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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 114 reviews

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a flavorful, aromatic loaf featuring a delightful blend of Italian herbs, garlic, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a savory side or a warm snack, this bread combines soft, tender dough with a rich herb butter and cheese filling.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

Herb Butter Mixture

  • 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1½ tablespoons dried Italian herb blend

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast and Make Dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated. Then add olive oil, 3 cups of flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add the remaining flour as needed to prevent sticking and to reach the right consistency.
  3. First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare Herb Butter: While the dough is rising, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and dried Italian herbs until well combined to create a flavorful herb butter.
  5. Shape and Fill Dough: Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread the herb butter mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley across the top.
  6. Roll and Second Rise: Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a loaf and pinch the seam to seal. Place the rolled loaf seam side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until slightly puffed.
  7. Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool slightly, and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Ensure the water is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast; around 110°F is ideal.
  • Kneading is essential for gluten development, giving the bread structure and chew.
  • Use fresh yeast for best rising results.
  • The bread is best eaten warm but can be stored wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
  • Substitute Italian herb blend with a mix of basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme if unavailable.
  • For a crispier crust, bake on a baking stone or place a pan of water in the oven to create steam.

Keywords: Italian bread, herb bread, garlic cheese bread, mozzarella bread, parmesan bread, homemade bread, savory bread

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