Goat cheese bread wreath

There’s something undeniably magical about baking bread, especially when it’s shaped like a golden wreath with warm pockets of goat cheese tucked between each swirl. This recipe brings together tender, fluffy bread dough and creamy goat cheese in a shape that looks festive and impressive, yet is surprisingly simple to make.

Behind the Recipe

The idea for this bread wreath came on a weekend when I wanted something special but not overly sweet. I had some soft goat cheese in the fridge and thought—why not bake it into a beautiful loaf that could sit proudly on a dinner table or brunch spread? The result was this wreath: warm, pillowy, and full of tangy flavor.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Bread wreaths have been part of European holiday tables for centuries, often filled with herbs, cheeses, or dried fruit. This version leans into modern rustic charm, pairing soft goat cheese with herbs and a hint of garlic. It’s a savory twist on a classic that works year-round—especially during colder months when you want something hearty and sharable.

Why You’ll Love This Bread Wreath

• Visually Stunning: Makes a perfect centerpiece for gatherings.
• Creamy Goat Cheese: Pockets of rich cheese in every bite.
• Simple Dough: Easy to knead and shape, even for beginners.
• Versatile Flavor: Add herbs, garlic, or even a drizzle of honey.
• Freezer-Friendly: Can be baked ahead and reheated.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use room temperature goat cheese so it spreads easily.
• Let the dough rest for full rise—it makes the texture softer.
• Don’t overfill with cheese or it’ll burst during baking.
• Use parchment paper for easy transfer to a baking tray.
• Brush with egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Clean surface for kneading
• Parchment paper or baking mat
• Baking sheet or round pizza pan
• Pastry brush for egg wash
• Small bowl for mixing filling

Ingredients in Goat Cheese Bread Wreath

For the dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¾ cup warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the filling:

• 6 oz goat cheese (soft, room temperature)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Optional: 1 tsp lemon zest or chili flakes

For topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Extra thyme or sesame seeds for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

• Goat cheese: Swap for feta, ricotta, or cream cheese.
• Thyme: Use rosemary, parsley, or Italian herbs.
• Egg wash: For vegan version, brush with olive oil instead.
• Garlic: Try shallots or garlic powder for a milder flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Goat Cheese: Tangy, creamy, and soft, it melts into the dough as it bakes, creating pockets of flavor throughout the wreath.

Fresh Herbs: Thyme pairs beautifully with cheese and adds an earthy aroma to the entire loaf.

Instructions for Making the Bread Wreath

Here are the steps you’re going to follow:

1. Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise

Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

3. Make the Filling

While dough rises, mix goat cheese, thyme, garlic, and any optional additions in a small bowl. Set aside.

4. Shape the Wreath

After rising, roll dough into a large rectangle (about 10×16 inches). Spread the goat cheese filling evenly over the surface.

Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Cut the log in half lengthwise, exposing the layers. Twist both halves together, then shape into a circle on a parchment-lined tray.

5. Second Rise

Cover lightly and let rest for 20–30 minutes while the oven preheats to 375°F (190°C).

6. Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with thyme or sesame seeds. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until deep golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm as a side, appetizer, or festive centerpiece.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The bread is tender inside with a chewy crust, and each bite offers a surprise of creamy, tangy cheese. The herbs lift the flavor without overpowering, while the golden top adds a bakery-style finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• If dough is sticky, add 1 tbsp flour at a time during kneading.
• If it browns too fast, cover loosely with foil.
• Let the shaped wreath rise in a warm, draft-free spot.

What to Avoid

• Don’t skip resting the dough—it helps with shaping.
• Avoid overfilling or you’ll have cheese leaks.
• Don’t overwork goat cheese—it should stay soft and creamy.

Nutrition Facts (approx.)

Serving size: 1 slice (1/10 of wreath)
Calories: 220
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Carbs: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 280mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Rest/Rise Time: 90 minutes
• Bake Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hrs 25 mins

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make the dough the night before and refrigerate after the first rise. Bring to room temp before shaping. Baked wreath keeps in an airtight container for 2 days. Reheat in oven for best texture.

How to Serve This Bread

• Slice and serve with soup or salad
• Add a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory touch
• Pair with olives, nuts, and fruit for a stunning appetizer board
• Serve with dipping oil or whipped butter

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Toast it: Make goat cheese toast with a smear of pesto
• Sandwich it: Use as bread for veggie or turkey sandwiches
• Bread pudding: Dice and bake into a savory bread pudding with eggs and spinach

Additional Tips

• Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions to the filling
• Try a mix of goat cheese and cream cheese for extra richness
• Use a bundt pan if you want a perfectly round shape

Variations to Try

• Herb Butter Version: Spread garlic herb butter instead of cheese
• Sweet Twist: Swap goat cheese for sweetened ricotta and add cranberries
• Spicy Wreath: Add jalapeño slices and chili flakes to the filling

FAQ’s

Q: Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes! Just roll it out and continue with the recipe from the filling step.

Q: What’s the best goat cheese to use?
Soft, spreadable goat cheese works best—plain or herbed.

Q: Can this be made vegan?
Use vegan dough, plant-based cheese, and skip egg wash.

Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze after baking. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

Q: What if I don’t like goat cheese?
Try cream cheese, ricotta, or even shredded mozzarella.

Q: Does it need to be eaten warm?
It’s best warm but still great at room temp.

Q: Can I make mini versions?
Absolutely—roll smaller logs and make personal wreaths.

Q: Why did my wreath lose shape?
It might not have proofed long enough, or wasn’t sealed tightly. Try using a pan to help hold its shape.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
Add crushed red pepper to the filling or sprinkle chili flakes on top.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly in foil and keep in a cool place for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

This Goat Cheese Bread Wreath is one of those recipes that feels a little fancy, a little rustic, and totally irresistible. Whether you’re making it for guests or just want to elevate your dinner, it’s the kind of dish that makes a lasting impression—especially when it’s still warm from the oven and your kitchen smells like fresh herbs and golden bread.

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