Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Why Make This Recipe

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a delightful addition to any meal. It’s soft, flavorful, and has a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen. This bread pairs well with soups, salads, or can be enjoyed on its own. Making your own bread at home can be a rewarding experience, and it allows you to control the ingredients.

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How to Make Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast)
• 1¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs (like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra flour for dusting

Directions:

Step-by-Step Guide:

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Knead the Dough:
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.

Proof the Dough:
4. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Shape the Bread:
5. Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf or place it in a greased bread pan. Cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven:
6. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam.

Bake the Bread:
7. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The internal temperature should reach 200-210°F.

Cool and Serve:
8. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

This bread is perfect to serve alongside your favorite pasta dishes, soups, or salads. You can also toast slices and use them for sandwiches or enjoy them with butter or olive oil.

How to Store Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Store the bread in an airtight container or a zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat it in the oven.

Tips to Make Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

• Use warm water, not hot, to help the yeast activate without killing it.
• Make sure to knead the dough properly for the best texture.
• If you want a crustier bread, bake it longer or use a baking stone.

Variation

You can add other cheeses, such as cheddar or feta, or try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a different flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs! Just use about three times the amount as dried.

2. What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure to check the expiration date of your yeast and use warm water to activate it.

3. Can I make this bread in a bread machine?
Yes, you can use a bread machine. Follow your machine’s instructions for the best results, adjusting the ingredient amounts if needed.

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