A soft, aromatic, and cheesy Italian bread loaded with flavorful herbs—perfect as a snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to any meal.
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Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (480 grams)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (360 ml, ~110°F / 43°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon salt (6 grams)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
- 2 teaspoons Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme, 10 grams)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100 grams)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)
Optional Substitutions:
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- Use gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free bread
- Swap mozzarella for dairy-free cheese to make it vegan
- Fresh herbs can replace dried herbs for a brighter flavor
- Experiment with cheddar or feta for unique taste variations
Instructions for Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Combine warm water and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit 5–10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and Italian herbs for even flavor distribution.
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Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little flour if the dough is sticky.
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Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese
Flatten the dough slightly. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over it, then fold and knead gently until cheese is evenly mixed throughout.
Step 6: First Rise
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 7: Shape the Loaf
Punch down the dough to release air, shape into a round boule, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffed.
Step 9: Preheat Oven
Set oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a baking stone, place it inside to heat.
Step 10: Score the Bread
Make shallow slashes on the dough surface to allow expansion while baking.
Step 11: Bake
Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C). Bread should sound hollow when tapped.
Step 12: Cool
Cool on a wire rack at least 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pro Tips
- Do not skip proofing steps; they are key to fluffy bread.
- Avoid adding too much flour during kneading to prevent dense texture.
- For extra cheesy flavor, fold in more cheese during kneading.
- Fresh herbs significantly enhance aroma and taste.
Why This Recipe Works
This bread balances a soft, airy texture with the savory richness of cheese and aromatic Italian herbs. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for entertaining or family meals.
Substitutions & Variations
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist
- Try different cheeses like cheddar, feta, or gouda for flavor variety
- Make gluten-free using a flour blend
- Use vegan cheese to create a plant-based version
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days
- Freeze tightly wrapped for longer storage
- Reheat in oven or toaster; thaw frozen bread overnight in fridge first
Serving Ideas for Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread
- Serve with marinara or garlic butter for dipping
- Pair with soups, salads, or pasta dishes
- Brush with olive oil for a simple appetizer
- Slice and toast for sandwiches or bruschetta
Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if my bread is dense?
A: Ensure the yeast is active and dough has risen properly. Avoid adding too much flour.
Q: Can I prepare dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, let it rise overnight in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I swap ingredients?
A: Whole wheat flour can replace all-purpose flour. Adjust herbs to taste.
Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a flavorful, aromatic, and versatile loaf that brings a taste of Italy to your table. Perfect for snacks, dinners, or parties, this bread will impress every time.
Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- wooden spoon
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- wire cooling rack
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (480 g)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Combine the warm water and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and Italian herbs.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Flatten the dough, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top, then fold and gently knead until evenly incorporated.
- Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape into a round loaf, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffed.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Score the top of the dough with shallow slashes.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
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