully transfer the stacked strips to the prepared loaf pan, standing them upright.
  8. Cover the loaf pan and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
  9. 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).
  10. 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.