If you are craving a show-stopping snack or a delightful appetizer that combines savory, herbaceous, and sweet notes, the Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This irresistible sourdough creation is beautifully stuffed with creamy Persian fetta, fragrant fresh thyme, and melting colby cheese, then finished with a luscious drizzle of honey that creates a perfect balance. Each bite invites you to savor the crispy crust, the gooey interior, and that subtle hint of garlic and herbs, making it a crowd-pleaser whether for casual gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines with just a handful of high-quality ingredients that are simple yet indispensable to achieving its signature taste and texture. Each component plays a crucial role: the day-old sourdough provides the perfect sturdy base, the herbs and garlic infuse aromatics, while the cheeses bring richness and gooeyness, all topped with a sweet touch from honey.
- 520g day-old sourdough loaf: Sturdy with a slightly stale texture, perfect for holding fillings without becoming soggy.
- 75g butter (softened): Adds a creamy richness and helps the herbs and garlic meld beautifully into the bread.
- 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves: Imparts a fresh, earthy aroma that complements the cheeses wonderfully.
- 2 garlic cloves (crushed): Provides a subtle sharpness that elevates the overall flavor.
- 180g Persian fetta (in oil, drained and crumbled): Brings a tangy, creamy punch that’s key to the dish’s character.
- 1 cup grated colby cheese: Melts superbly to create gooey pockets of cheesy goodness mixed with the fetta.
- 1/2 tsp sesame seeds: Adds a gentle nutty crunch and a lovely visual appeal.
- 1 tbsp honey: The secret sweet finish that beautifully contrasts the savory flavors.
- 2 tbsp roughly torn fresh curly parsley leaves: Adds freshness and a burst of green color to brighten the dish.
How to Make Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Loaf
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (or 180°C if using a fan-forced oven) and lining a large baking tray with baking paper. Take your sourdough loaf, ideally day-old so it holds up well, and slice it diagonally about 3 cm apart creating a diamond pattern without cutting all the way through. This lattice of cuts is the perfect nooks and crannies to pack with glorious fillings later.
Step 2: Mix the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the freshly chopped thyme leaves and crushed garlic cloves. Season this mixture lightly with salt and pepper to taste. This butter will infuse the bread with herbal and garlicky richness when baked, making every bite fragrant and luscious.
Step 3: Stuff and Top the Loaf
Place the scored loaf onto the prepared baking tray. Carefully spread the thyme garlic butter into all the cuts, making sure every slice gets a generous coating. Next, stuff the crumbled Persian fetta and half of the grated colby cheese into the cuts, allowing the cheese to peek out enticingly. To finish, sprinkle the remaining colby cheese evenly over the top and scatter sesame seeds for a subtle crunch and beautiful golden color while baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Watch closely for the moment when the bread edges turn golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted into irresistibly gooey pockets nestled between the slices. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will make waiting near impossible!
Step 5: The Final Touches
Once out of the oven, drizzle the warm loaf generously with honey, letting the sweetness mingle with the savory layers. Sprinkle fresh torn curly parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbal lift. Allow the loaf to rest for about 2 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly before serving.
How to Serve Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf even more vibrant, consider sprinkling extra fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick while a few whole sesame seeds enhance both texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This lovable loaded loaf pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp salads such as a simple arugula and lemon vinaigrette or a Mediterranean tomato and cucumber salad. For heartier meals, serve alongside grilled vegetables or a warm bowl of soup to provide comforting contrast to the cheesy, herby bread.
Creative Ways to Present
Make this dish the star at your next get-together by serving it on a rustic wooden board surrounded by bowls of olives, marinated artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Alternatively, slice it into individual portions and wrap each in parchment with a sprig of thyme for a charming grab-and-go snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be hard!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day to keep the crust somewhat crisp. For up to two days, refrigeration is best, though the bread will lose some crunch.
Freezing
This loaded loaf freezes well before baking. After stuffing and topping with cheese and seeds, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
Reheating
To revive the loaf’s crispy exterior and gooey interior, reheat it in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust nice and crunchy and the cheese perfectly melty.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of fetta?
Absolutely! While Persian fetta provides a creamy and tangy bite, you can substitute with traditional feta or even goat cheese for a similar rich flavor. Just make sure it’s crumbly and not too wet to avoid soggy bread.
Is fresh thyme essential or can I use dried thyme?
Fresh thyme is preferred because of its vibrant aroma and texture, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch. Use about a third of the amount when using dried to prevent overpowering the other flavors.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
You can substitute the sourdough loaf with a gluten-free bread loaf, but keep in mind the texture and baking time might vary slightly. Choose a sturdy gluten-free bread to hold the fillings well.
How spicy is this loaded loaf?
This recipe is naturally mild and focuses on herbaceous, savory, and sweet flavors. You can add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce on top if you enjoy a bit of heat.
What is the best way to cut and serve the loaf?
Since the loaf is pre-sliced into a diamond pattern but not fully cut through, serve it by gently pulling apart the pieces with your hands or use a knife to slice through if needed. This keeps the filling intact and makes for a fun, shareable presentation.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf Recipe—its blend of flavors and textures makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or just craving a comforting snack, this loaf delivers in every delightful way. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This Fetta, Thyme, and Honey Loaded Loaf is a delightful sourdough bread recipe bursting with layers of creamy Persian fetta, aromatic thyme, garlic butter, gooey Colby cheese, and a sweet finish of honey. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or savory snack, this baked loaf features a golden, crispy crust complemented by fresh parsley and sesame seeds for added texture and freshness.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter Mixture
- 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)
Cheeses and Toppings
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Loaf: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced) and line a large baking tray with baking paper. Cut the sourdough loaf diagonally into 3 cm thick slices without cutting all the way through, then make diagonal cuts in the opposite direction to create a diamond pattern.
- Make Garlic Thyme Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped fresh thyme, and crushed garlic cloves. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste and mix thoroughly.
- Stuff the Loaf: Place the loaf on the prepared baking tray. Spread the garlic thyme butter mixture into all the cuts of the bread, ensuring an even distribution. Stuff the crumbled Persian fetta and half of the grated Colby cheese into the cuts so the cheese peeks out from the top. Then sprinkle the remaining grated Colby cheese and sesame seeds evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has completely melted and is bubbling.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the loaf from the oven. Drizzle it with honey and sprinkle the roughly torn fresh curly parsley leaves over the top. Allow it to rest for 2 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the loaf cool slightly for optimal taste.
Notes
- For best results, use a day-old sourdough loaf as it holds its structure better when sliced and stuffed.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference; you can add extra for a more pronounced flavor.
- Use good quality Persian fetta that is drained well to avoid sogginess inside the loaf.
- If Persian fetta is unavailable, a similar soft salty cheese can be substituted.
- Serve warm for the best gooey and crispy experience.
