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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread: Savory Secrets Revealed

  • Author: Hamza

Description

Soft, cheesy, and bursting with Italian flavor, this Italian herbs and cheese bread is a bakery-style loaf you can make right at home. With a golden crust, aromatic herbs, and a rich blend of melted cheeses, it’s perfect for sandwiches, pasta nights, or simply enjoying warm with butter. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, this recipe delivers reliable, flavorful results every time. Customize it with your favorite herbs or cheese combinations for a personal twist on this classic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1¾ cups warm water about 110°F
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Extra flour for dusting

Instructions

  1. Step-by-Step Guide:
  2. Prepare the Dough:
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  4. Add the flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  5. Knead the Dough:
  6. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
  7. Proof the Dough:
  8. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  9. Shape the Bread:
  10. Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf or place it in a greased bread pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  11. Preheat the Oven:
  12. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam.
  13. Bake the Bread:
  14. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should reach 200-210°F.
  15. Cool and Serve:
  16. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!

Notes

  • Cheese options: You can swap out mozzarella or provolone for cheddar, asiago, or fontina depending on your flavor preferences. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses if possible—they don’t melt as well due to added anti-caking agents.
  • Fresh vs. dried herbs: Dried herbs are more concentrated and work well in the dough. Use fresh herbs as a garnish or fold them in carefully to avoid too much moisture.
  • Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully. Once fully cooled, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven before serving.
  • Make it gluten-free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add 1 tsp xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it. Expect a slightly denser texture.
  • For sandwich bread: Shape into a loaf pan and bake slightly longer (30–35 minutes) for thicker slices ideal for sandwiches.
  • Serving idea: Slice and toast with garlic butter, or serve with marinara or olive oil for dipping.

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Find it online: https://flavornest.net/italian-herbs-and-cheese-bread-savory-secrets-revealed/