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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

This Italian herbs and cheese bread recipe is soft, fluffy, and packed with mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. Perfect homemade bread for pasta nights or cozy dinners.
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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 Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 slices
Calories 261 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or dough whisk
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Baking tray or loaf pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Oven
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water about 110°F
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter for brushing

Instructions
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: First Rise

  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Add Herbs and Cheese

  • Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down. Fold in the garlic powder, oregano, basil, parsley, and half of the cheese. Mix until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Shape the Bread

  • Shape the dough into a loaf or place it into a loaf pan. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that golden, cheesy crust.

Step 7: Second Rise

  • Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 8: Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

  • Brush the top with melted butter for extra flavor. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Keyword Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe