italian herb and cheese bread

2 min read 21-10-2024

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a savory taste with a hint of herbal freshness. This recipe brings a warm and cheesy aroma to your kitchen, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a snack on its own. Let's dive into the details of how to make this delicious bread!

Ingredients

To make this Italian Herb and Cheese Bread, you'll need the following ingredients:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F)
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and Italian seasoning.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Add Cheese

Incorporate Cheese: Flatten the dough slightly and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over it. Fold the dough over and knead gently until the cheese is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Let it Rise

First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Bread

Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf or divide it into rolls.
Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Bread: Bake the bread for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. The internal temperature should read 190°F (88°C) when done.
Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips for the Best Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for unique flavors.
Herb Choices: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions: This bread pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce, olive oil for dipping, or as a side with soups and salads.

Conclusion

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is not just a recipe; it's an experience that brings warmth and flavor to your dining table. With its cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results or variations on social media!

Feel free to comment below with your thoughts or any variations you've tried with this recipe!