Description
This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe combines fragrant Italian herbs and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses to create a flavorful, aromatic loaf. The dough is enriched with olive oil and garlic herb butter, rolled and baked to perfection, making it a perfect accompaniment for meals or enjoyed on its own warm.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 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
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1½ tablespoons dried Italian herb blend
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Mix and Form Dough: Add olive oil, 3 cups of all-purpose flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir together until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Knead Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, adding the remaining flour as needed to prevent sticking.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Herb Butter: While the dough rises, mix softened butter with minced garlic and dried Italian herb blend to create a flavorful herb butter.
- Shape and Add Fillings: Roll the risen dough out into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread the herb butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, and chopped fresh parsley evenly on top.
- Roll and Second Rise: Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a loaf shape. Pinch the seam to seal, place the loaf in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, and cover. Allow it to rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve the Italian herbs and cheese bread warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Add flour gradually during kneading to prevent a tough dough.
- The bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Serve warm or toasted with butter or alongside soups and salads.
- Substitute Italian herb blend with fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Italian bread, herb bread, cheese bread, homemade bread, Italian herbs, mozzarella bread, parmesan bread, garlic bread
