Spiral Bread with Fillings

### Step-by-Step Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. **Activate the yeast**: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about **5-10 minutes** until it becomes foamy and bubbly.
2. **Make the dough**: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
3. **Knead the dough**: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for **5-8 minutes**, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
4. **Let the dough rise**: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for **1 to 1.5 hours**, or until it has doubled in size.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Fillings
While the dough is rising, prepare your fillings. You can use one type of filling or mix and match. For example, you could have cheese and spinach, or cheese and ham—whatever suits your taste!
1. **Cheese**: Shred your cheese(s) and set aside.
2. **Vegetables**: Sauté any vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to release excess moisture, then set aside.
3. **Meats**: If using meats, chop or shred them into bite-sized pieces.

#### Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
1. **Shape the dough**: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about **12 x 18 inches**.
2. **Add the filling**: Spread your chosen filling(s) evenly over the dough. Leave a small border around the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out when you roll it up.
3. **Roll the dough**: Starting at one edge of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log or cylinder, ensuring the fillings stay in place.
4. **Shape into a spiral**: Once you’ve rolled the dough into a log, coil it into a spiral shape. You can either form a tight spiral or a loose one depending on how much filling you used.

#### Step 4: Bake the Spiral Bread
1. **Prepare for baking**: Place the spiral-shaped dough into a greased baking pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise again for about **30 minutes**.
2. **Preheat the oven**: Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
3. **Egg wash**: In a small bowl, whisk the egg and brush it over the top of the bread to give it a golden, glossy finish as it bakes.
4. **Bake**: Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for **25-30 minutes**, or until the bread is golden brown and the fillings are bubbly. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

#### Step 5: Cool and Serve
1. **Cool slightly**: Allow the spiral bread to cool for **10 minutes** before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to cut.
2. **Serve**: Slice the bread into wedges, and enjoy! Serve it warm as an appetizer, side dish, or main course with a salad or dipping sauces of your choice.

### Tips for Perfect Spiral Bread:
– **Use a variety of fillings**: Mix and match ingredients to create your perfect combination. A classic option could be cheese and spinach, but you can also experiment with ham, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or pesto.
– **Ensure the dough is not overworked**: Handle the dough gently to maintain its soft, airy texture. Over-kneading or rolling it too thin can lead to a dense bread.
– **Add some extra flair**: For added flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, or herbs on top before baking to create a flavorful crust.
– **Serve with dips**: Pair your spiral bread with marinara sauce, ranch, or even a creamy garlic dip for an extra layer of flavor.

### Why Spiral Bread with Fillings Is a Must-Try
**Spiral Bread with Fillings** is a fantastic twist on traditional bread, offering a visually striking and mouthwatering option for any meal. It combines the comforting, homemade texture of bread with savory fillings that appeal to every taste. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to your personal preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, side dish, or appetizer, this bread is sure to impress.

### Conclusion: A Showstopper for Any Meal
There’s no better way to bring excitement to your table than with **Spiral Bread with Fillings**. With its beautifully swirled appearance, deliciously soft dough, and endless filling possibilities, it’s a versatile recipe that will wow your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for sharing at gatherings, family meals, or as a unique addition to your bread basket, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.

So, roll up your sleeves, get creative with your fillings, and enjoy a slice of this stunning spiral bread today!