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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

Olivia Brooks
Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread blends warm yeast dough, olive oil, dried herbs, and melted cheese into one golden loaf.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Rise Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Bread
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 to 10 slices
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons.
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Baking sheet or loaf pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning oregano, basil, thyme blend
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup warm water about 110°F / 43°C

For the Topping:

  • 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning extra for topping
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter optional, for brushing

Instructions
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This tells you the yeast is alive and ready.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

  • In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  • Add the olive oil and the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead

  • Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes, or use a stand mixer for about 6 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic. It should feel soft but not sticky.

Step 4: First Rise

  • Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape

  • Punch down the dough gently. Shape it into a loaf or oval and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Second Rise

  • Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Add Cheese & Herbs

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Brush the top lightly with melted butter if using. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the surface. Add parmesan and extra Italian seasoning.

Step 8: Bake

  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and cheese is melted and lightly crisped.

Step 9: Cool

  • Let cool for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing. I know it’s hard. But trust me.
Keyword Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread