Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
  • 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon (6g) salt
  • 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 8 tablespoons (112g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
  • 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh chives (or 2 tablespoons dried chives)
  • 4 cups (400g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk or water

Instructions:

  1. Warm the milk, add yeast and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
  4. 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.
  5. While the dough rises, melt the butter for the filling. Stir in the minced garlic, parsley, and chives. Set aside.
  6. Punch down the risen dough. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches.
  7. Brush the melted butter mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese and black pepper.
  8. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into 6-8 long strips. Stack the strips on top of each other.
  9. Cut the stacked strips into 2-inch squares.
  10. Arrange the squares in the prepared baking dish, standing them up on their edges.
  11. Cover the baking dish and let the bread rise again for 30-45 minutes.
  12. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  13. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk (or water). Brush the top of the bread with the egg wash.
  14. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  15. Let the bread cool slightly before pulling apart and serving.