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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 185 reviews

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a flavorful, aromatic loaf bursting with a blend of Italian herbs, garlic, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Perfect for serving warm alongside soups, salads, or as a savory snack, this homemade bread combines soft, tender dough with a cheesy, herb-infused 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 and Filling

  • 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1½ tablespoons dried Italian herb blend
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready to use.
  2. Make Dough: Add olive oil, 3 cups of the all-purpose flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, adding the remaining flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Prepare Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and dried Italian herb blend until well combined.
  6. Shape and Fill Dough: Roll out the risen dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread the herb butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.
  7. Roll and Second Rise: Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Place the rolled dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes until puffed.
  8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes until it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped.
  9. Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. This bread is best enjoyed warm.

Notes

  • Ensure your water is warm (around 110°F) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • You can substitute the Italian herb blend with fresh herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a fresher flavor.
  • For a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam.
  • Store leftover bread wrapped in foil or an airtight container to keep it soft.
  • You can add crushed red pepper flakes to the herb butter for a spicy kick.

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

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