Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

If you have ever wanted to bake a flavorful, fragrant loaf that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas, this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe is your new best friend. Combining the earthy warmth of Italian herbs with the ooey-gooey goodness of cheese, this homemade bread is not just a treat but a celebration of savory comfort. Whether you’re serving it alongside a meal or enjoying it as a snack, it delivers that perfect balance of crispy crust and tender inside that makes every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in crafting that perfect loaf. From the all-purpose flour that creates the structure, to the unique blend of Italian seasoning and garlic powder that flavors every crumb, these essentials come together effortlessly to give you bakery-quality bread at home.

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your bread’s texture and structure, making it tender yet sturdy.
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): The magical ingredient that makes your bread rise beautifully and get that airy softness.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps control the yeast activity for perfect dough consistency.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that gives this bread its signature Italian flair.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Layers in a gentle garlicky aroma without overpowering the mix.
• 1 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together for kneading.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the crumb soft and moist.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the bread, giving pockets of gooey, creamy indulgence.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty contrast that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness and pops of green color for appeal.

How to Make Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing together the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, sugar, salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a large bowl. Ensuring everything is well incorporated at this stage builds a flavor-packed base for your dough.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, pour warm water and olive oil into the dry mixture. Use a wooden spoon or stand mixer to stir until a sticky dough forms. This step is key to activating the yeast and marrying all the flavors together.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer your dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll want it smooth and elastic—a texture that indicates the gluten has developed perfectly to give your bread a wonderful chew.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and set it somewhere warm for about 1 hour. The dough will double in size, a sure sign your yeast is doing its job.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

While the dough is rising, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures your bread bakes evenly with a golden crust.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Herbs

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release trapped air. Fold in the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh parsley if you’re using it. This step infuses every bite with cheesy goodness and herbaceous notes.

Step 7: Shape the Loaf

Shape your dough into a loaf and lay it onto a greased baking sheet or a loaf pan if you want a more structured shape. This helps the bread hold its form while baking.

Step 8: Second Rest

Let the loaf rest uncovered for 10-15 minutes. This final rise gives the bread a bit more lift so your crust will be lovely and light.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. This signals the bread is perfectly baked inside.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Remove your loaf from the oven and allow it to cool for several minutes before slicing. Letting the bread rest lets the cheese inside set slightly, ensuring each slice keeps its cheesy pockets intact.

How to Serve Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or a light brush of garlic butter right after baking takes this already incredible bread to the next level. Fresh chopped parsley or basil also adds a vibrant, fresh finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with soups, especially tomato basil or minestrone, as well as with hearty pasta dishes. It’s also a fantastic partner to antipasto platters loaded with olives, meats, and cheeses.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice this loaf thick and serve it as a base for bruschetta topped with juicy tomatoes and basil, or use it to make gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. You can even transform it into garlic bread by applying butter mixed with garlic and herbs and broiling briefly for a crispy, golden finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It will stay good for about 2-3 days at room temperature, perfect for enjoying over a couple of meals.

Freezing

This bread freezes well, so slice it before freezing to make pulling out just what you need quick and easy. Wrap the slices in parchment and foil or store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at low heat to bring back that crispy crust while warming the cheesy interior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread chewy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of Italian seasoning?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme can be fantastic substitutes. Use about 1 tablespoon of mixed fresh herbs to replace the dried Italian seasoning, but remember fresh herbs are more delicate, so fold them in gently.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for their melting qualities and flavor profiles, but you can experiment with cheddar, provolone, or even fontina. Just pick cheeses that melt well and complement Italian herbs.

Is it okay to use warm water instead of hot water when activating yeast?

Yes, warm water (around 105°F to 110°F) is perfect for activating yeast. Too hot and you risk killing the yeast, too cold and it won’t wake up properly. Lukewarm water ensures a good rise.

Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?

Definitely! While a stand mixer makes kneading easier, you can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface. Just be prepared to use some elbow grease for those 5-7 minutes of kneading.

What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?

If your dough doesn’t double in size after 1 hour, it might be due to inactive yeast or temperature issues. Try placing the dough in a warmer spot, and always check the expiration date on your yeast before starting.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about baking your own bread, especially one as rich in flavor and aroma as this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe. It invites warmth, comfort, and a touch of homemade magic to your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how a handful of simple ingredients transform into a loaf that’s just bursting with cheesy, herby goodness. Happy baking!

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