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Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 61 reviews

This Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread combines a soft, fluffy dough with aromatic Italian herbs, minced garlic, and a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses. Perfectly baked to a golden crust, this flavorful bread is ideal for sandwiches or as a savory side to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 3 ½ cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (105°F–110°F)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for brushing)

Herbs and Cheese

  • 1 tbsp Italian herb blend (dried oregano, basil, thyme, parsley)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Garnish

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5–7 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix Dough: Add olive oil, salt, and half of the bread flour to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine, then gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Prepare Filling: Punch down the dough and shape it into a rectangle. Evenly sprinkle minced garlic, mozzarella, and cheddar cheeses over the dough surface.
  6. Shape Loaf: Roll up the dough jelly-roll style, tucking the ends in securely. Place the roll seam-side down into a greased loaf pan.
  7. Second Rise: Cover and let the dough rise for 30–40 minutes until puffy. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Prepare for Baking: Brush the loaf with olive oil and sprinkle the top with the Italian herb blend and extra cheese if desired.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Let the bread cool slightly, then garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

  • Warm water should be between 105°F and 110°F to effectively activate the yeast without killing it.
  • If you prefer a softer crust, brush the loaf with olive oil immediately after baking while it’s still warm.
  • You can substitute mozzarella and cheddar cheeses with your favorite melting cheeses if desired.
  • For a more intense garlic flavor, sauté the minced garlic lightly before adding it to the dough.
  • This bread pairs excellently with soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches.

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

Find it online: https://platedandproud.com/italian-herb-and-cheese-bread-recipe/