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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread


  • Author: Chef Bella
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful Italian bread combining rich flavors of herbs and creamy cheese, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (480 grams)
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (360 ml, about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (6 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • 2 teaspoons Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) (10 grams, mixed)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100 grams)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm water and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and Italian herbs in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients: add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Incorporate the cheese by flattening the dough and folding in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
  6. Let the dough rise in a greased bowl covered with a damp cloth for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  7. Shape the bread into a round boule and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Let the shaped dough rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
  9. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  10. Score the bread with shallow slashes on the surface.
  11. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
  12. Cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • For gluten-free bread, use a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Replace mozzarella with dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
  • Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Italian bread, cheese bread, herbs bread, homemade bread