Description
This Buttery Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is golden and crisp on the outside with a soft, fluffy interior filled with aromatic herbs and melted cheese. It is perfect served alongside pasta, soups, or enjoyed warm with olive oil.
Ingredients
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet active dry yeast
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.
- Stir in the olive oil, salt, basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased loaf pan.
- Cover loosely and allow to rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Substitute provolone or sharp cheddar for a deeper cheese flavor.
Use fresh herbs instead of dried by tripling the quantity.
Add minced garlic to the dough for extra savory flavor.
Shape into rolls instead of a loaf and reduce baking time slightly.
Brush with melted butter after baking for a softer crust, or place a pan of water in the oven while baking for a crispier crust.
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze sliced for up to 2 months.
Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 8 minutes or toast lightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg
