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Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

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Warm, flavorful Italian Herb and Cheese Bread—soft and fluffy inside, golden and crispy outside, filled with aromatic herbs and gooey melted cheese. Ideal as a savory side or snack.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (10–12 slices)

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm water or milk (110°F)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar or honey
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary)
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped herbs (parsley, chives) (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan or Asiago cheese
  • 1 beaten egg or additional olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by mixing warm water or milk with sugar or honey and yeast. Let sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, Italian seasoning, and optional fresh herbs.
  3. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil or butter. Stir to form a rough dough.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface or in a stand mixer for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Shape into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle.
  7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the surface. Roll or fold the dough to incorporate the cheese.
  8. Shape into a loaf or braid and place into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
  9. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  10. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top with beaten egg or olive oil.
  11. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
  12. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Add roasted garlic or shallots for deeper flavor.
  • Use fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme instead of dried seasoning for brightness.
  • Include cured meats like pepperoni or prosciutto for a savory twist.
  • Mix cheeses for richer taste—try Fontina, Gouda, or smoked provolone.
  • Author: liinaa
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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