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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 150 reviews

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a flavorful, aromatic loaf combining the rustic charm of Italian herbs with the rich, melty goodness of cheese. Perfect as a side for pastas, soups, or enjoyed on its own, this bread boasts a golden crust and tender crumb, scented with oregano, basil, and rosemary, baked to perfection for an irresistible homemade treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tablespoon Italian herb mix (dried oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Add-ins

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, Italian herb mix, and salt to evenly distribute the herbs and salt in the flour.
  3. Combine dough: Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Mix with a spoon until the dough starts to come together.
  4. Knead dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, folding in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan gradually during the last few minutes of kneading.
  5. First rise: Place the dough ball in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  6. Shape and second rise: Punch down the risen dough gently, shape it into a loaf or round boule, place it on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan, cover again, and let rise for 30-40 minutes until puffed.
  7. Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and a tap on the bottom sounds hollow.
  8. Cool and serve: Remove bread from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb to set.

Notes

  • Use warm water to activate the yeast without killing it; water temperature should be around 110°F.
  • You can substitute Italian herb mix with individual dried herbs to customize the flavor profile.
  • For a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven during the first 10 minutes of baking to create steam.
  • Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried but increase quantity to about 2 tablespoons total.
  • Store the bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: Italian bread, herb bread, cheese bread, homemade bread, savory bread

Find it online: https://cookwithyana.com/italian-herbs-and-cheese-bread-recipe/