Looking for a delicious and easy bread recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread! This flavorful bread is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of Italian herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese creates a savory and aromatic bread that is hard to resist.
- Quick prep time: With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have this bread ready in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: This bread is perfect for making ahead of time and enjoying throughout the week. It pairs well with a variety of dishes or can be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredient Notes:
- All-purpose flour: Provides the base for the bread and gives it structure.
- Active dry yeast: Helps the bread rise and creates a light and airy texture.
- Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps the dough come together.
- Salt and sugar: Enhance the flavors of the bread.
- Dried Italian herbs: Adds a delicious blend of flavors like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- Shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese: Bring a cheesy and gooey texture to the bread.
- Extra flour for dusting: Prevents sticking and helps shape the dough.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: Combine the water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Add the flour, salt, herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic.
- Proof the Dough: Let the dough rise in a greased bowl for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and let rise again.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F and create steam in the oven.
- Bake the Bread: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool before slicing and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Helpful Tips:
- Use fresh herbs for a more intense flavor.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations for a unique twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for the best results.
- Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients accurately.
- Brush the bread with olive oil before baking for a crispy crust.
Serving Suggestions:
This bread pairs beautifully with pasta dishes, soups, or as a side to a charcuterie board. Enjoy with a glass of red wine or a cup of hot soup for a cozy meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store leftover bread in a sealed bag or container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze this bread? Yes, this bread freezes well. Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, you can use fresh herbs, but adjust the quantity as fresh herbs are more potent.
- Can I omit the cheese? While the cheese adds flavor and texture, you can omit it if desired. Just adjust the seasoning to taste.
Conclusion:
Now that you have the recipe for this delicious Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish or a simple snack, this bread is sure to please. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!
Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe combines the savory flavors of Italian herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese in a delicious homemade bread loaf.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 3/4 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
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy. Add flour, salt, herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes.
- Proof the Dough: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours.
- Shape the Bread: Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and let it rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 450°F with water pan.
- Bake the Bread: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- For more flavor, add extra herbs or experiment with different cheeses.
- Pairs well with pasta, sandwiches, or olive oil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 470 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg