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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 101 reviews

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a flavorful, soft loaf infused with garlic, a blend of dried Italian herbs, and topped with a delicious mix of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Perfect as a warm side for dinner or as a savory snack, this homemade bread combines classic Italian flavors in a beautifully baked, golden crust loaf.

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 Topping

  • 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1½ tablespoons dried Italian herb blend

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
  2. Form the dough: Add olive oil, 3 cups of the all-purpose flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then transfer to a floured surface.
  3. Knead the dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add the remaining flour as needed to prevent sticking.
  4. First rise: Place the kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.
  5. Prepare herb butter: While the dough rises, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and the dried Italian herb blend until well combined.
  6. Shape and layer: Roll the risen dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread the herb butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with mozzarella, parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
  7. Roll and second rise: Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log shape, pinch the seam to seal, and place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes.
  8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  9. Serve: Let the bread cool slightly, then serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Ensure the water temperature is around 110°F to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • You can substitute mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses if preferred.
  • For a dairy-free option, replace butter with a plant-based alternative and omit cheese or use vegan cheese.
  • This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
  • Adding fresh minced herbs along with dried herbs can enhance the flavor further.

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

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