Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Why Make This Recipe

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a delightful homemade treat that combines the comforting flavor of bread with the aromatic qualities of Italian herbs and rich cheese. It’s perfect for any occasion: serve it with soups, salads, or enjoy it on its own with a bit of butter. Baking this bread also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, that will make everyone eager to taste it.

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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 delicious bread is versatile. Serve it warm with a bit of butter, use it as a side for pasta or soup, or slice it for sandwiches. It also pairs well with dips, cheeses, or spreads.

How to Store Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

To store this bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just slice the bread, wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

• Ensure your water is warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
• Kneading well is crucial for a nice texture, so don’t skip this step.
• Experiment with different herbs or add garlic for extra flavor.

Variation

You can add olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the dough for an extra burst of flavor. Try using different types of cheeses, such as cheddar or feta, for a unique taste.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs! Just remember to use about three times more fresh herbs than dried.

What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough does not rise, check if the yeast is still active. You can do this by mixing yeast with warm water and sugar; it should become frothy after a few minutes.

Can I make this bread without cheese?
Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a herb-focused bread. The texture will be different, but it will still be delicious!

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