Servings: 8 slices
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (includes rising)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Calories: 220 per slice
Macros (per slice): 8g Protein | 30g Carbs | 8g Fat | 1g Fiber
A Cozy, High-Protein Bread That Feels Like Pure Comfort
There is something deeply comforting about homemade bread rising on the counter. The soft scent of yeast. The slow swirl of garlic and herbs. The anticipation of that golden crust. This High-Protein Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread brings all of that warmth into your kitchen — with an added boost of protein from real cheese.
If you love high protein baking but still crave classic comfort food, this recipe gives you both. The dough bakes into a tender loaf, layered with garlic, fresh herbs, and melted cheese in every swirl. It is the kind of bread that turns a simple dinner into something special.
This high protein garlic herb bread works beautifully as a side dish, a meal prep staple, or even toasted for breakfast with eggs. It is homemade, flavorful, and packed with satisfying ingredients that make every slice worth it.
Ready in under three hours and perfect for clean eating comfort meals, this loaf delivers flavor, texture, and balance in every bite.
Look at the Recipe
- Soft and fluffy interior with a golden crust
- High-protein, savory, and deeply aromatic
- Perfect for meal prep, soups, or healthy dinner spreads
Ingredients Needed
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water (100–110°F / 38–43°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Herb Cheese Filling
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or a mix), finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
How to Make Our High-Protein Swirled Garlic Herb and Cheese Bread
1. Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast with a small pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your bread rises beautifully.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. Combine the Dough
Drizzle in olive oil, then pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step builds structure and helps create that fluffy texture.
5. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Add the Filling
Roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread minced garlic, chopped herbs, and shredded cheese evenly across the surface.
7. Shape the Loaf
Tightly roll the dough into a log, sealing the edges. Place seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.
8. Second Rise
Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes. This helps create a light, airy crumb.
9. Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Cool
Let the loaf rest in the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and allow it to cool before slicing.
This savory loaf pairs perfectly with soups, high protein chicken dinners, or as a macro friendly snack with cottage cheese or eggs.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days if your kitchen is warm.
- Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months for easy meal prep.
- Reheat in the oven or toaster for best texture.
Serve warm with softened butter, alongside grilled chicken, or as a base for a high protein breakfast sandwich.
Tips & FAQs
Can I increase the protein content?
Yes. Replace ½ cup of flour with unflavored whey protein isolate or high-protein bread flour. You can also add an extra ¼ cup shredded cheese for more protein.
Can I make this whole wheat?
Absolutely. Substitute up to half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Can I prepare the dough overnight?
Yes. After the first rise, refrigerate the dough overnight. Bring to room temperature before shaping and baking.
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella melts smoothly. Cheddar adds sharper flavor. A blend of both creates balance.
Is this good for meal prep?
Definitely. Slice and freeze for easy healthy meals throughout the week.
