Print

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 92 reviews

This Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a flavorful, aromatic loaf loaded with a blend of Italian herbs, garlic, and gooey melted cheeses. Perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or as a savory snack, this homemade bread combines the best of traditional bread-making with rich Italian flavors. Its soft, fluffy crumb and golden crust make it an irresistible addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 3 ½ cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (105°F–110°F)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for brushing)

Flavorings and Cheese

  • 1 tbsp Italian herb blend (dried oregano, basil, thyme, parsley)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water (between 105°F and 110°F), sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for 5–7 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
  2. Mix the dough: Add olive oil, salt, and half of the bread flour to the yeast mixture. Stir gently to combine the ingredients. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a soft dough forms that is slightly tacky but manageable.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it vigorously for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Proper kneading develops the gluten for a nice texture.
  4. First rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free location for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Prepare for cheese and garlic layering: Punch down the risen dough to release air, then roll it out into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Evenly sprinkle the minced garlic and both the shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses over the dough’s surface.
  6. Shape the loaf: Carefully roll the dough up tightly in a jelly-roll style, tucking the ends underneath to seal. Place the roll seam-side down into a greased loaf pan, preparing it for the final rise.
  7. Second rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30–40 minutes until it becomes puffy. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
  8. Prepare for baking: Before baking, brush the top of the loaf with olive oil to help achieve a golden crust. Sprinkle additional Italian herb blend and extra cheese on top if desired for enhanced flavor and texture.
  9. Bake the bread: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when lightly tapped, indicating it’s fully baked inside.
  10. Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly in the pan, then remove it and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Ensure your water temperature for activating yeast is between 105°F and 110°F to avoid killing the yeast.
  • To check if the bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.
  • Feel free to substitute Italian herb blend with fresh herbs if available, but reduce the quantity by half as fresh herbs are more potent.
  • For a crustier loaf, place a pan of water in the oven during baking to create steam.
  • This bread is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for up to a month.

Keywords: Italian herb bread, cheese bread, homemade bread, Italian bread recipe, garlic cheese bread, savory bread loaf

Find it online: https://victoriablair.com/italian-herb-and-cheese-bread-recipe/