Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread
This Homemade Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is warm, cheesy, and irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, it's easy to make and delightful to serve.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
- 1¾ cups warm water (about 110°F) Hold the temperature around 110°F for best results.
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs (like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary) Feel free to mix your favorite herbs.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little extra flour if it's too sticky!
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf or place it in a greased bread pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Baking
- While it's rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam for that perfect crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should reach 200-210°F.
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
Notes
Serve the bread plain, or dip it in marinara sauce for an extra flavor kick. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Avoid skipping the proofing for a fluffier texture.