Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread: A Savory Delight for Every Meal

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If you love warm, cheesy bread with a burst of savory herbs, then Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is the perfect recipe for you!

This bread combines the rich flavors of mozzarella, Parmesan, and a blend of Italian herbs, creating a delicious and aromatic loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re having it alongside a bowl of soup, as a snack, or at a family dinner, this bread will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into how you can easily make this flavorful, homemade bread!

What is Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread?

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a savory homemade bread that’s packed with rich cheese and fragrant Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. The bread has a soft, fluffy texture, with a slightly crispy, cheesy crust that makes it irresistible. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, soup, or as an appetizer, it’s a versatile option that adds a touch of comfort and flavor to any meal.

This bread is often made using a simple dough base that incorporates mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The herbs infuse the dough with their aromatic flavors, giving it that authentic Italian taste. It’s perfect for anyone who loves cheesy, herby flavors in their bread.

Ingredients for Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

To make this delicious bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 ¼ tsp)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Optional: A pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor

How to Make Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Follow these simple steps to make your own Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread:

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water (110°F), sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and the Italian herbs (oregano, basil, and thyme). Pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until the dough begins to form.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour as needed.

4. Let the Dough Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough doubles in size.

5. Add the Cheese

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Gently fold in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Shape the Dough

Shape the dough into a loaf by gently rolling it out into a rectangle and folding the edges toward the center. Pinch the seams together and place the loaf in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet if you prefer a round rustic shape.

7. Let it Rise Again

Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes, or until it puffs up. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.

8. Egg Wash and Bake

Before baking, brush the top of the loaf with a beaten egg to create a glossy, golden crust. Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

9. Cool and Serve

Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese and herbs to set, making the bread easier to slice.

Customization Tips for Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

While the classic Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is delicious, you can customize it to suit your preferences:

• Add Garlic: For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or use minced fresh garlic in the dough mixture.
• Cheese Variety: Mix different cheeses like cheddar or asiago into the dough for added flavor.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to swap out the herbs based on what you have on hand. Rosemary or sage can add a unique twist.
• Olives or Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a Mediterranean touch, incorporate chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough.

How to Serve and Store the Bread

• Serving: The Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is perfect for serving alongside a hearty bowl of soup or pasta, as an appetizer with olive oil for dipping, or just as a tasty snack. It’s also great toasted with a little butter or served with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Storage: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep it fresh, you can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw it and warm it in the oven.

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread – FAQs

Conclusion

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread recipe is simple to make, yet packed with savory flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether served as a side dish, snack, or part of a festive meal, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. With its aromatic herbs and melty cheese, it adds a delicious touch to any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a homemade loaf that’s better than anything you’ll find at the store!

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