Name: Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 520g day-old sourdough loaf (cut into 3 cm slices, not cutting all the way through); 75g butter (softened); 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves; 2 garlic cloves (crushed); 180g Persian fetta (in oil, drained and crumbled); 1 cup grated colby cheese; 1/2 tsp sesame seeds; 1 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp roughly torn fresh curly parsley leaves

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Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, freshly baked loaf that’s brimming with cheese, fragrant herbs, and a touch of sweetness. I recently made this Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf, and I have to say, it’s become an instant hit in our household. From the golden, crispy exterior to the gooey, cheesy interior, every bite is a delightful mix of savory and sweet. Whether it’s for a weekend gathering, a quick snack, or an impressive addition to a dinner party, this loaf never fails to impress. My kids loved it, and even my husband, who’s usually not the biggest fan of “extra cheese,” couldn’t get enough of it. The combination of Persian fetta, colby cheese, fresh thyme, and honey is an unexpected yet perfect pairing. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and absolutely delicious.

If you’re on the lookout for an easy yet impressive recipe to add to your repertoire, this Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf should be at the top of your list!

Why You’ll Love This Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf

This loaded loaf is a crowd-pleaser that combines rich, creamy cheeses, aromatic thyme, and a hint of sweetness from honey, making it an irresistible option for any occasion. The bread is soft and airy, perfectly complemented by the creamy Persian fetta and melty colby cheese. The fresh thyme infuses the loaf with fragrance, while the honey drizzle at the end gives a surprising burst of sweetness, rounding out the flavors perfectly.

Not only is this loaf full of flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With just 20 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of baking, this recipe is quick enough for a weeknight treat but also impressive enough for special gatherings. Plus, it’s highly versatile – you can enjoy it as a snack, a side, or even as a meal with a simple salad.

Here are a few more reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

Minimal Ingredients: Only a handful of ingredients required, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen.

Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs to make this loaf your own.
Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can have a gourmet snack ready in no time.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:

520g day-old sourdough loaf – Day-old bread works best for this recipe as it holds up better when loaded with cheese and butter.
75g butter, softened – Butter helps create a rich, flavorful base for the filling.
2 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves – Fresh thyme adds a fragrant, herby note that complements the cheeses.

2 garlic cloves, crushed – Garlic brings depth and savory flavor to the loaf.
180g tub Persian fetta in oil, drained and crumbled – Persian fetta is a creamier, milder alternative to regular feta and adds a wonderful richness.
1 cup grated colby cheese – Colby cheese melts beautifully and adds a smooth, melty texture.

1/2 tsp sesame seeds – Sesame seeds add a lovely crunch and nuttiness to the loaf.
1 tbsp honey – The honey drizzle adds a sweet contrast that ties everything together.
2 tbsp roughly torn fresh curly parsley leaves – Parsley adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the loaf.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf:

Step 1: Prepare the Loaf

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced). Line a large baking tray with baking paper for easy cleanup. Using a sharp knife, cut the sourdough loaf diagonally into 3cm-thick slices, being careful not to cut all the way through. Once you’ve made the first set of cuts, repeat in the opposite direction to create a diamond pattern.

Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the chopped thyme and crushed garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything together until the butter is well-flavored and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaf

Place the prepared loaf on the lined baking tray. Carefully spread the butter mixture into the cuts in the bread, making sure it gets into all the nooks and crannies. Next, stuff the crumbled fetta and half of the grated colby cheese into the cuts, letting some cheese peek out from the top for a beautiful, melty effect. Sprinkle the remaining colby cheese over the top of the loaf and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Step 4: Bake the Loaf

Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted into all the crevices. Once done, let the loaf rest for 2 minutes so the cheese can set slightly.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Drizzle the warm loaf with honey and sprinkle the fresh parsley leaves over the top. This will add a burst of color and freshness, as well as balance out the richness of the cheese.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf immediately while it’s still warm. Watch as your friends and family devour it in no time!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: Approximately 275-300 kcal (varies depending on the bread and cheese used)

Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g

Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

This Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf is a versatile dish and can be served in various ways:

As a snack: Perfect for afternoon tea or a light snack.
As an appetizer: Serve it before dinner to impress your guests with a savory-sweet starter.
Alongside a salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a satisfying light meal.

For brunch: A perfect addition to any brunch spread.
As a party dish: Serve it at gatherings – it’s easy to share and perfect for sharing!

Additional Tips

Use day-old bread: Stale bread holds up better when loaded with fillings and cheese, allowing the loaf to stay intact when baked.

Mix up the cheeses: Try swapping out the colby cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites.
Add some heat: If you like a little spice, sprinkle some chili flakes into the butter mixture or add a few sliced jalapeños between the bread cuts.
Use fresh thyme: Fresh thyme has a more vibrant flavor than dried, so be sure to use it for the best taste.

Make it vegetarian: This loaf is already vegetarian, but you can make it even more hearty by adding roasted vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, into the bread.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use any rustic loaf, but sourdough gives a wonderful tangy flavor that complements the savory fillings.

2. Can I prepare the loaf in advance?
You can prepare the loaf ahead of time by cutting and stuffing it with the filling, then covering it and storing it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.

3. Can I freeze this loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled loaf before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, goat cheese, or even brie for a unique twist.

5. How can I make the loaf crispier?
For a crispier texture, toast the loaf under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

6. What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
You can use dried thyme, but use about one-third of the amount specified since dried herbs are more concentrated.

7. Is this loaf suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can use a gluten-free bread loaf to make it gluten-free. Be sure to check the other ingredients to ensure they meet dietary restrictions.

8. Can I use a different honey?
Feel free to experiment with different types of honey, like manuka or wildflower honey, for a different flavor profile.

9. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

10. Can I serve this loaf cold?
While this loaf is best served warm, you can enjoy it at room temperature if needed.

Conclusion

This Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf is the perfect balance of savory and sweet, with an irresistible combination of creamy cheese, aromatic thyme, and a hint of honey. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal or serving it at a party, it’s guaranteed to be a hit . Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf